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.
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/
I agree. That’s why we live in a rural area.
Yes, most tanks are good for 10 to 12 years, however, regulators, hoses, gages are not. Those are what the propane company inspect every year. Those last about 2, sometimes 3 years.
The hoses and tanks are exposed to the elements. The hot sun and freezing temps take their tolls after a couple of years. It is illegal to put covers over them here, because of possible leaks. They have had some spectacular explosions because people covered them up.
We also have to keep the footings on pavers, cinder blocks, or concrete pads. The tank itself cannot touch the ground, because of the alkali in our soil (especially the older tanks, ours are at least 30 years old). They test them for free, so no complaints here.