Can i paint a rusty propane tank on my gas grill.?

Question

i just bought a new weber gas grill and they delivered it with a full tank...the tank is rusty around the outside...can i remove the rust with steel wool and paint it carefully while the tank is full..if so, what type of paint and is it safe to do this.

Answer 1

No, you can't. Paint is flammable, and the outside of your tank has to be non-flammable. What's more, using steel wool on the tank can put tiny scratches in the metal, and those scratches can turn into cracks over time.

You might not realize this, but you likely won't have that tank permanently. Most places that sell propane just exchange the empty tank for a full one: they don't actually refill your original tank.

Answer 2

you could paint it, but I would return it. no sense in spending time and money on something you already paid for, that was supposeed to come in good condition. some tank exchange places scrutinize the returned tanks more then others, so you might have a hard time otherwise

Answer 3

Why paint something you are going to trade for a full one when it's empty?

Answer 4

I know nothing about propane gas tanks, but what you said just sounds like a bad idea!!!!!! Call and ask for a replacement.

Answer 5

New grills are supposed to come with new tanks!  Weber is a very good company. I suspect whoever you bought it from or delivered it swapped tanks on you.  I would take it back and demand a new tank.  If they balk, contact Weber directly.  I have dealt with their customer service before and was very satisfied.

That being said, yes you can remove the rust with steel wool and/or fine sandpaper, prime and repaint it with a good outdoor enamel paint as long as the tank is in good condition.  If it is not then it is not even safe to use it much less start sanding on rusty spots.  If you keep it, have it inspected to be sure it is sound.

Bert

Answer 6

short answer is: yes you can paint it safely

Answer 7

Propane bottles are safe and can stand lot of abuse. You can transport them around in the back of your truck or car.  Sure, paint it if you like, but I agree with Roho.  Shortly you will trade it in for a full tank unless you have the old tank refilled. I recently saw a car rear ended with six tanks on a rear mounted platform behind the car (SUV).  Several of the tanks were on the asphalt, but none exploded. Use a reasonable amount of caution with propane and it is no more dangerous than your electric stove.  Good luck.