As we prepare for SHTF
Don't be caught with an empty tank if yours has no gauge.
There is a very simple way to tell how much propane is left in your tank.
Here’s what I do when I want to know how much propane is left in my tank. I get a container of hot water from the sink and pour it down the side of the tank. Then, I feel the side of the tank to see where the temperature changes occur.
The side of the tank will feel warm where it’s empty and cool where the propane level begins. It’s fast and easy to do so it won’t take up a lot of your time. More importantly, it really works!
This method may not be as accurate as reading a gauge. However, it will be a very close estimate. Now you know how to tell if your home propane tank is empty or close to it.
Just pick it up and slosh it around a little. If its heavy and doesn't slosh much, its full. If its somewhat light and doesn't slosh much, its near empty. It it sloshes around decently, its close to half full.
Pro tip, get your tanks refilled don't do a tank exchange. They will fill your 20lb tanks to 20lbs. Exchanges are usually only about 15lbs and charge as much if not more.
Speaking of 20lbs of propane, if you really need to know the exact amount in a tank.... weigh it! :) Stamped on the collar of every propane tank is the tare weight (empty weight), usually stamped as "TW nn LBS". Weigh the tank and subtract the tare weight.
The only probably with refilling them here is if the tank is older than 2 years and has no inspection date on it, the propane company will not fill it.
It costs $100 to have it inspected in this area.
I can get four filled filled tanks for that price and not worry about inspection.
When the tank's inspection is expired do a tank exchange, and then go back to your local refiller. Make sure to pick one with a good date or you be back doing it again soon. Look it over good to make sure it's other wise in good shape.
When you say inspected do you mean the hydro testing? I was getting my high pressure cylinders recertified with hydro testing for $12 a piece in my area. Call local scuba supplies or fire extinguisher supplies and they should tell you where hydro testing is done cheapest if you ever need that service.
They pressure test the tank, and hoses and gages. There aren’t any scuba shops around here or fire extinguisher supply stores either.
Can't say I have ever run into that, but if you do, why not just exchange it at that point then carry on with refills?
That is what we do. Except for our large tanks, we own two of them and the third one is owned by the local propane company. We’re lucky on those, they inspect all three once a year free of charge. Living in rural areas have their advantages and disadvantages.
More advantages than disadvantages, if you ask me. :)
BTW, tanks should be good for 12 years from the date stamped on them from what I understand. https://www.ferrellgas.com/tank-talk/blog-articles/how-to-tell-if-your-propane-tank-is-expired-and-what-to-do-next/