[A/S] One more Propane answer

["tdickieson" <lleather@xxxxxxxx>]

The loss of pressure results in a loss of volume of gaseous propane, 
as it cannot contain as much in the empty space in the tank without 
pressurizing it.  What is required in cold climes, is to fill to a 
lesser amount with liquid propane, which allows more space for the 
gaseous.  The only problem with the cold loss of pressure and 
resulting loss of volume, is that if the appliance burning the vapour 
is large enough, it may be starved by lack of volume.  The pressure 
is still adequate and controlled by the regulator; just the volume 
goes down below the optimum requirement.  One thing that can be done 
to combat this is to shake the tank.  This works okay on propane 
powered vehicles, because moving down the road will do this. I have 
on occasion seen the taxi companies here towing their propane cars 
around the block to do this in winter, so that they can get up enough 
pressure to start them. Basically it forces the propane to convert to 
gaseous state to fill the void in the cylinder.  This is real 
difficult for those who heat their homes with propane, as their tanks 
are in the 500 gallon range.  The friendly giant might be able to 
shake em, but I know I can't. Ha.

Tom
Cold White North (but not today) 8=)