Cold weather and propane regulators

[konasmom]

It's nearing zero degrees in Boston and (of course) my propane tank is outside of my window. My question is, do I need to warm up the regulator before I light my torch. Does the cold adversly affect it's effectiveness?

If so, what's the best way to warm it?

Thanks,

Sue (brrrr)

[michey]

If it works, not really. You can start to get some breathing/slight surging effects or low pressure when it is is cold . Simple things like a light bulb just over the regulator, a hot pack to lay on it a few minutes before you start etc can help. Hot packs you can buy in the pharmacy and you can toss them in the micro to warm them. They hold heat for a long time. Other option is make your own, cloth bag or old big sock.......fill with dried rice or beads. micro for a couple minutes(times vary according to micro) until hot. Holds the heat long enough to warm up the regulator. I had to play these games with my old regulator, finally gave up and replaced it with a better one. Defintely not as cold here though.....high 30's when I am usually working but the same ideas will still work.