lrrowe wrote:I have the small tanks and I loved it when I could use it. It was great for portable usage. But it is now over 12 years old and the propane stations will not fill it anymore per the law. So now the high price becomes a serious "con". I am looking into refilling it myself but I realize that can be a risky process and I am not sure if I want to take that on. But then if you take the $59 and divide it over 12 years, then the $5.00 per year for this convenience is not so bad. Everything seems to be a compromise these days.
I'm pretty sure most propane dealers can recertify a cylinder. It is a simple matter of inspection. If the cylinder still has good paint, is not dented, or rusted/pitted severely especially around the collar or footring, it can be recertified for another 5 years, & another 5 years after that, & on & on, as long as it will pass inspection. Propane cylinders are certified for 12 years from date of manufacture, at which time they must either be 'salvaged' or recertified. Recertification (in the USA) is good for 5 years.
I have an 11# cylinder I bought when I built my TD in 2006. Think I paid around $35-40 for it. When it's 12years old I'll certainly have it recertified. Last one I had recertified cost I believe ten bucks or so (20# cylinder) which surely beats buying a new one for upwards of $70...