High-powered propane torches like the GrillGun or Su-VGun are versatile tools used for grilling, starting brush fires, culinary tasks, and other applications. Their intense heat and open flame, often exceeding 3,500°F (1,930°C), pose significant risks if not handled properly. This article outlines essential safety practices and warnings to ensure safe operation.
A Grillblazer torch burns propane gas to produce a high-temperature flame, with excess of 400,000 BTUs in the case of the GrillGun. Misuse can lead to fires, burns, explosions, or toxic fume exposure. Familiarize yourself with the torch’s components (e.g., nozzle, trigger, fuel valve) and read the manufacturer’s manual before use.
Wear Appropriate Clothing for your usage of Grillblazer Products: Avoid loose clothing or shorts that could catch fire.
When doing brushwork or other fire-hazardous activities, use ANSI Z87.1-approved safety goggles, flame-resistant gloves, leather shoes, and heavy cotton clothing treated to be fire-retardant.
Inspect Equipment Before Use: Check the torch, hose, and propane cylinder for leaks, cracks, or damage. If a leak is detected, do not use the torch until it has been accessed/repaired by a qualified technician.
Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Ensure ventilation when burning abnormal materials like plastics to avoid toxic fume buildup.
Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby: Have a Class B (flammable gas) or ABC fire extinguisher within reach and be trained in its use. Stay vigilant to control burning materials.
Secure Footing and Flame Direction: Maintain stable footing to avoid tripping. Always direct the flame away from yourself and others, and never point the torch at anyone, even when off. (It looks like a gun… treat it like a gun)
Handle Propane Cylinders Safely: Keep cylinders upright and stable to prevent tipping. Store and transport cylinders in well-ventilated areas, never indoors, in enclosed vehicle trunks, or near heat sources above 120°F. Fully empty disposable cylinders before discarding in household trash.
Shut Down Safely: Never leave a lit torch unattended. Turn off the fuel valve to extinguish the flame before setting the torch down. Clear out the hose to remove residual gas (Check this article for more), and store in a cool, dry place away from heat sources after cooling.
Comply with Regulations: Follow local, state, and federal laws, including obtaining permits for outdoor burning where required.
Propane is highly flammable and can ignite instantly. Never use the torch near gasoline, solvents, sealed containers, or other flammable materials. Avoid confined spaces where gas can accumulate. If you smell gas, shut off the cylinder, ventilate the area, extinguish all ignition sources (e.g., smoking, sparks), and inspect in a safe area. Persistent gas odor requires professional attention.
Burn Risk: The torch’s flame and heated surfaces can cause severe burns. Never touch the nozzle or point it at yourself or others, even when off, as it may retain heat.
Gas Leak and Odor Detection: Leaks can lead to poisoning, fires, or explosions. Some users may struggle to smell propane due to age, medical conditions, or substances like alcohol or drugs. Odor fade (reduced propane smell due to rust, air, or water in cylinders) can occur; consider using a propane gas detector.
Toxic Fumes from Non-Grilling Use: Burning materials like coatings, solvents, or poisonous plants (e.g., poison ivy) can release toxic fumes. Use caution, ensure ventilation, and stop if fumes cause discomfort.
Cylinder Handling Risks: Never modify or repair cylinder components; seek a qualified technician. Avoid ignition sources (e.g., smoking, spark-producing tools) when handling cylinders. Comply with legal limits on cylinder transport in vehicles.
Storage Risks: Do not store cylinders indoors, in enclosed areas, or near heat sources, as pressure buildup can cause ruptures. Never place spare cylinders near an operating heat source.
Child and Irresponsible Adult Safety: Keep torches and cylinders out of reach of children and irresponsible adults. Never allow children to use the torch.
California Health Warning: This product may contain or produce chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm (California Health & Safety Code 25249.5 et seq.).
In case of an incident:
(Uncontrollable) Fire: Shut off the propane supply if safe, use the fire extinguisher, and evacuate if the fire grows. Call emergency services.
Burns: Cool minor burns with cold water for 10-15 minutes and seek medical attention for severe burns.
Gas Leak: Evacuate, avoid sparks, and contact a professional to address the leak.
Our torches feature a safety check valve inside the handle, designed to cut off propane flow if the torch is held in an unsafe position (e.g., on its side or pointing straight down) or is strongly jostled, such as during a fall. This critical safety feature prevents liquid propane from entering the torch, which is designed to burn gaseous fuel only, as liquid fuel can create unsafe conditions.
If the safety valve engages, you may notice symptoms like a low or orange flame, bursting, a frosted torch, dripping fuel, or inconsistent flame. This does not mean the torch is broken. To resolve:
Disconnect the fuel source (bottle or hose) from the torch.
Press the bypass trigger (squeeze handle) to clear residual gas.
Reconnect the fuel source while holding the torch upright in a vertical position.
Turn the gas knob on slowly.
Operating a high-powered propane torch requires vigilance, preparation, and adherence to safety protocols. By wearing proper PPE, inspecting equipment, working in a safe environment, following manufacturer guidelines, and complying with regulations, you can minimize risks and use your GrillGun or Su-VGun effectively. Always prioritize safety to prevent accidents and ensure a successful Grillblazer Experience.