Safety is the top priority when using a flammable substance like propane, so there are strict regulations for the tanks engineered to hold the gas. Some of the most impactful regulations in place are those that cover the tank’s structural integrity. For example, a propane tank must display certain markings that verify its functionality as a gas storage and distribution system. Knowing where to find these markings and how to read them is essential. However, differences in style and varying laws complicate the situation. 

The markings on small propane tanks — such as those used for gas grills and portable stoves — are different from those on larger tanks used to heat a home or other building. Adding to the confusion, some states have passed marking laws that differ from the federal mandate. Regardless of the type and regulating entity, all propane tanks have markings that look like expiration dates. 

While it is true that the numbers are dates, a propane tank does not technically have an expiration. Instead, the numbers provide information about when the tank was manufactured and when it needs to be inspected for safety. In this post, we’ll shed some light on what the expiration date numbers mean, where you can locate them and what to do when the date arrives.

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Home Propane Tanks —  How Long Do They Last?

Depending on the type, a propane tank can last a decade or longer. Large, stationary propane tanks last up to 30 years with proper maintenance and recertification. A smaller propane tank for a grill can last up to 12 years. The long lifespan is convenient because there is no propane shelf life. 

How Long Does Propane Last?

Propane does not expire — the gas will survive in its tank indefinitely. Its longevity makes it a great fuel source, but it also reinforces the need to implement safety measures during the tank’s lifespan. A propane tank’s markings help keep track of safety requirements. 

What Is a Propane Tank’s Expiration Date?

A propane tank’s expiration date is actually an origin date. Large and small propane tanks alike each feature a numerical marking that indicates their month and year of manufacturing. The locations differ for each type. 

Knowing the manufacturing date helps to determine if it has undergone the requalification process. A propane tank must be requalified a specific number of years after its manufacturing date. Requalification certifies that the tank and its components are structurally sound. After the first requalification, the tank must be requalified again every five or 10 years. 

propane tank

Where Is the Expiration Date on a Propane Tank?

A propane tank’s date of manufacture or requalification date can be found stamped onto its collar. It will be in a month-year format — for instance, 06-21 for June 2021. To determine when your tank expires, simply add 12 years to the stamped date.

How Long Are Small Propane Tanks Good For?

Propane tanks of 100-pound capacity or less have a requalification date of 12 years from the date of manufacture. Once those 12 years are up, you can either exchange the tank for a replacement or have it inspected for requalification for an additional five years of use. 

We offer portable tank recertification for 30-100 pound tanks at our Forest, Rustburg, Lovingston and Danville showrooms. The recertification process usually takes 24-48 hours. If the cylinder is worthy of recertification, a trained Foster Fuels employee will complete a visual inspection and leak test. They will capture all tank information in a formal requalification log. If the cylinder is damaged, we can deny recertification.

How Long Are Home Propane Tanks Good For?

In most states, large propane tanks used for home heat and hot water are governed by federal container laws. These laws dictate that a propane tank can only be filled by its owner or someone authorized to act for them. In practice, this means most home propane users lease their tank from a fuel supplier, who assumes responsibility for keeping track of its expiry date.

Federal container laws, as well as other regulations governing smaller propane tank expiry dates, have been endorsed by leading industry groups such as the National Propane Gas Association. Given the specialized nature of propane fuel and the need for well-maintained, reliable tanks, these laws help enforce a standard of safety that protects all users.

How Do I Know If My Propane Tank Has Been Requalified?

Tanks that have been requalified will have an E or H after the date. Don’t confuse the date with the tank weight rating, which is also stamped onto its collar. Tare weighting is always prefaced by the letters TW, i.e. TW18 for an 18 lb. tank.

Contact Foster Fuels for Propane Tank Recertification

Contact Foster Fuels For Propane Tank Recertification

Is your propane tank expired or do you have additional questions? Get in touch with Foster Fuels to speak with a representative directly and give us a call at 800-344-6457.

Frequently Asked Questions

Consider these frequently asked questions about propane tank expiration — or requalification — dates. 

1. What To Do If Your Propane Tank Is Expired?

For smaller propane tanks that have reached the 12-year manufactured date, you can either exchange them for new ones or have them inspected for prequalification for an additional five years of use. 

If a 20-pound cylinder is outside of the 12-year manufactured date, it needs to be taken to a propane exchange facility. It can be exchanged for a lower cost than having it recertified. These cylinders can be purchased from one of our showrooms, but be sure to call ahead to check availability. 

2. How To Read The Date On a Propane Tank?

The manufacture date will be stamped on the propane tank’s collar. It will be in month-year format. If your tank was built in September of 2023, it would read as “09-23.” You will also find a unique identification number on the collar as well.

3. How To Dispose Of Old Propane Tanks?

When disposing of old propane tanks, you need to contact the tank supplier for proper handling. If your propane supplier can’t take the old cylinders, reach out to your local household hazardous waste collection for assistance. For those in southern Virginia, we can help with the disposal process. 

4. How To Get Your Propane Tank Recertified?

To ensure the safety and compliance of your propane tank, it’s important to get it recertified on a regular basis. Wondering how to get your propane tank recertified? Simply contact your local office to schedule an appointment. When you bring your tank in for recertification, the staff will inspect it thoroughly. Once it passes the inspection, staff will affix a sticker on your tank with the inspection date and recertification date. This way, you can have peace of mind knowing that your propane tank is in good working condition.

For any questions or to schedule your recertification appointment, give us a call at 800-344-6457 or reach out to Foster Fuels directly. We’re here to help!

5. How Much Does It Cost To Recertify A Propane Tank?

Propane recertification will vary from state to state and company to company. On average, recertification can cost anywhere from $20-$60.

6. How Often Do Propane Tanks Need To Be Certified?

While new propane tanks are typically qualified for 12 years from the manufacture date in the United States, recertified tanks are usually good for only 5-7 years depending on the method of recertification.

7. Does Propane Go Bad?

No, propane does not go bad. Unlike other fuels, propane does not degrade or go bad over time. In other words, there is no shelf life of propane.

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