Is it true that those places that swap your empty propane tank for a “full” one don’t really give you a full tank?
Yes, most retailers who swap empty propane tanks for full ones do not fill them to their full capacity—and this is intentional and standard practice.
Here’s why:
- Safety Regulations: A typical 20-pound propane tank (commonly used for grills) can hold about 20 pounds (or ~4.7 gallons) of propane when completely full, but industry safety standards only allow these tanks to be filled to 80% capacity to leave room for gas expansion.
- Swap Programs Often Fill Less: Many tank exchange programs (like Blue Rhino or AmeriGas) fill tanks to only about 15 pounds of propane, not 20. This is often noted in fine print, but it means you’re getting less fuel than if you had your own tank refilled at a propane refill station.
- Convenience vs. Value: Swapping is more convenient and often cleaner, but typically more expensive per gallon and you get less propane than a refill.
If you’re looking for the best value, refilling your own tank (like at The Grill Place in Vero Beach) is usually the better option.
Next time you need propane, get a full tank at The Grill Place in Vero Beach.
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