How to determine if your propane tank is expired and what to do next.
Propane is unique in that it must be transported and stored in a pressurized tank.In normal atmospheric conditions, it will return to its gaseous form.Propane tanks are heavily regulated to prevent improper storage.
Small propane tanks can be used for gas grills and portable stoves, while larger tanks are used to heat a home or other building.Some states have passed laws that are different from the federal mandate.There are new rules and regulations for owners of propane tanks.
The lifespan of a 100 pound propane tank is 12 years from the date of manufacture.You can either exchange the tank for a new one or have it inspected for requalification after 12 years.
A date of manufacture or requalification can be found on the collar of a propane tank.It will be in a month-year format.On the end of the date, tanks that have been re qualified will have an E.The tank weight rating is stamped onto its collar, so don't confuse it with the date.The letters TW precede Tare weighting.TW18 for 18 lbs.A tank.
Federal container laws govern large propane tanks used for home heat and hot water in most states.The owner or someone authorized to act for them can only fill a propane tank.Most home propane users lease their tank from a fuel supplier, who takes responsibility for keeping track of its expiry date.