Blue torches use propane and are best for general, low-heat tasks. Yellow torches use MAP-Pro gas and burn significantly hotter, making them ideal for heavy-duty jobs like brazing, soldering thick pipes, and loosening rusted bolts.
The main difference between a blue and yellow Bernzomatic torch is the type of fuel they use. Blue torches typically use propane, which burns at a lower temperature, while yellow torches use MAP-Pro gas, which burns hotter and is better for tasks like soldering or brazing.
We cannot properly see the tanks when it is dark. We risk losing our license and put our staff in danger if we do not properly inspect tanks before refilling. -We cannot see if a tank is leaking or propane is pooling if the light is insufficient.
The "best" propane torch depends entirely on your project. For DIY plumbing and soldering, the Bernzomatic TS4000 is the industry standard. For heavy-duty outdoor work like weed burning and clearing ice, the Flame King YSN340K is highly rated. For starting campfires or searing meats, the Saker Plus MT62 stands out.
A Propane Gas Flame Should Be Blue
As you would expect, an orange or yellow flame's temperature is much lower, at around 1,832° F. That's about half the temperature of a normal blue flame. If you notice that your propane gas flame is not burning blue, it's important to reach out to us.
Efficiency: A blue flame signifies complete combustion, meaning the fuel burns more effectively. In contrast, a yellow flame suggests incomplete combustion, resulting in wasted fuel and reduced heat output.
Aboveground propane tanks are typically filled to about 80 percent capacity, which leaves 20 percent of the tank empty for expansion (we call this the “80/20 rule”); underground propane tanks be filled slightly higher, because the ground insulates the tank from big temperature swings.
The hottest propane torch depends on your application: for plumbing and brazing, handheld swirl torches (like the Bernzomatic TS8000) reach 𝟑,𝟔𝟎𝟎∘𝐅. For heavy-duty outdoor tasks like weed burning or melting ice, massive weed burners (like the Flame King 500K BTU) blast out temperatures over 𝟐,𝟎𝟎𝟎∘𝐅.
Hazard: The trigger on the torches that engages the flame can fail to disengage when the trigger is no longer pressed, posing a burn hazard.
A common method to loosen seized parts is to apply heat, which may come in the form of a propane torch, acetylene torch, heat gun, induction heat or a heated element. Scientifically, heat expands metals, which can break the bonds of rust. As metal cools, it contracts to break up rust.
In the winter, a 500-gallon propane tank will typically last 1 to 3 months. Because tanks are only filled to about 80% to allow for safe fuel expansion, a "full" 500-gallon tank holds roughly 400 usable gallons.
Typically, propane prices are lower during the warmer months when demand decreases. According to industry insights, the cheapest time to buy propane is usually late summer to early fall, around August to October, when demand is low because fewer people need propane for heating.
According to U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) guidelines, most portable propane cylinders are qualified for 12 years from the date they were manufactured. After 12 years, they must be requalified before they can be refilled.
Burning weeds with a propane torch (also known as flame weeding) is highly effective, especially for small seedlings, weeds in gravel or pavement cracks, and clearing garden beds before planting. It is a popular chemical-free alternative, but it requires patience, repeated treatments for hardy weeds, and strict fire safety precautions.
The best Bernzomatic torch depends on your project, but the TS8000 is widely considered the ultimate heavy-duty choice, while the TS4000 is the best all-around option for everyday use.
Harbor Freight has faced several notable controversies over the years, ranging from consumer lawsuits over "fake" discount pricing and product safety recalls, to shifting brand reputation as the company raises prices and phases out its legendary 20% off coupons in favor of premium tool lines.
Candles or tiki torches contain citronella oil and are released as a smoke, which confuses mosquitoes and hinders their ability to smell the carbon dioxide and lactic acids that attract them to you.
Troubleshooting Ignition Problems
One common cause of a torch not igniting is a faulty spark igniter. Sometimes, the igniter might not produce a strong enough spark to light the gas. Dirt or debris blocking the tip of the torch can also prevent ignition, as proper gas flow is interrupted.
If you use propane to power an appliance or two, a 100-gallon tank should last about a month. If you use propane to heat your home, your water and run multiple appliances, you'll probably need a fill-up every four to six weeks.
Max Heat Torch for Faster Work Times The Bernzomatic TS8000BT High Intensity Torch Head is the hottest buring torch in the Bernzomatic line.
No, gasoline burns slightly hotter than propane. Gasoline has an estimated peak flame temperature of about 𝟑,𝟔𝟎𝟎∘𝐅 to 𝟒,𝟎𝟎𝟎∘𝐅 depending on the exact mixture, while a propane flame peaks around 𝟑,𝟓𝟔𝟎∘𝐅 to 𝟑,𝟔𝟎𝟎∘𝐅.
A 250-gallon propane tank (which holds roughly 200 usable gallons due to the 80% fill rule) typically lasts 1 to 2 months for a household using it for central heating, cooking, and water heating during winter. If used only for cooking and water heating, the tank can last 6–10 months.
Is It Cheaper to Run a Generator on Propane or Gas? Typically, gas is more economical to operate per kilowatt-hour since it contains more energy per gallon. However, propane might be more cost-effective over time due to reduced maintenance expenses and a longer lifespan for the engine.