Just a
quick note: If you want to add propane to your Prepper stocks using propane
tanks like BBQ or RV size tanks in 10, 20, 30 & 40 lb. sizes, be aware that
propane tanks do not last forever and have an expiration date. When they pass
the expiration date they must be re-certified before they can be re-filled. The
cost for small portable tanks is $30-$50. You may find a lot of deals
advertised on Craigslist or Flea Markets just look for the expiration date
before you buy and then judge for yourself it it’s a good deal or not. If you
buy new tanks, which I think is the best deal, do shop around because prices
vary wildly. My new 30lb tank cost me $72.00 including being filled! Other
stores wanted $100.00 for an empty tank plus another $30 to fill it.
Cylinder Certification and
Recertification
Cylinders
are subject to recertification (also known as requalification) twelve years
from their date of manufacture and every five years after that. For example, a
cylinder manufactured in January of 2000 will have to be recertified in January
of 2012 meaning if you take your bottle to the propane company in April of 2012
to be refilled, it will have to be requalified by authorized personnel before
it can be filled. The recertification process is simple and does not take too
long to complete. Think of cylinder recertification as an inspection similar to
that of your car. A vehicle has to be inspected annually so that it may
continue to operate safely on the road. Similarly, a propane cylinder must be
inspected so that it may continue to operate safely in LP Gas service.
Here’s a
picture of my 30 lb tank which looks typical of all smaller tanks. The
manufacture date is stamped on the outside of the protective valve shroud or
carry handle.
Here’s
one of my 30 lb. RV tanks and you can see on the valve protector/carry handle,
the date of manufacture 09-05 clearly stamped into it. This is typical of all small
tanks.
On the
other side of the carry handle you can see the recertification statement
stamped in it.
As my 20 pounders get near (or past) their experation date, I take them to a propane tank exchange. Presto! Newer tank for the cost of a refill.
ReplyDeleteOnce again, an excellent article. Guess I should really get outside and check ours out. Thanks for the reminder.
ReplyDeleteUseful as always!
ReplyDeleteChina
III
Six, are you talking about rental BBQ tanks? I'm not familiar with an "exchange", what do you have up there?
ReplyDeleteCarolyn and China,
ReplyDeleteThanks!
There are exchange stations that are prevalent. Some names are Horizon, Blue Rhino, Amerigas, and a slew of others. Cost ranges from $17.99 to nearly $40 for a 20# cylinder. But, look closely at the amount of gas yhe cylinders contain, its usually only 15 or 17 pounds for a cylinder that can legally hold 20. Criminal? Only in the eyes of an informed comsumer...
ReplyDeleteYeah, the tank is technically yours, but rarely do you have a choice what the snot-nosed clerk pulls out. Some exchanges are completely automated. Swipe your card, door opens. You pull out the 'full' tank, and put the empty in. Otherwise, you pay a hefty surcharge.
Thanks Sheldon, we have those down here I just never heard of them being called exchanges.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDelete