The age of the charcoal briquette may not have come to a close, but propane grilling systems have threatened its dominance in recent years, replacing old fashioned barbecue methods in many homes. The popularity of propane is largely due to the convenience and cost-effective nature of propane gas tanks.

The cost of a new propane tank is easily offset by its longevity. A new tank can last for a dozen years and doesn’t require a large initial investment (popular models average around $30). When filled, even a small tank can provide hours of burning time and is one of the cheapest ways to get a gas grill fired up. These portable propane tanks can be used at home for various heating purposes and are often found on the road in RVs for convenient energy storage. The smallest models can even fit in a backpack for use on a camp stove.

A propane tank is economical because it can be refilled. RV parks, campgrounds and truck rental businesses will often refill propane tanks for consumers and it costs much less than the price of a new tank.

Tank Exchange

Some buyers may find it difficult to refill a tank regularly if there isn’t a station nearby that can perform the task; for these customers, a tank exchange makes more sense. Many gas stations, hardware stores and grocery stores offer tank exchange services, making it a little easier to come by. Simply bring an old, depleted tank to one of these businesses, and exchange it for a full one. The cost of exchanging used propane tanks is less than the price of a new tank, but usually a little higher than a refill.

One downside is that upon exchange, a consumer may end up with a propane tank that doesn’t look as nice as the original. Fortunately, even these discount propane tanks must be certified by an inspector on a regular schedule, making routine tank exchanges even safer than holding on to an old one for many years.