Propane Problem

[Captain Bago]

Recently I topped off my propane tank then drove off into the sunset. When I arrived at my campsite, though, I discovered that none of my propane appliances were working. My stove burners would light but then they’d peter out. My hot water heater would fire up but then I’d get a “Pilot Out” light. Fridge would start working in propane mode then stop. Generator just died outright and wouldn’t re-start.

I was thinking “air in the tank” so the next (coffee-less ) morning I had a propane tech look at it but then everything started working normally again.

Any theories as to what happened? Until I figure it out I’ll worry that it’ll happen again and I don’t want to go to prison. Going without coffee makes me homicidal

Thanks in advance for saving someone’s life!

[Morich]

I might have asked if he turned the main valve back open again!

[Captain Bago]

Ha! Yes, I did...but I have to admit that it wasn’t my first thought! :-D

[Bones2003]

That sounds like symptoms of a problem with the excess flow valve which is a safety device that is supposed to cut off the flow of propane if there is a leak. Maybe it just took awhile to stabilize after the refill?

[Captain Bago]

I think you might be right...Thanks!

[BobC]

I know that if I leave my BBQ burners on at home and close my propane valve, the next time I turn it on, there's no gas flow until I shut the main valve and all the burners before re-opening. This is consistent with Bones2003's post.