If you depend on propane to provide heat, then you need to make sure that your tank is not expired. Although it may seem like it’s merely an arbitrary date, it’s important to follow the strict regulations put in place for your safety. Here’s how you can determine if your propane tank is outdated.

General Expiration Rules

If your propane tank weighs 100 pounds or less, it has an expiration date of 12 years from its manufacturing. After that period elapses, you must exchange the tank for a new one.

In some instances, inspectors may deem that a tank older than 12 years may be safe to continue using if its components are in good condition. This is known as requalification. You must find out beforehand if your gas company can provide this service; many require that you simply exchange your tank once its expiry date passes.

Checking the Expiration

You can easily determine your propane tank’s expiration date by inspecting the collar, which is situated on top. You’ll see a series of numbers here, including a serial number, a water content figure, a tare weight, and, finally, a date of manufacture. Since the date is written with the month followed by the year, add 12 to arrive at the expiration date. If you see an “E” printed after the date, then that indicates the tank was requalified.

Home Heating Tanks

Although these rules apply to most smaller propane tanks, the matter is different where your home heating tank is concerned. If you depend on the gas to heat your home and water, then you need to rely on the supplier to maintain the expiration date in its logs and perform maintenance and inspections as needed. You may want to ask your provider about the date so you can make a mental note of it.
 

Are you seeking a trustworthy propane supplier? Turn to Martindale Guadalupe Gas Company in Caldwell County, TX. Serving area residents since 1947, the locally-owned business is proud to be the area’s leading source for gas delivery. If your tank is expired, they’ll happily exchange it for a new unit so that you can continue to enjoy consistent heat. Visit them online for more details on their services. Call (512) 357-6497 to set up an appointment.