2 things you need to know about filling these tanks. 1, the gas or air you are venting is propane gas as has been stated. Under pressure that gas will return to a liquid or if it is cooled, it will condense. Warming the big tank increases the psi of that tank, therefore increasing the psi going into the small tank. Also, keeping the small tank cold, immersing in a bucket of ice will keep small tank cold and will aid the filling by keeping the temp lower. 2, make sure you do not overfill the small tank. Fill it while on a scale. That is how they fill the big tank, on a scale. If you overfill the small tank, set it in the sun by accident, it is subject to blowing up. It needs that small space in the tank to allow for expansion and contraction.
YES...and at least wear gloves to protect your hand and safety glasses if the wind blow it in your eyes! The temperature can cause great damage to the human body?
Just dont use 1lbers period ,buy a converter hose that hooks up to 20-40 lbers .just dont buy a mr buddy hose, they have an oil in it and plugs up the heater ,so ive heard
I'm not racist or anything, BUT... it's helpful to see a Brother teaching the Sisters (like me) how to be self sufficient. Thank you for your easy-to-understand video.
Your fill-hose is absolute genius and a great vid. In all honesty, what I typically do is use the 1LB tank till completely empty...then use a little allen key wrench to vent what is left for 0 internal pressure....weigh the canister...then fill with 16 oz of LP. Saves a ton of money.
I'm pretty sure these tanks don't have the Allen key. I'm thinking your referring to the flame king refillable ones. Which are designed to be refilled.
I'm not referring to some sort of allen key fitting. I'm referring to the pressure release fitting to the side of the center mounted main fill. You use a little allen key to depress the pressure release valve to vent tank.@@JohnCorey-s6p
@@frankcastle5294 the pressure release is a pull pin, not a push pin. The allen key works in the main seal/valve. Thats the one you want to be venting anyway. If it doesnt seal you can screw on a brass cap or screw the bottle up to whatever has a shutoff valve. If that vent cap doesnt seal, ...game over for that bottle and 1 lb of propane
Don't know if you read the comments, but Amazon has brass caps with seals for the one pound cans. Sometimes, after they are refilled a few times, the seals in the cans will "seep" even though they are still good to use. They work great for storage and they protect the threads from dirt or damage. Also, a spray bottle with a little dish soap and water to spray the valve to see if the seal has been compromised after filling.
Always a good idea to use the soap and water in a spray bottle on your propane connections to your propane equipment also! Be sure your connections aren’t leaking either or a connection not tight enough!
Have several buddy Heaters , have stoves and lanterns and they are very much used. My furnace went out several years ago and my Big Buddy that was supposed to be temporary is still pulling duty by heating 1500 sq ft of the house with a 12 ft.hose connected to a 20 lb tank . Been filling the 1 pounders for many years now and have tried most every method. I have settled on NOT Bleeding off gas , tanks will only fill to 3/4 but never worry with overfill , the tough buddy will only run 3 hours plus instead of 5.4 hrs but tanks are changed quickly. I try not to refill the 1lb bottles more than 20 times before trashing them , I have many campgrounds near my home and I can collect all that I need that has never been refilled and thrown away. Make no mistake about it, the 1lb bottles will start leaking if you keep on refilling them. I have my 20 lb tanks filled for $15.00 each , that's .75 cents a lb ......75 cents a full 1lb bottles . It's a small chore to fill the needed 1lb bottles but with a little common sense and safety, it is very much worth the money that has been saved or spent on other things needed that are run off propane !
Thank you for the thoughts. I have a Colman stove single burner that uses the 1 lbs bottle. I just purchased the big buddy , hose and filter for using with the 20 lb. tank . Now I can just use the 20 lb tank to refill the little one. I already have two new little tanks and definitely will be looking for replacements at campgrounds where they most likely are not re used as well. Also I'll spend the time changing out these tanks when they are empty instead of unscrewing them at refill and releasing gas which is a money saver. Thanks.
It’s $21 to refill a 20# tank around here. The ones you can buy pre-filled at the convenience stores, etc. are filled to only 14#. I watched them over the years go from 20#, to 17#, to 15# to now 14# while the price has steadily increased.
@@JT_70 Forget the already filled tanks because they are much more even if they are full. When having them filled you know its full because they fill it until the liquid fuel starts coming out the bleeder valve. Evey tank has the empty weight stamped on the tank so add 20 lbs for a 20 pounder and thats what your tank should weigh when filled , set it or hang it on what scales you have. 20 pound tanks have gone up a dollar , $ 16.00 to be filled but if they went up to $21.00 I would still be using one as a donor tank to fill my 1lb bottles which would cost $1.05 ea to refill , saving me lots of money . I don,t believe in being" a penny wise and a pound foolish "......because its hundreds of dollars , I take several tanks to be refilled at a time but If I only had one tank and the time I certainly would have it filled. The lives of my family members have been made better because of propane gas , loss of power after a snow storm for 14 days is just one example of dozens of times the power has gone down, our camping ,recreation and decades use on construction jobs.Most of my life I usually have had 250 to 500 gallon tanks at my homes and had what was adequate for job sites with heaters fork lifts ,golf carts etc but for now ........I am enjoying small heaters, stoves, ranges and ovens, lanterns and all that will run on propane .....even a generator to keep fridge and freezers going when the power goes out. Propane is safe, clean and easy to store if your blessed to live out of the cities. PS I don,t burn gas logs in a Fire Place and don,t burn gas in my grill ........Wood and Charcoal !
@@randyrussell6246 I wish my generator was propane. I may look into a propane conversion kit as I always keep a couple of full 20# bottles, which is much safer than storing 6 5gal plastic jugs of gasoline in my attached garage. I miss having a wood burning fireplace, especially when power goes out in the winter. One of the fireplaces in my last home and in my home before that (different states) was wood burning. If I move again or build I want a wood burning fireplace again.
If you use a pair of tiny clamp type scissors and pull up on the little pin in the side hole while filling, and wait till the white spray comes out, you don't have to keep stopping to purge the system. That is how you purge the bottle without having to disconnect it repeatedly.
The hose is definitely better than the brass one piece adapters. The "air" you're letting out is gas propane. The "white" is liquid propane. When filling you have to let out some of the gas to get the liquid in. The easiest way to vent the gas is to use curved jaw hemostats. Clip them onto the shrader valve stem (the other little hole on the top of the tank) and rotate the bottle where the shrader valve is to the top. When the sound of flowing gas decreases, pull out on the valve stem to let some of the gas out. When you start getting little spits of liquid coming out of the shrader valve you know your tank is full. Fast and easy without a lot of screwing on and off.
You don’t have to let the gas out to get the liquid in. Letting the gas out drops the pressure rapidly, chilling the tank further and drops the pressure so the liquid from the larger tank will transfer. Its the same as filling CO2 for paintball guns.
@@Combat_Pyro Propane in gas form takes more space than liquid. While venting the canister does cool the tank which is good, the gas still needs to be replaced with liquid. Bulk CO2 tanks have a diptube which bring liquid from the bottom of the tank as the gas at the top pushes it down as it expands. 20# propane bottles do not have diptubes and is the reason you invert them when you want liquid out. Gas has to come out in order for liquid to go in.
Thanks for the link for the hose, I may get that. I freeze the 1-lb'ers, then just fill once. I get a reliable 11-15 oz. fill, and this is enough for me, seems safest, and I don't mess with bleeding off air etc. Cheers
This is so cool... My son in Albuquerque NM has a Humvee ... (big motor scooter) ... LOL I am so glad to have come across your video... I am 68 years old and am getting ready to live in my 1972 Vintage Tiny Travel Trailer (not my first rodeo)... I used to "Flip" RVs, and Travel Trailers... finished 2 this year... keeping the VT3 (Vintage Tiny Travel Trailer) ... when I get through with it it will be a VT4 (Vintage Tiny Travel Trailer Transformer) LOL ... Moving back to Albuquerque, to be closer to family, and thought why not use this VT3 until I find what I want and where I want to be... So exciting... I should use my Son's Humvee to pull my VT3 LOL.... I"d be a bada$$ grandmother... LOL Thank you for sharing this great idea... saves a lot of money... "Praise the Lord"
This is some priceless info you put on here.I live in Michigan and I use a Little Buddy heater.The bottles are building up so I googled could 1lb tanks be refilled and it said absolutely not,it was dangerous,and take them to a landfill for disposal.I am so glad I came across your channel. Great info. I was thinking about using them for target practice also,but I won't be doing it now.Propane is a little bit cheaper in the warmer months as there is not as much demand. So I will probably do my refills in September. Thanks again.
There is a relief value on the top side ,leave that value up and you can release the air as you fill it without unscrewing, until it is full,great video, have a miracle filled day
I'm so thankful I saw this. I bought some of these for my Mr buddy heater a couple years ago. They cost $2.97 I went to get a few but they were 7.97 so I didn't get any at Walmart. I was going to check prices at other stores. But you have solved my problem. Thank you.
I just bought a heater and six cans of propane and was thinking, "what a shame all those cans are just gonna...." Anyway I came in to get a quick run through on using the heater and linked to this video. Thanks heaps from a Canuck trying to stay warm in a camper. You sir are a scholar and a gentleman. André
That’s great if your using the heater in a semi-permanent location but not if your carrying it out for hunting. It’s far more convenient to carry the small tank in a backpack and carry they heater then set it up in hunting blind.
@@dwightvoeks9970 buy the adaptor hose with a filter from buddy. They don't have oil residue like other cheap brands that clog up the heater. It's a little more pricy but I've been doing this for a very long time still haven't clogged my big buddy and I've gone through a lot of refilled 20lbs running through mine.
Eric, I have read many of your comments, and would like to add just a couple. #1). Check DOT laws befor moving them. Somewhere I read that DOT says you may not transport a refilled disposable tank. #2). There is dirt in the larger tanks and when you turn the big tank upside down to get the liquid to flow, the dirt gets into the small tank. I don't know how it gets into the orifice of the appliance but it does. I've had to clean it out a several times. Somewhere I heard of an inline filter, so be aware. #3). When you overfill the small tank, you can get into a hydraulic pressure issue. The relief valve is meant to vent gas not liquid, so keep in a ventilated area at least until you know it's not overfilled. #4). When overfilled I have trouble with some appliances. The liquid gets into the needle valves and cools it right down which shrinks it and slows the delivery. Then if I open it more I get a huge surge of gas and the flames go over a foot high. #5). I refill for $ savings. So I check around and find the lowest price place. I usually get my 20 Lb tanks refilled at a hardware store where they give me the full amount. Blue Rhino only gives you 15 Lbs, but the tank can hold 20#. That's a 25% savings right there. Then, if you can get the 20 Lbs for 20$, you can fill the little cans for $1 each. Even at Walmart the 1 pound disposable is over $5 apiece. And finally, I just put my 1 pounder on the 20 and invert it for over night. The next day it's always overfull, but I know it is and I deal with it as such. I have seen where some guys will let out a little gas to cool the tank off, which allows more liquid to enter, I just don't like wasting the gas letting it out to reduce the pressure either during filling or when I get around to using it. I use a 1 pound tank every day to cook with, so I'm not just shooting my mouth off. OK, Fine Business, just be smart about it. ben/ michigan
Just did this. Works well!. Doing a couple of quick Letting the residual gas out of the green can helps to add weight in liquid and expanding that gas gets that can so cold you feel like your hands just got burned . No need to freeze those little green bottles. I used a very small Philip head screwdriver to relieve the gas. Similar to letting air out of a tire, it works great…so…thanks so much for your demonstration! you really helped me,and I am filling up 7 of my empties..👍
I would put those 1lb tanks in the freezer before filling and I got substantially more liquid gas in the bottle than room temperature tanks. "Tanks" for your time making this video. I'll look for that hose for sure. 👍😁
Awesome Thanks! HERE IS A LINK TO THE HOSE: www.amazon.com/dp/B087BCNWK3/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_B9APRS4CCC82T65VR6BS?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=ericpettway-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=14a8265b284c33c85fdac4ee04232db0&camp=1789&creative=9325
If you smelt any metals you can use those empty 1lb r's for a single use crucible. You can really get about 5-10 melts out of one depending upon thickness and type of metal you are melting. I have seen people use empty fire extinguishers as well but these are a perfect size for my furnace with minimal work and cutting.
This was helpful as the small bottles are in high demand. FYI Propane a.k.a R-290 is and was used as a refrigerant in the 1920's until they found out it explodes! Ha, lol. In cool or cold weather it is easy to overfill the bottles, the same bottle will be overfilled in warm to hot weather. Your digital scale is a must! Thanks for a informative video. 40 years hvac trade, 27 years Nevada State Contractor C-21 License.
Just FYI, an empty 1 lb tank weighs approximately 14 ounces empty, adding 16 ounces of propane to it makes it about 30 ounces total. I would be afraid to overfill one of them since they’re rated for 16 ounces. Second, I love how you added that hose and valve, looks much easier and quicker 👍🏻 I just refilled 8 canisters the old fashion way. Gotta rig me up a hose. With the hose, one could actually weigh it as filling to get it full but not overfull. Just FYI I just had a 20 lb tank refilled and it cost $12.50 So 12.50 divided by 20 is about .62 per 1 lb refill. It makes sense to refill if very careful. Also, at walmart just two 1 lb canisters cost $9.99 Thanks for video and idea, but don’t overfill 👍🏻
Thank you for a great video. I was always told they were non-refillable and had to be taken to a site for proper disposal. This will save me hundreds per year.
Important to note that the valve on those little bottles tends to leak, especially after a few refills. Hit it with a little silicone spray lube and listen to make sure it's not leaking before storing. Always store with the black plastic cap on as well.
WOW! Outstanding! Thank you for this. I hate throwing out the canisters and then trying to find new ones to buy. Sometimes I just can't find them at all. This solves both problems and saves me money as well. I can't thank you enough.
I watched a guy use a pair of curved forceps to grab a hold of the tiny relief valve stem on top of the bottle and "pull up" on it to relieve air as it's filling so you don't have to unscrew and screw or have to freeze the bottle. Good Stuff...Thanks I love that hose set-up, that's the ticket!
Another guy says he doesn't like doing that because eventually that little valve needle starts to leak. Not sure how many times you can get away with using it. I also have a hose for my buddy heater that goes to the big tanks, but you don't want to be hauling a big tank around inside your vehicle in certain situations. I atleast strap it tightly to a seat.
If you have the space, or weight is not an issue, it may be safer and easier just to connect the large tank to the heater. I have a couple hoses with regulators that do the trick. There is also a 5lb tank available that may be a good compromise. Also as an extra precaution, you might fill the tanks while they are on the scale so you don't you don't over fill the 1 pound of propane.
No don't i had tried that the hose breaks down and clogs the heater I managed to save mine in time it would spit fire then o went back to the lill tanks and took about 5 tanks to stop I read lots of same comments after I was baffled on my issue
The key to this method is having a regulator. If you connect the heater directly to the tank with a hose the excess pressure from the tank will break down oils and chemicals in the hose resulting in a clear gell that will make it's way into the gas supply line of the heater causing it to no longer function. They are repairable by tearing down the heater to find the clogged supply lines, cleaning them with acetone or brake cleaner and blowing them out with air pressure. Reassemble and you're good to go.
Man....I had my buddy heater for a yr...learning so much about it...With some education about the heater....Nobody should be could or hungry...Awesome video...😎🙏
Good information, after being without power for days several years ago i now have taken care ro ensure that i have heat and light and cooking ability. The propane heater and refill is important. I bought a iwatani butane stove as well.
If you're having an issue getting them full just set the little tanks in the fridge for a few minutes heat expands cold contracts but be careful you can very easily get way too much in them
⁉️ This man showed something very important !!! Weight ur tank ! I had 1 bust open on its own . It ignited from my natural gas burners n busted out every window n my 2 story home except the bathroom which I was n at the time of the explosion 💥 I've reused them for yrs but wasn't weighing them once I refilled them . Very good video !!!
Been RVing for 5 years and I found the Olympian heaters totally beat any other propane heater on the market. Those buddy heaters are horrible unless you just need something for a weekend trip but even then... , the olympian heaters are 99% efficient. using a 20lb tank I get 2 weeks of using it every night out of one cylinder. They are pricy but you'll save a ton of money in the long run not to mention they don't steam up your windows like other propane heaters like the buddy. For my 30ft motorhome, I have an Olympian Wave 8 but they also make 2 smaller sizes. If you need something like this dont waste your money on those buddy heaters or others. The Olympians really are the best hands down
For your needs the Olympian works very well. Those of us buying the Mr. Buddy are buying it as a emergency back up to survive power outages. Possibly some tent camping. Mine has set for two years with only a 15 minute test run every 6 months. It is not designed for the environment that that Olympian is. That Olympian would have a tough life tent camping and carried around in the bed of my truck. Two different needs.
Thank you! This was very helpful. I just bought a Mr. Heater (MH18B) to warm my garage for 1 hour per day so I can workout. I needed this lesson. I was clueless
Very good information on how to repurpose what would normally get thrown away and end up in a landfill. Thank you for this video. Great information. Stay safe.
To ensure that your small tank is empty you can make a hose adaptor that fits the small tank and evacuate it using a re-purposed refrigerator compressor. With a vacuum guage teed into the evacuation hose you can be sure that you have pulled the tank into a true vacuum. They will also fill faster if they start at a vacuum.
put empties in freezer for 15 minutes after letting ALL the contents out. The cold acts as a vacuum and allows more content into bottles. And make sure big bottle is upside down that lets liquid fill instead of gas.
Great video.... been doing it for years. Check into the brass screw on caps with the rubber gasket that are available to seal the tanks after you refill them. Just some more piece of mind.
I like how you are thinking. Side note I’m not sure how I got unsubscribed from your channel. Something weird is going on. But I’m back. Have you seen the “Gas Saver Plus” device that also allows you to purge the tank without actually disconnecting the supply line? I purchased one on the Walmart app. You may like it. If you don’t shop at Walmart you can find it on Amazon. Enjoy and thanks and take care. 👍🏾🏆🧐
You can re-fill them in just about 2 min . If chill the small tank i. Freezer and have the BBQ tank room atleast temp or warmer. Loved this video for the hose with T handle. I only had the straight adapter. Gonna get this attachment he's using for sure.
Good idea have seen it done years back,kinda forgot it, to save quite a bit of money and inconvenience I fill 20# cylinders off a 500gallon tank,if ya run out of gas on the BBQ can then refill it at home,saves the day and don't need to go to town for a refill if they are open. For safety sake always weigh to get the correct weight to avoid overfilling 🔥
Great informative job. You’re a solid well-rounded Dude. It’s good to know that there’s solid Men that are squared like-minded people out there, like you and I! God Bless!
Unless you have super-hearing, you will not be able to tell by listening when the tank has stopped filling because I've used a stethoscope and that 1 pounder is still filling even when you cannot hear it. When the big tank is full, for the first 5 refills I just leave it for about 9 minutes, then weigh it and it's always close to a pound of propane. But wait just a little too long & it will be over a pound. But it beats taking the tank of several times to get it full.
This was freaking awesome. This will save us money, time and may save some ones life if they loose power during the winter. Thank you for taking the time and effort to video this and then post it on your channel. This made me subscribe to your channel. Thank you again.
Great video bud. The only thing I would suggest is as follows. Try lowering the small bottles below the main tank and set them upright vertically so that the hose flows downhill into the small bottle and the small bottle can de-gass backwards through the hose back into the large tank. If the small bottle is horizontal it will take a long time to force the trapped vapor to collapse into the liquid (it should not have actual 'air'). Propane vapor going to propane liquid requires a small amount of heat to be absorbed.
O and going from propane vapor to liquid requires heat to be removed not added mr wizard! If you were in a room thats the temp of liquid propane, you could pour the liquid from one bucket into another bucket! 1deg. more and whoosh it would turn to a vapor! So you would be adding heat to go to a vapor removing heat to get to liquid! Im just sayin you know what im sayin! Back to chemistry class for you!
Your a smart dude. Some of the people here have made the same comments I would make already. You have responded to some. So you heard they're concerns. I like your hose rig. But I like my adapter better. All I need is that adapter,1/8" Allen key and a adjustable wrench to put in my kit You must start using your scale in the ounce range only for this. 2.2lbs 2.4lbs are way over filled. One pound 14oz is perfect weight. Not 6oz short. That translates to 30oz which is the target weight for Coleman tanks. You can't be cavalier about overfilling these tanks. They are each potential bombs. Last point is heaters in confined spaces. Growing up in the 70s a kid from the neighborhood had an older brother who went hunting with friends. They camped near their hunting grounds in a canvas tent with a white gas heater. They are still forever hunting in Heaven. Rip Guys
I’m going to try this, because there are times when I want more capacity than the 1 pound cylinders can offer. Usually I use an adapter hose straight up out of the 20 pound cylinder into my portable buddy.
Good demo, sir. However, I think you would benefit from some additional info. There is no air in those empty cylinders, it is propane gas. If you vent the pressure too close to a camp fire, you'll understand in a hurry. The cylinders are considered empty because there is no more liquid propane to develope pressure as it boils off giving you propane gas service pressure. Propane stays a liquid when the pressure in the vessel reaches about 135psi. When you hook it up to an appliance, the pressure drops in the cylinder allowing more liquid to turn to gas. No liquid, no additional gas pressure, but the propane gas has not been replaced by air. They will likely explode if you cut them if they are not purged of the propane first. I have been working with liquified gases like propane, oxygen and nitrogen and their containers for most of the last 30 years. Terminology matters to avoid confusion and dangerous mishaps. Cheers.
You may want to add a propane filter at the end of your set up. The Mr Heater filter can work in both directions, and your hose may "sweat" under pressure, pushing oils/debris into the 1lb tank, which then will go straight into your Mr Heater. The hoses sold by Mr Heater aren't supposed to release oils, but I dunno about just any random hose made in China.
Mine (brand new big buddy heater) keeps shutting off. Got the big buddy hose with regulator but I don't have a fuel filter. Put a hose on without a regulator and works fine. I guess I need to take hose back to Menards. Flipped my propane tank upside down for my tankless water heater heater and found out quickly it was a mistake. Caught on fire cause of the oil from being upside down. Put it out in time no big damage. My hose and heater is only a month old but I use it all day long. Have u ever had a problem with the hose or heater shutting off? I know it's the hose. I just don't know why like I said it's new. Maybe I just got a bad one. I think I'm gona get a new one and a fuel filter. Any help. Thanks. $23 to fill a #20 tank where I'm at.
@@michaelsilkwood6129 The Mr buddies have a regulator on them already. I read somewhere that if you have a regulator on the hose, it will over regulate your heater causing it to not work properly. I'm new to these little heaters, but I can say it really saved my butt this last cold spell. I went to a propane company to see if they had a filter to put on my heater. He pulled out the same Mr buddies brand 12 foot hose that I bought with the heater and said I didn't need a filter with this brand of hose. I couldn't find a filter locally and the cold was coming, so I hooked the hose up to a 20lb rino tank and stayed warm. The diagram that came with the hose showed the hose going from the tank directly into the heater without anything else. No regulator, no filter. I don't know if I will try to get a filter down the road or not, but if I don't, I watched a video on how to clean out the pilot light trap thingy. As far as the regulator, you don't need one as the heater has it's own built in.
@@squirrelcovers6340 My comment was about refilling 1lb tanks and possibly pushing oils into the 1lb and then later pushing the oils from the 1lb into the Mr Heater. But, since you brought up the subject of a big tank directly into a Mr Heater... The quick connect Mr Heater hose is a low-pressure hose because it has a regulator on the big tank side and the quick connect bypasses the regulator in the Big Buddy Heater , which I believe is the only Mr Heater that has a quick connect. My portable Buddy doesn't have a quick connect, so the regulated hose shouldn't be used because you should not double regulate (I was told by Mr. Heater). So I used the $35 one, because it works on ALL the Buddy's, no matter the model and doesn't need the filter, which is about $15 a piece, and you need a new filter every year, again, according to Mr Buddy. I'm not sure at what size (I think over a 40lb, but maybe it can directly connect to the 100lb) the coupler doesn't match the tank any more. With that $35 hose, you can add a Mr Heater adapter (about same as a filter, $15) to refill 1lb tanks and not need a throw away filter. My point was that, if you are not connected to the 1lb directly, your refill hose could cause you problems. And the filter would solve that. You cannot refill if the big tank is regulated. And I didn't want to get into an argument about it. Sorry I commented at all. Better to let people learn how to take their Mr Heater apart to clear the junk out, once it fails, during a snowstorm, I quess.
Two years ago I got a 6 pack of propane from Walmart for 19.00 now they nearly 10.00 a bottle glad you made video I have collecting bottles so I am on Amazon now
Great video. You answered some questions that I had about purging without having to buy the wrong sized needle nose pliers. You simply do not need the pliers. This just makes sense. I watched a few videos on this. Yours was the best. I ordered the valve, but since I only have 1 one pound tank to fill. I will not get the hose. Thanks again. Subscribed as well.
So I filled my first tank. No pliers were needed. Just do this in a well ventilated area. No need to ever buy 1 pound tanks anymore. Way cheaper to by the 20 lbs tank. Again. Thank you for the great content.
Thanks for this video. I just ordered a new refill hose. I would rather fill those tanks than directly hook up a 5 gallon tank inside my house in an emergency. Thanks again. That is cool as hell
Dylan's Kingdum: How to know if I over-fill a one pound tank? Do you judge by the total weight of the canister? If so, after you bleed the air out of the canister, how much should it weigh? And anything else you can share please.
@@theoriginalkeepercreek to be totally honest, it may be cheaper doing it the way he’s doing it in the video but if it doesn’t have a bleeder on it, I wouldn’t be filling them that just me. I’ve seen to many things happen. If it has a bleeder on it, as soon as it shows ANY kinds of signs of being full ( meaning) liquid coming out stop filling. Far as weights go, it’s been years since I’ve delivered propane so I can not remember the weight, if they include the tank or not.
Unless you need to conserve space where you use the heater, or saving on weight, you can pick up a conversion hose for the Buddy heaters to allow you to use regular propane tanks directly. The method in the video is a good one, but just wanted to toss out a simpler way if it fits your use.
Nice demo on refilling gas bottles, but there is no air in them, you are letting out gas when you operate the vent valve, I am guessing that is why it is there. When you vent the gas it reduces the pressure and temperature of your tank, allowing the liquid gas to flow from your 25lb tank. You correctly identify a full 1lb tank when you see the liquefied propane coming from your vent valve. Only use this procedure in a well ventilated area with no sources of ignition. And as already commented here, using any gas heater without a flu in a confined space without ventilation can kill you, a couple of campers died in a tent in these parts last year due to a small gas heater.
Straight up. I've fiddled with these tanks and the 'special fitting' for years. It can be done but remember this: If the valve leaks which is going to eventually happen, you will have a serious fire problem or odor leak problem. I lost a $350 down sleeping bag plus a bunch of clothes, food, and what not because of leakage. If you use these for heating I highly suggest to invest in the Flame King cyclinders with the fill valve because they're DOT certified and have a bleed valve that tightens securely with a hex key making leakage a nonstarter. I bought four for $99 from Flame King as an Ebay seller. The fill valve I got for $23.50. If you use the Big Buddy heater for winter warming the cost of the refillable tanks pays for itself quickly. I am sold on them.
I definitely agree with you that getting refillable 1lb bottles is the *safest* way to go. I have a cheaper alternative that is also safe: I purchased the brass caps for these 1lb bottles. Unlike the plastic caps you find on newly purchased bottles (which don't seal, they are only there to protect the threads from accidental damage) the brass caps thread on and seal, so if the tank valve is leaking the brass cap will seal and make it safe to store.
@@tamiboelter5491 The brass screw on caps are the way to go. I got six for $9. The Schroder valve on the side is sometimes pulled up to bleed while filling and there's no cap that fits over it.
Brass caps is a good idea. I'll have to get some. A run a flame by mine after filling because I never thought of caps. If one is leaking, I tap the valve with Allan wrench and recheck. That hose is nice too. I just have that brass nipple. It's annoying, but work's
Hello, I've been filling these small tanks for years. I never thought of putting a hose on the 20 pounder. Good idea. I do fill my 20 and 30 pounders off my 500 with a liquid valve filling apparatus. I've been thinking of getting a 1pound refillable tank with the bleeder valve, but they are expensive. Thanks again.
I just use the 20# propane tank with a “Y” fitting. I power my propane stove, heater and lights off of this. And besides, storing all these 1# tanks is a hassle
I fill Dot propane cylinders daily The propane tank should not be stored upside down as propane can exit the back of the valve (Under red cover) Make sure you are using scales if you do this If possible only fill the cylinder 80% for tempeture variances as the green tanks do not have OPD valves. The OPD valve shuts of flow of propane if over pumping occurs
I’m going to do this from now on instead of continuing to buy the green cans! Thanks for the great video.🎉🎉🎉 def save money the 1lbs they’re almost $6 each now at wal mart.
The only concern I’ve found is you’re not supposed to transport them after refilling. Do plan to do so for home use. There are Flame King refillable bottles, but they are currently difficult to find at a reasonable cost.
I believe that is commercial transportation, Private transporting would be ok. Besides who is to say that they had been refilled. No way to tell unless you rat yourself out.
@@bobkalinoski8447 HERE IS A LINK TO THE HOSE: www.amazon.com/dp/B087BCNWK3/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_B9APRS4CCC82T65VR6BS?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=ericpettway-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=14a8265b284c33c85fdac4ee04232db0&camp=1789&creative=9325
I have been using mr heater for several seasons. 20# tank with hose combination seems to come with a range of problems, mostly involving clogging. I just ordered filter, which was not supposed to be needed, if you buy the mr heater hose, but turns out to not be so. These things can be a life-saver, but, when they fail, it’s at a most in-opportune time. Best to familiarize one-self, Before you count on the life-saver part.
Found this really interesting. I used to do a lot of A/C work and suggest that you buy a cheap vacuum pump to suck the small tanks dry. They would fill a lot faster as you would not have to keep purging the air.
Air is NOT inside a propane bottle. Propane is inside a propane bottle. Is it SAFE to vacuum propane gas, using a vacuum pump ??? The correct answer is NO
@@billywilliams6853 It is safe. been doing it for years and years. Just like the tv/film stunts where a propane tank is shot with a bullet and it blows up. A separate charge makes that happen.
At 6:20 you called the white tank a 25 gallon tank. Actually, it is a 20 pound tank that is filled to 15 pounds at most refill stations. Also, if you are using your Big Buddy heater for emergency use, they sell a 4' hose that allows you to hook up your "25" pound tank directly.
if you can vacuum the 1lbs tanks, than fill them. It would have more Propane. Or as your filling them PULL the Pressure valve on the 1lbs tank out. this will allow more Propane in the take. I have done both. the vacuuming down the tank works WAY better, do to not destroying the relive valve on the 1lbs tank. and add a drop of oil on the fill valve for the 1lbs tank it will last longer and less chance of leaking, Try it.... great video thumbs up mate!!!!👍👋
Dude there is no air in the bottle. It’s propane gas. You’re just wasting propane. 2.2 pounds (and your second 2.4) is too much to fill to! Should not go above 29.5-30 oz - period! You have too much liquid propane which under hot conditions could vent and you don’t want that. Easier to TARE out the scale with your bottle on it and then fill to 16 oz. That only works if the initial bottle is empty. I like the hose! Like the buddy heater. Love mine. I use the 12 foot hose on it and hook up my 20 pounder to it. Thanks PS it is a 5 gallon propane tank or 20 pounder not 25 gallons
@eric pettway I concur with above. 13oz empty and 29 full. Been doing this for years. Great video though, keep em coming. Something tells me you have more useful skills to share with us. God Bless you.
@Megamus I had a death experience after a on duty motorcycle accident. I was dead for a few minute and I saw and spoke to God. I also saw my mom who told me to go back and help people learn about Heaven. Heaven is more real than my life here on earth and it’s waiting for all who love Christ. I was shown by God what hell looks like and saw my uncle in hell being raped by demons and begging for mercy. He never believed in God during his life. Christ is real and so is Heaven, but you’ll never go there if you don’t have a belief in Jesus Christ and keep him in your heart. I’m nothing without God and he is very active in our lives. It’s extremely unfortunate that you feel this way because anyone that thinks they are in charge of their own life will eventually get a wake up call and if your not paying attention when it comes you’ll miss the opportunity to open your heart and mind to the truth. Humans without Christ is their hearts are just empty vessels waiting to be filled with hate, sorrow, pain and never ending struggles. When I gave my heart to God my struggles ended. I’ll pray for you open your heart to Gods love and forgiveness Megamus. God Bless you my friend.
@@Dedicateddad4ever So using your "logic", as far as I can see regarding this god creature of yours, is it only made humans so as it has something to praise and worship it, basically feed its ego,nothing else, am I on the right track here or what, or can you think of another reason it supposedly made us?
The way to do it and avoid needing to bleed the tank to fill and also to preserve the head space needed for expansion in hot weather is to take your empty 1lb tanks and put them in the deep freeze for 30 min. This will contract the air in the tank, making more room for the LNG and you will get a more complete fill.
I’ve heard that freezing the small cans helps speed up the refilling process. I will try this hose and freeze the small cans, hopefully I won’t blow myself up! 😂
Nice video. I do freeze my 1 lb bottles. In addition, I test my filled 1 lb bottle with soap suds. Some 1 lb bottles refill many times but some seals are not very reusable. Hate leaky bottles. Just saying ... My experiences.
2 things you need to know about filling these tanks. 1, the gas or air you are venting is propane gas as has been stated. Under pressure that gas will return to a liquid or if it is cooled, it will condense. Warming the big tank increases the psi of that tank, therefore increasing the psi going into the small tank. Also, keeping the small tank cold, immersing in a bucket of ice will keep small tank cold and will aid the filling by keeping the temp lower. 2, make sure you do not overfill the small tank. Fill it while on a scale. That is how they fill the big tank, on a scale. If you overfill the small tank, set it in the sun by accident, it is subject to blowing up. It needs that small space in the tank to allow for expansion and contraction.
Does that mean he doesn't need to vent the "air" since it's propane?
What about the little valve on to can you purge through that
@@Tileguy87 no, that is a catastrophic release valve. Best way is to cool the small cylinder and only add 1 lb. of LP ( @ 2 lbs total weight)
YES...and at least wear gloves to protect your hand and safety glasses if the wind blow it in your eyes! The temperature can cause great damage to the human body?
Just dont use 1lbers period ,buy a converter hose that hooks up to 20-40 lbers .just dont buy a mr buddy hose, they have an oil in it and plugs up the heater ,so ive heard
I'm not racist or anything, BUT... it's helpful to see a Brother teaching the Sisters (like me) how to be self sufficient. Thank you for your easy-to-understand video.
Thank you, i appreciate your support!
Your fill-hose is absolute genius and a great vid. In all honesty, what I typically do is use the 1LB tank till completely empty...then use a little allen key wrench to vent what is left for 0 internal pressure....weigh the canister...then fill with 16 oz of LP. Saves a ton of money.
I'm pretty sure these tanks don't have the Allen key. I'm thinking your referring to the flame king refillable ones. Which are designed to be refilled.
I'm not referring to some sort of allen key fitting. I'm referring to the pressure release fitting to the side of the center mounted main fill. You use a little allen key to depress the pressure release valve to vent tank.@@JohnCorey-s6p
@@frankcastle5294 the pressure release is a pull pin, not a push pin. The allen key works in the main seal/valve. Thats the one you want to be venting anyway. If it doesnt seal you can screw on a brass cap or screw the bottle up to whatever has a shutoff valve. If that vent cap doesnt seal, ...game over for that bottle and 1 lb of propane
@@JohnCorey-s6pThanks for the info in your comment. I was not aware of the Flameking refillable option. I’m going to go that route.
Don't know if you read the comments, but Amazon has brass caps with seals for the one pound cans. Sometimes, after they are refilled a few times, the seals in the cans will "seep" even though they are still good to use. They work great for storage and they protect the threads from dirt or damage. Also, a spray bottle with a little dish soap and water to spray the valve to see if the seal has been compromised after filling.
Awesome thanks for that info!
Very good to know. Thank you
Always a good idea to use the soap and water in a spray bottle on your propane connections to your propane equipment also! Be sure your connections aren’t leaking either or a connection not tight enough!
@@ghostridergale thanks!
Good tips liked your video
Good to see my brother engaging in being self sufficient and practicing sensible survival skills
I’ve watched several of the refill videos, yours is the best!
You explain everything and don’t take 20 minutes.
Thanks very much.
Thanks!
Have several buddy Heaters , have stoves and lanterns and they are very much used. My furnace went out several years ago and my Big Buddy that was supposed to be temporary is still pulling duty by heating 1500 sq ft of the house with a 12 ft.hose connected to a 20 lb tank . Been filling the 1 pounders for many years now and have tried most every method. I have settled on NOT Bleeding off gas , tanks will only fill to 3/4 but never worry with overfill , the tough buddy will only run 3 hours plus instead of 5.4 hrs but tanks are changed quickly. I try not to refill the 1lb bottles more than 20 times before trashing them , I have many campgrounds near my home and I can collect all that I need that has never been refilled and thrown away. Make no mistake about it, the 1lb bottles will start leaking if you keep on refilling them. I have my 20 lb tanks filled for $15.00 each , that's .75 cents a lb ......75 cents a full 1lb bottles . It's a small chore to fill the needed 1lb bottles but with a little common sense and safety, it is very much worth the money that has been saved or spent on other things needed that are run off propane !
Thank you for the thoughts. I have a Colman stove single burner that uses the 1 lbs bottle. I just purchased the big buddy , hose and filter for using with the 20 lb. tank . Now I can just use the 20 lb tank to refill the little one. I already have two new little tanks and definitely will be looking for replacements at campgrounds where they most likely are not re used as well. Also I'll spend the time changing out these tanks when they are empty instead of unscrewing them at refill and releasing gas which is a money saver. Thanks.
Ditto
It’s $21 to refill a 20# tank around here. The ones you can buy pre-filled at the convenience stores, etc. are filled to only 14#. I watched them over the years go from 20#, to 17#, to 15# to now 14# while the price has steadily increased.
@@JT_70 Forget the already filled tanks because they are much more even if they are full. When having them filled you know its full because they fill it until the liquid fuel starts coming out the bleeder valve. Evey tank has the empty weight stamped on the tank so add 20 lbs for a 20 pounder and thats what your tank should weigh when filled , set it or hang it on what scales you have. 20 pound tanks have gone up a dollar , $ 16.00 to be filled but if they went up to $21.00 I would still be using one as a donor tank to fill my 1lb bottles which would cost $1.05 ea to refill , saving me lots of money . I don,t believe in being" a penny wise and a pound foolish "......because its hundreds of dollars , I take several tanks to be refilled at a time but If I only had one tank and the time I certainly would have it filled. The lives of my family members have been made better because of propane gas , loss of power after a snow storm for 14 days is just one example of dozens of times the power has gone down, our camping ,recreation and decades use on construction jobs.Most of my life I usually have had 250 to 500 gallon tanks at my homes and had what was adequate for job sites with heaters fork lifts ,golf carts etc but for now ........I am enjoying small heaters, stoves, ranges and ovens, lanterns and all that will run on propane .....even a generator to keep fridge and freezers going when the power goes out. Propane is safe, clean and easy to store if your blessed to live out of the cities. PS I don,t burn gas logs in a Fire Place and don,t burn gas in my grill ........Wood and Charcoal !
@@randyrussell6246 I wish my generator was propane. I may look into a propane conversion kit as I always keep a couple of full 20# bottles, which is much safer than storing 6 5gal plastic jugs of gasoline in my attached garage. I miss having a wood burning fireplace, especially when power goes out in the winter. One of the fireplaces in my last home and in my home before that (different states) was wood burning. If I move again or build I want a wood burning fireplace again.
Been doing this for a couple of years, just ordered the hose. What a great improvement. You should get a commission. Thanks for your time !
Thanks for watching!
Make sure to check my latest video as well!
Where can I get that hise setup at? Thanks!!
If you use a pair of tiny clamp type scissors and pull up on the little pin in the side hole while filling, and wait till the white spray comes out, you don't have to keep stopping to purge the system. That is how you purge the bottle without having to disconnect it repeatedly.
Where did you get the hose with the shutoff valve?
@@kimkaufenberg3222 E-BAY
thanks you for that tid bit. i was wondering about that
The hose is definitely better than the brass one piece adapters. The "air" you're letting out is gas propane. The "white" is liquid propane. When filling you have to let out some of the gas to get the liquid in. The easiest way to vent the gas is to use curved jaw hemostats. Clip them onto the shrader valve stem (the other little hole on the top of the tank) and rotate the bottle where the shrader valve is to the top. When the sound of flowing gas decreases, pull out on the valve stem to let some of the gas out. When you start getting little spits of liquid coming out of the shrader valve you know your tank is full. Fast and easy without a lot of screwing on and off.
Fukk that! What a pain innthe ass!
To fill these tanks fully they should be be filled upright and yes venting the valve will fill the can to its capacity not on its side!
.
You don’t have to let the gas out to get the liquid in. Letting the gas out drops the pressure rapidly, chilling the tank further and drops the pressure so the liquid from the larger tank will transfer. Its the same as filling CO2 for paintball guns.
@@Combat_Pyro Propane in gas form takes more space than liquid. While venting the canister does cool the tank which is good, the gas still needs to be replaced with liquid. Bulk CO2 tanks have a diptube which bring liquid from the bottom of the tank as the gas at the top pushes it down as it expands. 20# propane bottles do not have diptubes and is the reason you invert them when you want liquid out. Gas has to come out in order for liquid to go in.
Yup, that's how I've always done it.
Thanks for the link for the hose, I may get that.
I freeze the 1-lb'ers, then just fill once. I get a reliable 11-15 oz. fill, and this is enough for me, seems safest, and I don't mess with bleeding off air etc.
Cheers
This is so cool...
My son in Albuquerque NM has a Humvee ... (big motor scooter) ... LOL
I am so glad to have come across your video...
I am 68 years old and am getting ready to live in my 1972 Vintage Tiny Travel Trailer
(not my first rodeo)...
I used to "Flip" RVs, and Travel Trailers... finished 2 this year...
keeping the VT3 (Vintage Tiny Travel Trailer) ...
when I get through with it it will be a VT4 (Vintage Tiny Travel Trailer Transformer) LOL ...
Moving back to Albuquerque, to be closer to family, and thought why not use this VT3 until I find what I want and where I want to be... So exciting...
I should use my Son's Humvee to pull my VT3 LOL.... I"d be a bada$$ grandmother... LOL
Thank you for sharing this great idea... saves a lot of money...
"Praise the Lord"
This is some priceless info you put on here.I live in Michigan and I use a Little Buddy heater.The bottles are building up so I googled could 1lb tanks be refilled and it said absolutely not,it was dangerous,and take them to a landfill for disposal.I am so glad I came across your channel. Great info. I was thinking about using them for target practice also,but I won't be doing it now.Propane is a little bit cheaper in the warmer months as there is not as much demand. So I will probably do my refills in September. Thanks again.
Also, illegal to refill them, read the label on the green bottle.
@@DanKinneyGoogleyea but nobody cares about that but pussies
There is a relief value on the top side ,leave that value up and you can release the air as you fill it without unscrewing, until it is full,great video, have a miracle filled day
I'm so thankful I saw this. I bought some of these for my Mr buddy heater a couple years ago. They cost $2.97 I went to get a few but they were 7.97 so I didn't get any at Walmart. I was going to check prices at other stores. But you have solved my problem. Thank you.
You are welcome and thanks for watching!
Thanks, Bro! Great vid. Keep up the great work "spreadin' the WORD!" Peace and blessings from Ohio!
I just bought a heater and six cans of propane and was thinking, "what a shame all those cans are just gonna...." Anyway I came in to get a quick run through on using the heater and linked to this video. Thanks heaps from a Canuck trying to stay warm in a camper. You sir are a scholar and a gentleman. André
Well Thank you!
I appreciate you watching!
Sure are a lot of 'experts' in the comments...Thanks for this video. Best I've seen on youtube.
Thanks
If u want to use the buddy heater at home just use the adapter hose from the 20lb + tank directly to the buddy heater
That’s great if your using the heater in a semi-permanent location but not if your carrying it out for hunting. It’s far more convenient to carry the small tank in a backpack and carry they heater then set it up in hunting blind.
@@michiganmoto7687 my comment did state "at home"
Good way to clog the gas lines in your heater. I had it happen to two so far
@@dwightvoeks9970 buy the adaptor hose with a filter from buddy. They don't have oil residue like other cheap brands that clog up the heater.
It's a little more pricy but I've been doing this for a very long time still haven't clogged my big buddy and I've gone through a lot of refilled 20lbs running through mine.
@@azndrifter204 do you have the 20 pound tank in the house with the heater or do you leave tank outside connected to heater inside?
Eric, I have read many of your comments, and would like to add just a couple. #1). Check DOT laws befor moving them. Somewhere I read that DOT says you may not transport a refilled disposable tank. #2). There is dirt in the larger tanks and when you turn the big tank upside down to get the liquid to flow, the dirt gets into the small tank. I don't know how it gets into the orifice of the appliance but it does. I've had to clean it out a several times. Somewhere I heard of an inline filter, so be aware. #3). When you overfill the small tank, you can get into a hydraulic pressure issue. The relief valve is meant to vent gas not liquid, so keep in a ventilated area at least until you know it's not overfilled. #4). When overfilled I have trouble with some appliances. The liquid gets into the needle valves and cools it right down which shrinks it and slows the delivery. Then if I open it more I get a huge surge of gas and the flames go over a foot high. #5). I refill for $ savings. So I check around and find the lowest price place. I usually get my 20 Lb tanks refilled at a hardware store where they give me the full amount. Blue Rhino only gives you 15 Lbs, but the tank can hold 20#. That's a 25% savings right there. Then, if you can get the 20 Lbs for 20$, you can fill the little cans for $1 each. Even at Walmart the 1 pound disposable is over $5 apiece. And finally, I just put my 1 pounder on the 20 and invert it for over night. The next day it's always overfull, but I know it is and I deal with it as such. I have seen where some guys will let out a little gas to cool the tank off, which allows more liquid to enter, I just don't like wasting the gas letting it out to reduce the pressure either during filling or when I get around to using it. I use a 1 pound tank every day to cook with, so I'm not just shooting my mouth off. OK, Fine Business, just be smart about it. ben/ michigan
Just did this. Works well!. Doing a couple of quick Letting the residual gas out of the green can helps to add weight in liquid and expanding that gas gets that can so cold you feel like your hands just got burned . No need to freeze those little green bottles. I used a very small Philip head screwdriver to relieve the gas. Similar to letting air out of a tire, it works great…so…thanks so much for your demonstration! you really helped me,and I am filling up 7 of my empties..👍
I would put those 1lb tanks in the freezer before filling and I got substantially more liquid gas in the bottle than room temperature tanks. "Tanks" for your time making this video. I'll look for that hose for sure.
👍😁
Awesome Thanks!
HERE IS A LINK TO THE HOSE:
www.amazon.com/dp/B087BCNWK3/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_B9APRS4CCC82T65VR6BS?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=ericpettway-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=14a8265b284c33c85fdac4ee04232db0&camp=1789&creative=9325
If you smelt any metals you can use those empty 1lb r's for a single use crucible. You can really get about 5-10 melts out of one depending upon thickness and type of metal you are melting. I have seen people use empty fire extinguishers as well but these are a perfect size for my furnace with minimal work and cutting.
This was helpful as the small bottles are in high demand. FYI Propane a.k.a R-290 is and was used as a refrigerant in the 1920's until they found out it explodes! Ha, lol.
In cool or cold weather it is easy to overfill the bottles, the same bottle will be overfilled in warm to hot weather. Your digital scale is a must! Thanks for a informative video.
40 years hvac trade, 27 years Nevada State Contractor C-21 License.
Lol awesome, great bit of history!
Just FYI, an empty 1 lb tank weighs approximately 14 ounces empty, adding 16 ounces of propane to it makes it about 30 ounces total. I would be afraid to overfill one of them since they’re rated for 16 ounces. Second, I love how you added that hose and valve, looks much easier and quicker 👍🏻
I just refilled 8 canisters the old fashion way. Gotta rig me up a hose.
With the hose, one could actually weigh it as filling to get it full but not overfull.
Just FYI I just had a 20 lb tank refilled and it cost $12.50
So 12.50 divided by 20 is about .62 per 1 lb refill. It makes sense to refill if very careful.
Also, at walmart just two 1 lb canisters cost $9.99
Thanks for video and idea, but don’t overfill 👍🏻
Started with the one piece brass fitting. My son bought me the one you have with a valve. What a difference. Thanks
Thank you for a great video. I was always told they were non-refillable and had to be taken to a site for proper disposal. This will save me hundreds per year.
Very nice video with lots of great participation I've been refilling tanks for years you and comments have upped my game ty
Important to note that the valve on those little bottles tends to leak, especially after a few refills. Hit it with a little silicone spray lube and listen to make sure it's not leaking before storing. Always store with the black plastic cap on as well.
The valves don't leak that is excess pressure being relieved when pressure drops to normal the valve will stop leaking
Brass caps work FAR better!
@@xxxxxxxx2076 I've had them leak out until they were empty. I bought the brass caps to solve that.
That's great info as I never knew that.
WOW! Outstanding! Thank you for this. I hate throwing out the canisters and then trying to find new ones to buy. Sometimes I just can't find them at all. This solves both problems and saves me money as well. I can't thank you enough.
Thanks for watching!!
I watched a guy use a pair of curved forceps to grab a hold of the tiny relief valve stem on top of the bottle and "pull up" on it to relieve air as it's filling so you don't have to unscrew and screw or have to freeze the bottle. Good Stuff...Thanks I love that hose set-up, that's the ticket!
Another guy says he doesn't like doing that because eventually that little valve needle starts to leak. Not sure how many times you can get away with using it. I also have a hose for my buddy heater that goes to the big tanks, but you don't want to be hauling a big tank around inside your vehicle in certain situations. I atleast strap it tightly to a seat.
If you have the space, or weight is not an issue, it may be safer and easier just to connect the large tank to the heater. I have a couple hoses with regulators that do the trick. There is also a 5lb tank available that may be a good compromise. Also as an extra precaution, you might fill the tanks while they are on the scale so you don't you don't over fill the 1 pound of propane.
No don't i had tried that the hose breaks down and clogs the heater I managed to save mine in time it would spit fire then o went back to the lill tanks and took about 5 tanks to stop I read lots of same comments after I was baffled on my issue
I fill now my Lil tanks like that but I freeze my bottles tanks to help except the gas
The key to this method is having a regulator. If you connect the heater directly to the tank with a hose the excess pressure from the tank will break down oils and chemicals in the hose resulting in a clear gell that will make it's way into the gas supply line of the heater causing it to no longer function. They are repairable by tearing down the heater to find the clogged supply lines, cleaning them with acetone or brake cleaner and blowing them out with air pressure. Reassemble and you're good to go.
Yes, I only use the 1 pounders if I want the heater very portable. Hooking to the 20 pounder is the way to go in most cases.
@@dwightvoeks9970 the heater has a built in regulator.
Exactly what I needed to learn today. Quick and to the point. You sir are a valuable teacher. Thanks!
oh yeah ? you really sure ? good luck !
Super helpful and great idea. Just ordered my hose for refills. Thanks for sharing.
Awesome!
Man....I had my buddy heater for a yr...learning so much about it...With some education about the heater....Nobody should be could or hungry...Awesome video...😎🙏
Thanks
Good information, after being without power for days several years ago i now have taken care ro ensure that i have heat and light and cooking ability. The propane heater and refill is important. I bought a iwatani butane stove as well.
If you're having an issue getting them full just set the little tanks in the fridge for a few minutes heat expands cold contracts but be careful you can very easily get way too much in them
⁉️ This man showed something very important !!! Weight ur tank ! I had 1 bust open on its own . It ignited from my natural gas burners n busted out every window n my 2 story home except the bathroom which I was n at the time of the explosion 💥 I've reused them for yrs but wasn't weighing them once I refilled them . Very good video !!!
Been RVing for 5 years and I found the Olympian heaters totally beat any other propane heater on the market. Those buddy heaters are horrible unless you just need something for a weekend trip but even then... , the olympian heaters are 99% efficient. using a 20lb tank I get 2 weeks of using it every night out of one cylinder. They are pricy but you'll save a ton of money in the long run not to mention they don't steam up your windows like other propane heaters like the buddy. For my 30ft motorhome, I have an Olympian Wave 8 but they also make 2 smaller sizes. If you need something like this dont waste your money on those buddy heaters or others. The Olympians really are the best hands down
For your needs the Olympian works very well. Those of us buying the Mr. Buddy are buying it as a emergency back up to survive power outages. Possibly some tent camping. Mine has set for two years with only a 15 minute test run every 6 months. It is not designed for the environment that that Olympian is. That Olympian would have a tough life tent camping and carried around in the bed of my truck. Two different needs.
i thoroughly appreciate your informative, no nonsense approach.
Thanks!
I have seen gas expansion when you go up in elevation so don't over fill and go up to the high country. Great idea to reuse tanks.
Jimmy O. from Ohio , has subscribed, very helpful video, and a polite guy running his channel. thanx
Thanks for the sub!
Thank you! This was very helpful. I just bought a Mr. Heater (MH18B) to warm my garage for 1 hour per day so I can workout. I needed this lesson. I was clueless
Awesome! I'm gad it was helpful!
😊 Absolutely
Very good information on how to repurpose what would normally get thrown away and end up in a landfill.
Thank you for this video. Great information. Stay safe.
To ensure that your small tank is empty you can make a hose adaptor that fits the small tank and evacuate it using a re-purposed refrigerator compressor. With a vacuum guage teed into the evacuation hose you can be sure that you have pulled the tank into a true vacuum. They will also fill faster if they start at a vacuum.
Awesome Thanks!
WAY too tedious.
or just connect the cable to the smaller tank and open (without it connected to big tank yet)
Great video and thank you for your military service. God bless you.
put empties in freezer for 15 minutes after letting ALL the contents out. The cold acts as a vacuum and allows more content into bottles. And make sure big bottle is upside down that lets liquid fill instead of gas.
Great video.... been doing it for years. Check into the brass screw on caps with the rubber gasket that are available to seal the tanks after you refill them. Just some more piece of mind.
I like how you are thinking. Side note I’m not sure how I got unsubscribed from your channel. Something weird is going on. But I’m back. Have you seen the “Gas Saver Plus” device that also allows you to purge the tank without actually disconnecting the supply line? I purchased one on the Walmart app. You may like it. If you don’t shop at Walmart you can find it on Amazon. Enjoy and thanks and take care. 👍🏾🏆🧐
You can re-fill them in just about 2 min . If chill the small tank i. Freezer and have the BBQ tank room atleast temp or warmer. Loved this video for the hose with T handle. I only had the straight adapter. Gonna get this attachment he's using for sure.
Good idea have seen it done years back,kinda forgot it, to save quite a bit of money and inconvenience I fill 20# cylinders off a 500gallon tank,if ya run out of gas on the BBQ can then refill it at home,saves the day and don't need to go to town for a refill if they are open. For safety sake always weigh to get the correct weight to avoid overfilling 🔥
Great informative job.
You’re a solid well-rounded Dude.
It’s good to know that there’s solid Men that are squared like-minded people out there, like you and I!
God Bless!
Unless you have super-hearing, you will not be able to tell by listening when the tank has stopped filling because I've used a stethoscope and that 1 pounder is still filling even when you cannot hear it. When the big tank is full, for the first 5 refills I just leave it for about 9 minutes, then weigh it and it's always close to a pound of propane. But wait just a little too long & it will be over a pound. But it beats taking the tank of several times to get it full.
I appreciate the suggestion
Good tip! Thanks for the 9 min observation…I will give that a try….cheers!
After more than 6 other videos, this is the best illustration...thanks for sharing.
Thanks!
Thanks for the video.
You are welcome, Thanks for watching!
This was freaking awesome. This will save us money, time and may save some ones life if they loose power during the winter. Thank you for taking the time and effort to video this and then post it on your channel. This made me subscribe to your channel. Thank you again.
You are welcome, Thanks for watching!
@@lifewiththepettways7281 Yes, I subscribed too. Very helpful, and seems like a polite guy, thanx.
@@jimmyruger7529 thank you for subscribing!
Thank you! I spend a fortune on the 1 lbs.
@@barbaragolliday1531 you are welcome!
Hey man you are very wise, I never would have thought about refilling those empty bottles.
Great video bud. The only thing I would suggest is as follows. Try lowering the small bottles below the main tank and set them upright vertically so that the hose flows downhill into the small bottle and the small bottle can de-gass backwards through the hose back into the large tank. If the small bottle is horizontal it will take a long time to force the trapped vapor to collapse into the liquid (it should not have actual 'air'). Propane vapor going to propane liquid requires a small amount of heat to be absorbed.
Degas backwards? What are you nutz! The pressure equalizes ! No gas will flow back to the big tank! You have no idea what you are talking about!
O and going from propane vapor to liquid requires heat to be removed not added mr wizard! If you were in a room thats the temp of liquid propane, you could pour the liquid from one bucket into another bucket! 1deg. more and whoosh it would turn to a vapor! So you would be adding heat to go to a vapor removing heat to get to liquid! Im just sayin you know what im sayin! Back to chemistry class for you!
Thank you. This will save me money. Good practical information, that I will put to good use for my camping stove, lantern, and heater.
Thanks again !
You are welcome and thanks for watching!
Our pleasure!
Excelent explanation about this fill out procedure.
Fantastic video! Thanks for sharing this with us!
Thanks for the video. I got tired of flipping the tank, ordering a hose!
You are welcome!
Your a smart dude. Some of the people here have made the same comments I would make already. You have responded to some. So you heard they're concerns. I like your hose rig. But I like my adapter better. All I need is that adapter,1/8" Allen key and a adjustable wrench to put in my kit You must start using your scale in the ounce range only for this. 2.2lbs 2.4lbs are way over filled. One pound 14oz is perfect weight. Not 6oz short. That translates to 30oz which is the target weight for Coleman tanks. You can't be cavalier about overfilling these tanks. They are each potential bombs. Last point is heaters in confined spaces. Growing up in the 70s a kid from the neighborhood had an older brother who went hunting with friends. They camped near their hunting grounds in a canvas tent with a white gas heater. They are still forever hunting in Heaven. Rip Guys
I’m going to try this, because there are times when I want more capacity than the 1 pound cylinders can offer. Usually I use an adapter hose straight up out of the 20 pound cylinder into my portable buddy.
It says on the can not to refill
Good demo, sir. However, I think you would benefit from some additional info. There is no air in those empty cylinders, it is propane gas. If you vent the pressure too close to a camp fire, you'll understand in a hurry. The cylinders are considered empty because there is no more liquid propane to develope pressure as it boils off giving you propane gas service pressure. Propane stays a liquid when the pressure in the vessel reaches about 135psi. When you hook it up to an appliance, the pressure drops in the cylinder allowing more liquid to turn to gas. No liquid, no additional gas pressure, but the propane gas has not been replaced by air. They will likely explode if you cut them if they are not purged of the propane first. I have been working with liquified gases like propane, oxygen and nitrogen and their containers for most of the last 30 years. Terminology matters to avoid confusion and dangerous mishaps. Cheers.
Great comment , please elaborate on why they will explode if they are cut.
You may want to add a propane filter at the end of your set up. The Mr Heater filter can work in both directions, and your hose may "sweat" under pressure, pushing oils/debris into the 1lb tank, which then will go straight into your Mr Heater. The hoses sold by Mr Heater aren't supposed to release oils, but I dunno about just any random hose made in China.
Mine (brand new big buddy heater) keeps shutting off. Got the big buddy hose with regulator but I don't have a fuel filter. Put a hose on without a regulator and works fine. I guess I need to take hose back to Menards. Flipped my propane tank upside down for my tankless water heater heater and found out quickly it was a mistake. Caught on fire cause of the oil from being upside down. Put it out in time no big damage. My hose and heater is only a month old but I use it all day long. Have u ever had a problem with the hose or heater shutting off? I know it's the hose. I just don't know why like I said it's new. Maybe I just got a bad one. I think I'm gona get a new one and a fuel filter. Any help. Thanks. $23 to fill a #20 tank where I'm at.
@@michaelsilkwood6129 The Mr buddies have a regulator on them already. I read somewhere that if you have a regulator on the hose, it will over regulate your heater causing it to not work properly. I'm new to these little heaters, but I can say it really saved my butt this last cold spell. I went to a propane company to see if they had a filter to put on my heater. He pulled out the same Mr buddies brand 12 foot hose that I bought with the heater and said I didn't need a filter with this brand of hose. I couldn't find a filter locally and the cold was coming, so I hooked the hose up to a 20lb rino tank and stayed warm. The diagram that came with the hose showed the hose going from the tank directly into the heater without anything else. No regulator, no filter. I don't know if I will try to get a filter down the road or not, but if I don't, I watched a video on how to clean out the pilot light trap thingy. As far as the regulator, you don't need one as the heater has it's own built in.
Only the 10' Mr. Heater Buddy hose doesn't require a filter. It's $35. The other hoses are much cheaper.
@@squirrelcovers6340 My comment was about refilling 1lb tanks and possibly pushing oils into the 1lb and then later pushing the oils from the 1lb into the Mr Heater. But, since you brought up the subject of a big tank directly into a Mr Heater...
The quick connect Mr Heater hose is a low-pressure hose because it has a regulator on the big tank side and the quick connect bypasses the regulator in the Big Buddy Heater , which I believe is the only Mr Heater that has a quick connect.
My portable Buddy doesn't have a quick connect, so the regulated hose shouldn't be used because you should not double regulate (I was told by Mr. Heater). So I used the $35 one, because it works on ALL the Buddy's, no matter the model and doesn't need the filter, which is about $15 a piece, and you need a new filter every year, again, according to Mr Buddy. I'm not sure at what size (I think over a 40lb, but maybe it can directly connect to the 100lb) the coupler doesn't match the tank any more. With that $35 hose, you can add a Mr Heater adapter (about same as a filter, $15) to refill 1lb tanks and not need a throw away filter.
My point was that, if you are not connected to the 1lb directly, your refill hose could cause you problems. And the filter would solve that. You cannot refill if the big tank is regulated.
And I didn't want to get into an argument about it. Sorry I commented at all. Better to let people learn how to take their Mr Heater apart to clear the junk out, once it fails, during a snowstorm, I quess.
Two years ago I got a 6 pack of propane from Walmart for 19.00 now they nearly 10.00 a bottle glad you made video I have collecting bottles so I am on Amazon now
Great video. You answered some questions that I had about purging without having to buy the wrong sized needle nose pliers. You simply do not need the pliers. This just makes sense. I watched a few videos on this. Yours was the best. I ordered the valve, but since I only have 1 one pound tank to fill. I will not get the hose. Thanks again. Subscribed as well.
So I filled my first tank. No pliers were needed. Just do this in a well ventilated area. No need to ever buy 1 pound tanks anymore. Way cheaper to by the 20 lbs tank. Again. Thank you for the great content.
Thanks for this video. I just ordered a new refill hose. I would rather fill those tanks than directly hook up a 5 gallon tank inside my house in an emergency. Thanks again. That is cool as hell
Glad it helped
I worked for a company delivering and filling all different sizes and one thing is make sure not to over fill. It can get deadly
Dylan's Kingdum: How to know if I over-fill a one pound tank? Do you judge by the total weight of the canister? If so, after you bleed the air out of the canister, how much should it weigh? And anything else you can share please.
@@theoriginalkeepercreek to be totally honest, it may be cheaper doing it the way he’s doing it in the video but if it doesn’t have a bleeder on it, I wouldn’t be filling them that just me. I’ve seen to many things happen. If it has a bleeder on it, as soon as it shows ANY kinds of signs of being full ( meaning) liquid coming out stop filling. Far as weights go, it’s been years since I’ve delivered propane so I can not remember the weight, if they include the tank or not.
Unless you need to conserve space where you use the heater, or saving on weight, you can pick up a conversion hose for the Buddy heaters to allow you to use regular propane tanks directly. The method in the video is a good one, but just wanted to toss out a simpler way if it fits your use.
Indeed, Ive ordered a hose for that reason as well.
th-cam.com/video/F_hlPTgElZM/w-d-xo.html
Nice demo on refilling gas bottles, but there is no air in them, you are letting out gas when you operate the vent valve, I am guessing that is why it is there. When you vent the gas it reduces the pressure and temperature of your tank, allowing the liquid gas to flow from your 25lb tank. You correctly identify a full 1lb tank when you see the liquefied propane coming from your vent valve. Only use this procedure in a well ventilated area with no sources of ignition.
And as already commented here, using any gas heater without a flu in a confined space without ventilation can kill you, a couple of campers died in a tent in these parts last year due to a small gas heater.
Straight up. I've fiddled with these tanks and the 'special fitting' for years. It can be done but remember this: If the valve leaks which is going to eventually happen, you will have a serious fire problem or odor leak problem. I lost a $350 down sleeping bag plus a bunch of clothes, food, and what not because of leakage. If you use these for heating I highly suggest to invest in the Flame King cyclinders with the fill valve because they're DOT certified and have a bleed valve that tightens securely with a hex key making leakage a nonstarter. I bought four for $99 from Flame King as an Ebay seller. The fill valve I got for $23.50. If you use the Big Buddy heater for winter warming the cost of the refillable tanks pays for itself quickly. I am sold on them.
I definitely agree with you that getting refillable 1lb bottles is the *safest* way to go. I have a cheaper alternative that is also safe: I purchased the brass caps for these 1lb bottles. Unlike the plastic caps you find on newly purchased bottles (which don't seal, they are only there to protect the threads from accidental damage) the brass caps thread on and seal, so if the tank valve is leaking the brass cap will seal and make it safe to store.
In reference to the leaking valve, will the black cap not prevent leaks? Or a spray of silicone?
@@tamiboelter5491 The brass screw on caps are the way to go. I got six for $9. The Schroder valve on the side is sometimes pulled up to bleed while filling and there's no cap that fits over it.
I just got the hose so I can use a 20lb tank. Screw the small tanks
Great video! But where are the bottle caps? I find that little tanks leak slowly when refilled. I bought brass caps on amazon
Nice! I onky have my black caps that came with them
Brass caps is a good idea. I'll have to get some. A run a flame by mine after filling because I never thought of caps. If one is leaking, I tap the valve with Allan wrench and recheck. That hose is nice too.
I just have that brass nipple. It's annoying, but work's
You could keep them empty while you’re not using them. Only fill as needed when you need to the buddy heater.
Hello, I've been filling these small tanks for years. I never thought of putting a hose on the 20 pounder. Good idea. I do fill my 20 and 30 pounders off my 500 with a liquid valve filling apparatus. I've been thinking of getting a 1pound refillable tank with the bleeder valve, but they are expensive. Thanks again.
You need to vacuum the 1 lb bottle to negative pressure. That way when you fill, the bottle will such the propane into the bottle.
Thanks man right to the point with really helpful stuff without the BS. 👍
I just use the 20# propane tank with a “Y” fitting. I power my propane stove, heater and lights off of this. And besides, storing all these 1# tanks is a hassle
Been doing this for awhile now no problem what so ever! And agree it's the cheapest way!
I fill Dot propane cylinders daily
The propane tank should not be stored upside down as propane can exit the back of the valve
(Under red cover)
Make sure you are using scales if you do this
If possible only fill the cylinder 80% for tempeture variances as the green tanks do not have OPD valves.
The OPD valve shuts of flow of propane if over pumping occurs
What red cover?
I’m going to do this from now on instead of continuing to buy the green cans! Thanks for the great video.🎉🎉🎉 def save money the 1lbs they’re almost $6 each now at wal mart.
The only concern I’ve found is you’re not supposed to transport them after refilling. Do plan to do so for home use. There are Flame King refillable bottles, but they are currently difficult to find at a reasonable cost.
I believe that is commercial transportation, Private transporting would be ok. Besides who is to say that they had been refilled. No way to tell unless you rat yourself out.
I would like to know where I could purchase the hose to use from the big tank to the little one and with the valve on it
@@bobkalinoski8447 Amazon
@@bobkalinoski8447 HERE IS A LINK TO THE HOSE:
www.amazon.com/dp/B087BCNWK3/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_B9APRS4CCC82T65VR6BS?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=ericpettway-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=14a8265b284c33c85fdac4ee04232db0&camp=1789&creative=9325
I have been using mr heater for several seasons. 20# tank with hose combination seems to come with a range of problems, mostly involving clogging. I just ordered filter, which was not supposed to be needed, if you buy the mr heater hose, but turns out to not be so. These things can be a life-saver, but, when they fail, it’s at a most in-opportune time. Best to familiarize one-self,
Before you count on the life-saver part.
I always run a filter on my hose, even if it's a body heater hose
Found this really interesting. I used to do a lot of A/C work and suggest that you buy a cheap vacuum pump to suck the small tanks dry. They would fill a lot faster as you would not have to keep purging the air.
Air is NOT inside a propane bottle.
Propane is inside a propane bottle.
Is it SAFE to vacuum propane gas, using a vacuum pump ???
The correct answer is NO
@@billywilliams6853 It is safe. been doing it for years and years. Just like the tv/film stunts where a propane tank is shot with a bullet and it blows up. A separate charge makes that happen.
Seen several videos on this subject and this one so far is the best .. thanks
Thanks!
At 6:20 you called the white tank a 25 gallon tank. Actually, it is a 20 pound tank that is filled to 15 pounds at most refill stations. Also, if you are using your Big Buddy heater for emergency use, they sell a 4' hose that allows you to hook up your "25" pound tank directly.
Correct. I bought that same hose to power my Buddy.
DUDE JUST USE THE HOSE AND A 20lb cylinder
Dudes actually weighing them
if you can vacuum the 1lbs tanks, than fill them. It would have more Propane. Or as your filling them PULL the Pressure valve on the 1lbs tank out. this will allow more Propane in the take. I have done both. the vacuuming down the tank works WAY better, do to not destroying the relive valve on the 1lbs tank. and add a drop of oil on the fill valve for the 1lbs tank it will last longer and less chance of leaking,
Try it.... great video thumbs up mate!!!!👍👋
The hose you’re using in the video is being delivered to my house today.
Awesome!
Excellent demonstration. Thank you!
You are welcome!
Dude there is no air in the bottle. It’s propane gas. You’re just wasting propane. 2.2 pounds (and your second 2.4) is too much to fill to! Should not go above 29.5-30 oz - period! You have too much liquid propane which under hot conditions could vent and you don’t want that. Easier to TARE out the scale with your bottle on it and then fill to 16 oz. That only works if the initial bottle is empty. I like the hose! Like the buddy heater. Love mine. I use the 12 foot hose on it and hook up my 20 pounder to it. Thanks
PS it is a 5 gallon propane tank or 20 pounder not 25 gallons
Thanks for the info
4.2 gallon 4.7 max
I just got the same one works excellent
That was the best video on filling small tanks iv seen
set your scale to ounces - empty tanks are 13oz. full tanks are 29oz.
Awesome thanks for the info!
@eric pettway I concur with above. 13oz empty and 29 full. Been doing this for years. Great video though, keep em coming. Something tells me you have more useful skills to share with us. God Bless you.
@@Dedicateddad4ever I think I would depend more on a full tank of gas than depend on a god doiing anything..just sayin like.
@Megamus I had a death experience after a on duty motorcycle accident. I was dead for a few minute and I saw and spoke to God. I also saw my mom who told me to go back and help people learn about Heaven. Heaven is more real than my life here on earth and it’s waiting for all who love Christ. I was shown by God what hell looks like and saw my uncle in hell being raped by demons and begging for mercy. He never believed in God during his life. Christ is real and so is Heaven, but you’ll never go there if you don’t have a belief in Jesus Christ and keep him in your heart. I’m nothing without God and he is very active in our lives. It’s extremely unfortunate that you feel this way because anyone that thinks they are in charge of their own life will eventually get a wake up call and if your not paying attention when it comes you’ll miss the opportunity to open your heart and mind to the truth. Humans without Christ is their hearts are just empty vessels waiting to be filled with hate, sorrow, pain and never ending struggles. When I gave my heart to God my struggles ended. I’ll pray for you open your heart to Gods love and forgiveness Megamus. God Bless you my friend.
@@Dedicateddad4ever So using your "logic", as far as I can see regarding this god creature of yours, is it only made humans so as it has something to praise and worship it, basically feed its ego,nothing else, am I on the right track here or what, or can you think of another reason it supposedly made us?
Solid info. and demonstration sir. Thank you!
The way to do it and avoid needing to bleed the tank to fill and also to preserve the head space needed for expansion in hot weather is to take your empty 1lb tanks and put them in the deep freeze for 30 min. This will contract the air in the tank, making more room for the LNG and you will get a more complete fill.
Awesome thanks!
I think its LPG
You just saved me so much money I normally just go buy new ones for my buddy heater thank you great vidio
Glad I could help
Why not let that little 1 pound bottle sit right on the scale while you’re filling it get a rough idea what’s going on
Because you have the weight of the valve fitting. Lol
I was thinking you were going to show how to do this using the mr.buddy lol
Thanks for the knowledge
Great video
Lol, thanks
I’ve heard that freezing the small cans helps speed up the refilling process. I will try this hose and freeze the small cans, hopefully I won’t blow myself up! 😂
Freezing is not necessary.
Nice video. I do freeze my 1 lb bottles. In addition, I test my filled 1 lb bottle with soap suds. Some 1 lb bottles refill many times but some seals are not very reusable. Hate leaky bottles. Just saying
... My experiences.