Propane Fill vs Exchange? Don't do it!

Comparison between getting your propane tanks filled vs going with an exchange place. Watch this!

[joey]

actually a 20 lb propane tank can only hold a max of 16 lbs of propane BY LAW, that is because of the 80% rule, and the OPD valve won't even let you fill it beyond that, it's a safety thing because of expansion. Exchange places give you 15 lbs (~3.6 gallons), Blue Rhino & AmeriGas both advertise the tanks as 15lbs. The refill that uhaul does is charged by the gallon & most don't even use a scale anymore, when the opd kicks out gas it's full, which is normally around 4.2 ~ 4.7 gallons which is ~16 lbs of propane. So Yes you get more propane at uhaul refilled, than a typical tank exchange.

[dalehammond]

If your propane cylinders are in good shape and up to date, you're correct. If you found some rusty out-of-date bottles at a garage sale or trash pickup, go for a new replacement via exchange. Then just have them filled after that. At least that's the way I do it.

[mailliw]

Tanks don't hold20 lbs. The weigh 20 lbs full. You get about 4lbs in a tank. And if they're fling them past 80-85% it's dangerous.propane expands incredibly in heat

[mainelyelectric]

I only use the exchange for if I need a newer tank with a date so I can get it filled. But around me I exchange when needed at my Walmart because they charge $14.95 for 15 pounds. NICE 👍

[ilearnedsomethingnewtoday]

Fyi... I'm in the propane business. You don't get 20 lbs in a 20 lbs cylinder. It's physically impossible. The OPD valve prevents filling above 16 lbs. You only got 2 lbs more of propane. 1 lb in each. Still saved money though.

[urbanstuff]

This video should have been 60 seconds or less.

[ioodyssey]

It is unsafe to put 20lbs in that tank. The manufacturers state clearly that tanks should be filled to 80%. Most places have laws that filling beyond 80% is unlawful.

[johnstack]

Places that exchange tanks are all over the place. I get them from a local convenience store. I tell the cashier that I want a propane exchange. I pay then she gives me the key. I go outside and open the cage, take the new tank, leave my old tank, return the key then I'm off. Easy peezy.

I used to bring a lightweight bathroom scale to weigh the new cylinder (so I don't get ripped off) but they were always bang on, so I don't bother anymore.

[johnderby]

Sure is a good idea to do an exchange to get a certified tank when your tank is expired or near it. Then keep getting it refilled until the certified date is coming up. Good way to save $.

[NAMULTISS]

Been a seasonal camper for over 10yrs I’ve always went to get tanks refilled at propane dealer and it’s always been cheaper. Just exchange them when they near there end date and swap for a newer tank.

[timothyFL]

Walmart Exchange $14.92
Walmart gas station a lot faster

[KATONKA...]

For anyone who didn't see my response to Mr. "I'm in the propane business" (which he obviously IS NOT)! A 20# cylinder weighs 17-18# empty and IS designed to hold 20# of liquid and should weigh 37-38# full. The tare and manufacture data is on the collar band, BY LAW! Also BY LAW, any cylinder 100# or less can NOT be filled after 12 years, we allowed 10 and didn't do trade. If they are selling exchange 20# cylinder's with out saying they are less are violating the weights and measure laws in your state!!! PERIOD end of discussion.

[Lord.Kiltridge]

I am shopping for new propane tanks. I'm finding exchangable tanks for $27 and regular tanks for $55 at the same store. What's the difference? I'm not doing the exchange thing. I know how to fill the tanks. But why are exchangable tanks so much cheaper?

[DougHinVA]

Gas logs in the fireplace and a tank outdoors for 80 gallons refilled by a local family-owned outfit is good insurance if ther electricity is off for a day or 2 ... or more.. Propane at Lowes is $21 for 15 gallons and your empty tank (from a gas grill) in December 2022. You pay what you must to keep a house warm and if trees fall over and knock out electricity... you stay warm as bes you can... no lights, no computer, and no electricity at all... Try to get prepared!

[monk]

You drove by Northern Brewer! ...that's what I use my propane for! Their hops are planted in my yard here in NJ.

[richardl]

So you paid about $3.90 a gallon for refill but about $5.70 for exchange.

[lisalovelylpa]

I thought the law was you can’t fill the tank above 80 % ???

[anthonyperotti]

The only time I exchange is when I get a used tank or an old valve tank...just to get one that has a working valve

[georgecurtis]

My problem ? I use very little propane, just for grilling at times on a small weber or flat top grill. So the problem is that each tank lasts me 11 years. So by the time i need to get a refill, im passed the test date. So back to the exchange situation. Im mostly a charcoal griller thus the long time for the tanks. Good ingo, thanks.

[Flipper]

Good information but your details are wrong yes an exchange tank is only 15 pounds of propane but they will only feel to 80% of the cylinder AA cylinder holds 20 pounds which is 4 and 3/4 gallon they only fill to 4 gallons which is approximately 17 pounds you're not getting 20 pounds of propane 17 pounds as the match you will get