Propane has many applications, from powering stoves and water heaters to fuelling grills and fire pits. It’s convenient and enjoyable, so it’s no surprise that nearly every home has one or two propane tanks.
However, propane tanks pose a problem when it comes time to move. They are classified as hazardous materials and cannot be loaded onto a moving truck with the rest of your belongings – the risk is too significant.
Although portable propane cylinders are pretty safe (they’re built to the highest safety standards and include reliable safety features like pressure relief valves), the conditions in a moving van (jostling movement, extreme heat, etc.) can cause the gas tanks to explode and cause havoc. As a result, propane gas canisters are not permitted on moving trucks.
Tip On What To Do With Propane Tanks When Moving
1. Return The Propane Tank To The Dealer
When moving and wondering what to do with your propane tanks, your first and best option is to return the tanks to the propane dealer from whom you purchased them.
When it comes to rented gas cans, that is your only option – the cylinders belong to the company with whom you have signed a propane supply contract, and they will take their tanks back when you move. To avoid paying a termination fee, notify the company at least 30 days before the agreement (unless otherwise stated).
But can you resell propane tanks?
Not exactly, but many propane dealers have exchange programs in which you can convert an empty container at one of their locations close to your current residence and buy a new one at a discount from them in your new city after the move. Most companies offer a rebate on the purchase price of a new tank, bringing the cost down to about the same as a refill.
Even if your old canister weren’t theirs, Some propane dealers would let you drop it off at any of their locations and receive a rebate when you buy a new tank from them at your new place.
So, in response to the question, “Can you return propane tanks for cash?”
In most cases, you will not receive money for returning a propane canister, but you will receive a rebate when you buy the new cylinder from the company you returned your old tank to.
2. Sell The Tank
You can avoid a lot of trouble by selling your old tank to somebody in your present city or town – a neighbor, a friend, a co-worker, etc. Even if you don’t know anyone looking for a propane canister, you could always use bulletin boards, social media platforms, or resale sites like Craigslist to discover people in your area looking for propane tanks.
The best solution is to sell your old cylinder for a reasonable price before moving. You won’t have to worry about returning the tank to a dealer or moving it to your new home – you’ll get rid of the tank and earn money to buy a new cylinder in your new place.
3. Dispose Of Your Propane Tank
If none of those mentioned options work for you and you don’t want to (or cannot) relocate your propane tank, your only option is to dispose of the cylinder before moving out of the house.
Remember that you cannot simply dispose of your gas cylinder with the rest of your garbage – propane canisters pose a hazard because some compressed gas may remain inside them, which could cause a fire or drastic explosion at the landfill.
So, if you want to get rid of a propane cylinder, go to your city’s website (or call the municipality) to find out where and how to dispose of old tanks.
Contacting a local propane supplier is another option; they will guide you to toxic garbage collection sites in the area.
4. Bring The Tank With You
The most logical thing to do when relocating is to bring your propane tanks with you and use them at your new residence. The issue is that moving propane cylinders is dangerous.
A) Will Movers Transport Propane Tanks?
Because propane tanks are classified as hazardous items, movers will refuse to transport them. Transporting a tank of pressurized flammable material is extremely dangerous – the gas could explode, destroying the entire shipment and the moving truck. The driver may be injured or others in the truck or on the road. An explosion can also cause damage to nearby vehicles or properties.
Because the risk is too significant, propane tanks and other pressurized gases are not permitted on moving trucks. (Also, check the list of prohibited items.)
However, you can transport a small propane tank to your vehicle.
B) How To Transport And Store Propane Tanks Safely
I. Important Transportation Advice To Move Your Propane Tank Safely
- Keep the tank upright.
- No more than four propane cylinders should be transported in an enclosed vehicle.
- Do not transport more than 90 pounds of total propane weight in an enclosed vehicle.
- When in an enclosed vehicle, one cylinder can only hold up to 45 lbs of propane.
- A pickup truck can transport up to 1,000 pounds of propane, which is ideal for transporting large tanks.
- When transporting propane, do not smoke.
- Never store propane tanks in a vehicle.
A small moving vehicle can only transport four propane cylinders at a time. A single cylinder’s propane capacity should not exceed 45 pounds, and the total combined weight of all cylinders in a vehicle should not exceed 90 pounds. All propane cylinders must be secured vertically and upright.
A reliable propane tank holder and stabilizer is the most secure way to secure a propane cylinder in a vehicle. These tank holders are safe and secure because they fit tightly around the propane cylinder – or lock into its foot ring. Many people prefer a milk crate. The crates are strong and will keep the cylinders vertical. It is also acceptable to secure a propane cylinder with rope, twine, or a ratchet strap, but ensure you have a good anchor point.
Up to 1,000 pounds of propane can be transported in an open pickup truck or trailer. However, propane cylinders must still be transported vertically and upright. A 100-pound propane cylinder is heavy and should be lifted and loaded with caution and with the assistance of another person. A full 100-pound cylinder can weigh up to 180 pounds, so be sure to request help safely loading the tank into your vehicle. A 100-pound cylinder should never be transported in a small vehicle or van.
Locate the anchor points once the propane cylinder has been loaded into the back of the truck. Use twine, rope, or other tie-downs to secure the cylinder at the base, near the foot ring, and at the top to keep it vertical and upright. For those, not comfortable tying knots, ratchet straps and other tie-downs are available.
Even though forklift cylinders are designed horizontally, inform customers that they should still be transported vertically. When the cylinder is secured to a forklift, a pin locks it, keeping the pressure relief valve in its vapor space. The canister may roll and shift the pressure relief valve to the cylinder’s liquid space when transported on its side.
II. Key Storage Suggestions To Store Propane Tanks Safely
- Never keep propane tanks inside your house, shed, or garage.
- Check that the tank is turned off.
- Keep the tank outside in a well-ventilated area.
- Look for any leaks.
- The propane tank should not be covered.
There are a few things to consider when using your propane tank to power a grill or other outdoor appliances. If you store the grill outdoors, keep the gas cylinder connected but turn it off. Turn off and remove the gas canister if you hold the grill indoors. Do not keep your tank inside your house, garage, or shed. If a leak occurs, this creates a dangerous ignition point. Instead, keep your tank outside in a well-ventilated, dry place.
When storing your tank outside, make sure the area is flat and as far away from the elements as possible. Maintain your propane tank in a tank foot, milk crate, or Propane Tank Holder and Stabilizer for added stability, which helps keep the tank upright and protects it from weather elements that end up on the ground.
Check your tank, valves, and connector hose for leaks or other signs of wear and tear, regardless of the age of your propane cylinder. Don’t worry; detecting leaks is simple. Fill a spray bottle halfway with non-abrasive soap. Spray the solution all over the tank, including the valves and hoses. There is a leak in the tank or tank accessories if you see bubbles.
Check that the cylinder valve is closed before tightening the connection hoses and repeating the testing procedure. If bubbles continue to appear, there is a leak. Call or notify the emergency services of the situation.
Conclusion
Be extremely cautious if you decide to relocate your propane tank(s) yourself. When selecting “What to do with propane tank when moving?” consider all viable choices – return the tank for cash, sell it to somebody in your local area, dispose of it before the move, or transport it to your new home – and choose the one that works best for you. Best of luck!
If still, you go through any doubts regarding moving, then feel free to ask or contact us anytime. Our expert team of Team Removals will surely clear your doubt.
Contact us now through:
Call: +1-6479322202
Mail: info@teamremovals.ca
