Opening Main Tank Valves
 

Hi again, another question about the main valves at tanks. I was originally told to open my oxygen all the way and the propane only a quarter to half turn.
But now I am told that seems silly and that I should open both tanks completely.

Which is the proper way? Thanks again.

Opening the propane tank a quarter to a half turn will give you the chance of closing it in a hurry if you need to.

Due to the flammability of propane they have to go to the extra expense of putting a really high quality valve on those tanks to prevent any propane from leaking around the valve stem.

Oxygen tanks do not need to have that level of reliability because the worst that can happen is that the oxygen will leak out into the atmosphere which already has 21% oxygen in it.

The problem is that while it is not dangerous to have your oxygen leak out it is expensive because it will waste an entire tank in a few hours and that comes right out of your pocket.

They make the oxygen tank valves with seals at the fully closed position and at the fully open position but if you don't open it all the way it will leak around the valve stem.

Ahhh, Thank you for this info.
I've had an oxygen leak before, a cracked nut that I have saved because it has astonished everyone I've shown. It all just leaked out.

If it is safe to just quarter turn, that is how I prefer for the reason of quick shut off.

Playing devil's advocate here on the propane valve. I was told by an early teacher to open the propane all the way so that in an emergency, there's only one way you can turn it---off. No confusion.