What should be done prior to connecting a regulator to a tank?

Before connecting a regulator to a tank, it is essential to ensure that the tank's outlet is free of debris that could impede proper operation or cause hazards. Quickly opening then closing the tank allows any potential foreign particles to be expelled. This step is crucial because debris can affect the performance of the regulator and potentially lead to dangerous situations like leaks or blockages in the gas flow.

While opening the tank continuously for a few seconds might seem logical, it does not effectively clear debris and could lead to unnecessary gas venting. Leaving the tank closed until ready to connect does not address the potential issue of contamination at the connection point. Inspecting the regulator for defects alone does not ensure the tank connection is clean and safe for operation, as the tank's outlet must also be checked. Thus, quickly opening and closing the tank is an effective preventative measure to maintain safety and equipment integrity.