Refilling a propane tank is a common chore for many a homeowner, RV adventurer, griller, and small business owner, but the price varies enormously based on tank size, location, and refilling method. Whether you’re fueling a backyard BBQ, warming your house, or running equipment, understanding the cost of propane tank refill beforehand makes you a better planner and prevents you from paying more than you have to. This manual goes in-depth on refill prices by tank size, regional price variations, and refills vs. exchanges cost comparisons. We’ll also briefly discuss seasonality, provider types, and value tips—so you can make wiser, more cost-effective propane choices every time.
Prices of refills differ greatly depending on the size of the tank. Knowing what each of these sizes usually costs allows you to budget and select the appropriate tank for your needs.
Expect to pay about $15–$20 to top off a 20 lb grilling tank, based on recent averages. These tanks hold roughly 4.7 gallons when filled to 80% capacity, the legal safety limit for propane. You’ll commonly find these in backyard grills and patio heaters. Refilling instead of exchanging can save around $5 per fill.
Refill prices rise in proportion. An example is a 33 lb cylinder that usually costs around $22–$30 depending on supplier and location. They are typical in food wagons, construction, and cabins off the grid. Refilling rather than replacing maintains residual propane and leaves the tank full.
Refueling a 100 lb tank (approximately 25 gallons) usually costs approximately $70 at refill locations. Handling may cost extra with some suppliers because of the size of the tank. These tanks power small home appliances such as fireplaces or water heaters. Refilling instead of replacing results in less frequent trips and greater savings in the long term.
Home or RV tanks sized 100–250 gallons usually cost a couple hundred dollars to refill, usually $200–$300 for a 250-gallon unit. This refilling fee depends on regional rates and delivery fees. In rural regions, you could enjoy better bulk prices from neighborhood dealers.
Refilling to 80% capacity (~400 gallons) is approximately $750 to $1,000 depending on prevailing market prices. They are the norm for warming houses in winter. Refilling during summer months usually yields substantial savings.
For bulk tanks or home heating tanks that are larger, prices range from $1,500–$2,000 fill depending on gallon price and delivery. These tanks are standard in big residential establishments or commercial farms. Bulk delivery is sometimes negotiable at contract prices.
Your whereabouts contribute a lot to the cost of refilling propane tanks. Urban vs. country-wide access, season, and provider type will influence to what extent you will be billed per gallon.
U‑Haul sites generally charge between $3.00–$4.00 per gallon for refills, while exchanges cost $5–6 per gallon. This is more valuable if you have your tank. Most customers opt for U-Haul for easy availability and clear-cut pricing. Refill-only fees are generally lower and predictable.
Refill prices by local propane sellers can differ geographically and by seasonal demand, but frequently are equal to or better than national averages, particularly in rural locations. Some even provide loyalty rewards or lower prices for slower periods. Buying locally also ensures quicker service and familiarity.
Propane costs increase in colder months because of higher heating loads; summer fill-ups are less expensive and more plentiful. If you can strategically time your fill-ups at the end of spring or the beginning of fall, you might be able to miss peak price increases. Off-season fill-ups make budgeting easier.
Hardware stores or home improvement chains tend to resort to exchange programs, which are more expensive ($5–$6/gal) than refill and have you lose unused propane. It’s convenience versus value. They are ubiquitous but with less control over what you are really getting.
Certain local businesses post per-gallon fill prices, e.g., $4.05/gal and flat rates for particular sizes such as 100 lb tanks (~$93). You might have to call first for correct rates, but these places usually eschew markup pricing found in heavy-traffic business districts.
In Canada, a 20 lb refill will cost around $18–$30 CAD, depending on where you buy it (e.g., Costco, Canadian Tire, equivalents of U-Haul). Exchange rates and variations in provincial taxes might vary overall cost. Be sure to look for specials or membership discounts (such as Costco).
Refilling will save you a minimum of $1–$2 per gallon over exchange programs, so it’s more cost-effective for frequent users. Over the course of a grilling season, that really adds up. Refilling also means you’re not paying for propane you don’t need.
Refill stations fill your tank right up to the safe 80% capacity, while exchanges deliver only around 15 lbs in 20 lb tanks, around 30% less gas. That lost gas translates into fewer cookouts or shorter heat cycles. Refilling assures a more favorable cost-to-volume ratio.
Refilling, you retain any unused propane in your tank. Exchanges usually leave any residual fuel behind when tanks are exchanged. That waste becomes pricey in the long run—particularly if you exchange half-full tanks on a regular basis.
Exchanges (Blue Rhino, Retail stores) provide convenience and weekend hours, yet refill stations possibly have reduced hours but reduced cost. Refilling is a little more planned out but gives you higher value. Consider your usage pattern when deciding.
Exchange providers check and re-certify tanks, but refill-only spots may not. Keep recertification requirements in mind if your tank’s expiration is approaching (~12 years).
You’ll have to have old tanks requalified at a cost of $10–$25, but keep your equipment safe and in compliance.
Having a tank and refilling allows you complete freedom to pick the lowest-cost supplier. Exchange services tie you to one brand and price plan. If you shop around or refill on a seasonal basis, this liberty can save you lots of money throughout the year.
When you arrive at a refill station, anticipate first a safety check (dents, rust, certifications). The tank will be filled to the industry norm of 80%—leaving room for thermal growth and lowering risk. For 20 lb and 100 lb cylinders, turnaround will be less than 10 minutes. For bigger household tanks, a delivery technician can refill at your house with equipment. Always haul your tank level and cool, and check local regulations regarding handling and storage.
Begin by knowing how much your tank is capable of and what is currently in it. Then divide by the per-gallon price at your favorite station or delivery service. Don’t forget any flat service or delivery charge. Shop around several sources; U-Haul locations, neighborhood suppliers, farm stores, to compare the nearest propane tank refill price. Some offer online quotes or apps to notify you of current prices.
Whether topping off a grill cylinder or refilling a 500-gallon residential tank, knowing the cost of a propane tank refill both saves time and money. Refilling typically costs $3–$5 per gallon and beats exchange prices, particularly if you are the owner of the tank. Seasonal rates apply and location plays a role, always shop around and select refill options where you maintain ownership, only pay for propane consumed, and don’t waste unused fuel. Refilling properly is both efficient and cost-saving.
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