Does Lowes Fill Propane Tanks? (Find Out Now!)

Propane tanks come in handy for cooking, grilling, heating your home, and much more. However, if your tank suddenly runs out of propane you may find yourself wondering: Does Lowes refill propane tanks?

Lowes does not fill empty propane tanks, but they do offer an exchange service that allows customers to swap out their old, empty propane tank for a full one at a reduced rate. While many view refilling propane tanks as financially advantageous, most stores do not offer this option because of the safety concerns.

With that said, let’s explore the differences between refilling and exchanging propane tanks, how much it costs to exchange one at Lowes, and how the process works.

The process of refilling and the process of exchanging a propane tank are very similar. You go to the filling station with an empty tank, pay for the propane, and then leave with a full propane tank. However, the difference between the two processes impacts the cost of the service.

When refilling a propane tank, you leave with the same propane tank that you originally purchased, unless the tank is expired or too unsafe to be refilled. However, when you exchange a propane tank, you leave with an entirely different tank. These tanks are inspected for safety before the exchange takes place.

If your propane tank is nearing its expiration date, this is one way you can extend the life of your propane. In terms of price, it is cheaper to refill a propane tank than to exchange one. This has to do with the fact that you are only paying for the propane going into the tank. With exchanges, you also pay for the inspection and the new tank.

Instead of filling propane tanks, Lowes has an exchange service where customers can bring in their old tanks and swap them out for a full one at a reduced price. They partner with a third-party supplier that sells a refilled tank to you at a lower price, instead of them buying empty tanks and having them filled.

Lowes does not fill propane tanks because their stores do not have the necessary equipment to fill the propane gas at high pressure. Additionally, by not offering refill services, Lowes can charge more for their exchange service, increasing overall profit.

Lowes customers pay an average of $19.97 to have their old, empty 20-pound propane tanks exchanged with a filled one. This is the most common propane tank size, and also the easiest to exchange. Though, the price will vary depending on where you live and if there’s a seasonal sale currently going on.

Additionally, if you’re able to find a valid coupon, you may be able to exchange your propane tank for as little as $12.97. Without any pertinent discounts, you’ll pay between $5 and $6 a gallon when exchanging a propane tank. This is only slightly more expensive than having the tank refilled through a different provider.

Though, the accessibility of Lowes’ stores makes the exchange option more convenient for many and also a great value for your money.

Related Questions

Do propane tanks expire?

Propane tanks with a capacity of 100 pounds or less have an expiration date of 12 years from the date of manufacture. Once the tank reaches its expiration date, you can exchange the tank for a replacement or have it inspected and requalified for five more years of use.

Does Walmart refill propane tanks?

Walmart stores and employees do not have the necessary equipment to refill propane tanks. However, like Lowes, you can exchange empty propane tanks at Walmart for full ones. The propane tank brand that Walmart sells and exchanges in-store is Amerigas.

How do I know how much propane is left in my tank?

Propane tanks are typically market with an empty, or “tare,” weight. This weight is usually between 17 and 19 pounds. When filled, a standard sized propane tank will hold 20 pounds of propane.So, in order to find out how much propane is left in your tank, place it on a scale to determine the total weight. Then, subtract the “tare” weight from this number to yield how much is left.

How often should you refill your propane tank for a house?

Although there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, the average homeowner can expect to refill their propane tank at least two times a year. However, the speed at which you use up your propane will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your home, the number of occupants, and the number of appliances that use propane.