Deciding whether to replace or refill your propane tank can be puzzling, especially when considering tank lifespan and safety regulations. Like many, I recently faced this question with my aging aluminum propane tank, which is now 13 years old and nearing its legal refill limit. This experience spurred me to delve into the regulations surrounding propane tank certification and explore the best options for propane tank refills.
Federal regulations stipulate that metal propane tanks, whether steel or aluminum, come with an initial certification of 12 years. Beyond this period, these tanks require recertification to remain legally refillable. This recertification process involves re-stamping the tank with a new date, extending its usable life for another 5 years. Research suggests that metal tanks can undergo recertification up to three times, adding a potential 15 years to their initial 12-year lifespan.
Fiberglass propane tanks, however, operate under different rules. Being non-metallic, their initial certification period is shorter, lasting only 5 years. Following this initial period, fiberglass tanks can be recertified twice, also for 5-year extensions each, resulting in a maximum lifespan of 15 years, similar to metal tanks after initial certification and renewals.
Recertification must be performed by qualified companies. Locating such a company, transporting your tank, and covering the recertification costs might sometimes be more expensive than simply purchasing a new tank. Recertification can involve either a hydrostatic test or a visual inspection. Visual inspections are generally less costly, but finding a certified provider is still necessary. While your local propane refill dealer might not be qualified for recertification, some dealers might offer this service or be able to direct you to certified facilities. It’s always worth asking your refill location about recertification options when considering Where To Refill Propane Tank.
Assuming recertification isn’t the most cost-effective route, the practical lifespan of your tank for refills becomes the initial certification period: 12 years for metal and 5 years for fiberglass.
To make an informed decision about tank replacement versus recertification, and ultimately, where to refill propane tank safely and legally, consider the cost implications. Calculate the cost per year of tank use by dividing the tank’s purchase price by its initial certified lifespan (12 years for metal, 5 years for fiberglass). This calculation helps quantify the value of features like the see-through aspect of fiberglass tanks.
My personal approach, for now, involves a bit of practical monitoring. Since my propane refill dealer recently refilled my aging aluminum tank without question, I have some breathing room until the next refill is needed. To better manage my propane levels, I invested in a simple and inexpensive dial-type fish scale. By weighing my tank using this scale and knowing the tare weight stamped on the tank, I can accurately estimate the remaining propane, helping me plan my refills and ensuring I always refill propane tank within its certified lifespan.
