Smaller Propane Tanks

It's the same propane that comes out, just a smaller tank. You can do it, if you can safely mount the tank. You might need to extend the line from the regulator if it doesn't reach.

Nope, no issue aside from mounting and plumbing them in.
On a related note, I am learning how the overpriced refill exchanges are still popular….

What are you paying per gallon? $19.99 for an exchange doesn't seem that bad to me.

Our latest rig came with #20 tanks. At first we were concerned but honestly, we typically get 6-8 weeks out of a tank (more in the summer when it's only for cooking). When empty, we typically switch to the 2nd tank and start keeping an eye out for a fill station. No real rush.

Honestly, prefer to have them filled rather than exchanged as you get more propane for less cost but it's not a huge issue. Maybe $20/yr overall cost difference.

One nice thing with the #20 tanks is if the fill station gives you a hassle over the tank age, just do an exchange, checking that the new tank has a few years left on the certification.

Samsonsworld wrote:
What are you paying per gallon? $19.99 for an exchange doesn't seem that bad to me.

20 lb propane cylinder holds about 4.7 gallons of propane.

Propane weighs about 4.2 lbs per gallon

pretty much all cylinder exchanges (you bring empty and exchange it for a loaded cylinder) short load the cylinders with about 15 lbs of propane or about 3.5 gallons of propane.

In the case of the price of $19.99 that is $5.71 per gallon you are paying for the convenience of grab and go..

If you went to a propane dealer that fills your cylinder while you wait and you were to pay $19.99 you would get 4.7 gallons of propane at $4.25 per gallon!

But I think $19.99 for exchange is a bit low, current price locally for Blue Rhino cylinders near me is $21 for 15 lbs..

Been quite a few yrs ago when I needed to refill my 30 lbs cylinders, cost me less than $19 for full 30 lbs (about 7 gallons) although I am sure it is a bit more now days.

If you are OK paying more for convenience and don't mind only getting 15 lbs then use the cylinder exchanges.

Samsonsworld wrote:
What are you paying per gallon? $19.99 for an exchange doesn't seem that bad to me.

And convenient. I went to the smaller tanks simply because of the weight.

The only issue I've had with them is often the tanks are quite old, and I assume the valves are too. I've had a few problems with how tricky it is to get the valves to open. On occasion I've had to use a screwdriver on the relief screw to relieve pressure to get the valve to work.

That said, if a refiller overfills them, same problem.

Samsonsworld wrote:
What are you paying per gallon? $19.99 for an exchange doesn't seem that bad to me.

Bout half that much...
I'll grab a refill for convenience or to get rid of an old tank occasionally, just like I'll pay a premium for fuel out of necessity or convenience, but I don't go looking to pay 2x as much for just about anything I buy.

Grocery store exchanges are easier but very expensive IMO.

2oldman wrote:
The only issue I've had with them is often the tanks are quite old, and I assume the valves are too.

Yep - You're never sure if the tank they just gave you is going to actually work.

I've had a couple that were leakers whenever they were hooked up for use.

My own tanks are like-new, in perfect condition - Which is why I won't exchange them.

Excellent points, ski and 2oldman.