Can Both Tanks Be Opened on a Dual Propane Tank RV Setup

Published 12/24/2022

Question:

With a Cavagna 524AS regulator with no auto changeover, no switch just 2 lines into the regulator, do I open both tanks to operate? Previous owner had one open and one closed. I ran out of propane i thought and when I checked I realized I still had one full tank. Now I want to fill the empty one. Do I shut both tanks and remove the empty one to get filled, then when I have 2 full tanks do I open them both or one at a time?

asked by: John B

Helpful Expert Reply:

Thanks for reaching out!

While we don't carry that specific brand, there are some common operations between dual two-stage regulators so I'll be able to shed some light onto the subject for you.

When using a two-propane tank setup you'll only be pulling propane from one tank at a time. You can keep both tanks opened up so the regulator can seamlessly switch over to the full one (if you have an auto change regulator) but your regulator should not be pulling from both tanks - if it is then you'll need to get a new regulator.

To remove a tank simply shut if completely off and then you can remove it from your propane setup. You can leave the full one hooked up and plugged into the regulator or you can shut it off if you aren't using it. A good general rule is to shut off your propane when you aren't using it so in the event of a leak somewhere you don't drain your tanks.

If you need to replace your regulator then I recommend checking out the JR Products Automatic Changeover 2-Stage Propane Regulator # 37207-30395 because it changes from green to red when your tank needs to be filled and it automatically changes over to the full tank when the low tank runs out. Please note this comes with the 1/4" inverted flare fittings already installed.

If you want to get into a fancy setup then I recommend checking out the GasStop Emergency Propane Shut-Off Kit # GS69FR that comes with the regulator I mentioned above, 2 pigtails, and 2 pressure sensors that not only show an indicator of your propane gas level but they also have a built-in shot-off system that shuts everything down if they detect a large leak or regulator failure.

Attached are review videos of both kits mentioned above for you to check out!