A disposable costs more than $5 on average, equating to more than 31 cents per ounce. If you paid that much to fill your smaller RV cylinder, each fill would cost $100. There are numerous adapters available that allow you to fill a disposable propane container from a refillable propane container. Even if you paid $3 per gallon for propane, your refilling cost per disposable would be a pitiful 71 cents, according to the math.
However, there’s another factor to consider: how much is your safety worth? Disposable propane cylinders differ significantly from their bigger, refillable counterparts. The disposable type’s metal walls are thin, and frequent contraction and expansion might result in metal fatigue and ultimately rupture. Similarly, unlike an LP cylinder designed to be refilled, a disposable’s valve is not built for repeated usage “Overfilling is a major problem because there is no “bleeder” valve to indicate when the disposable is full to the safe point. And, while many people have no trouble refilling their disposable cylinders, how much are you ready to bet that you can get away with it?
There’s also a financial factor to consider. While refilling a throwaway cylinder is theoretically lawful, moving it on a public highway is a another story. Transportation of refilled containers is prohibited by federal laws (regulated by the US Department of Transportation) “39” DOT cylinders (of which classification small cylinders fall under). If you break that rule, you might face a fine of up to $500,000 and five years in prison.
SO, WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? Give up those convenient one-pound cylinders for the sake of the environment? Replace the disposables at the risk of your life? Enter a different option: One-pound cylinders that can be safely and legally refilled. Flame King now offers refillable cylinders as well as a refill kit to pump your own. Heavy-duty cylinders are fitted with a “80 percent valve,” which shows when the safe “full” point has been achieved.
What is the mechanism behind it? A platform is included with the refill system, on which you can safely lay an inverted 20-pound cylinder. That cylinder is connected to a refillable cylinder through an adaptor. You split open the bleeder valve with an Allen wrench and press a dispensing lever on the adapter. You let up on the fill lever when liquid propane starts to spit out of the bleeder valve, seal the bleeder valve, and disconnect the refilled cylinder. Users are pleased to remark that, unlike throwaway cylinder refills, getting a full cylinder is simple, with no need to place it in the freezer to encourage a full fill. The entire process is shown in a video available on YouTube.
To calculate your break-even point, you’ll need to run the numbers. The entire package, which includes the refill system and a single, one-pound refillable cylinder, costs around $50; additional cylinders cost $14. Yes, the initial outlay may appear to be prohibitive; however, if you’re paying $5 per throwaway, it’s easy to calculate the financial and environmental benefits. In comparison to the inherent dangers of replenishing disposables, the Flame King system appears to be a clear winner.
Is it possible to refuel Coleman tiny propane tanks?
Camping with Coleman propane gas canisters is a great idea. They’re used to power portable propane camping lamps and outdoor cooktops. While these canisters are typically thrown away once they’ve been emptied, they can be refilled with a 20-pound propane tank.
Is it safe to refill 1lb propane tanks?
Yes, refilling 1lb throwaway green propane bottles is perfectly safe. It’s only dangerous if you don’t have the right tools or if you’re smoking while doing it.
Is it possible to refill 14-ounce propane tanks?
Disclaimer: There is always a risk when propane is present. You must understand that if you opt to replenish your propane tanks yourself, you do it at your own risk. The refilling of these cylinders is not permitted by the Department of Transportation. This implies you won’t be able to replenish your cylinders at a nearby propane-equipped service station. It’s against the law to do so. Refilled cylinders, on the other hand, cannot be sold commercially. Refilled cylinders cannot be transported across state lines by commercial operators. Refilling these cylinders comes with a slew of restrictions and potential risks. It is, however, totally lawful to refill them for personal use.
When refilling your disposable propane cylinders, there are several safety considerations to take, and you must handle it carefully and follow all best-practice safety protocols.
Again, I cannot be held liable for any mishaps that may occur when you refill your own disposable propane tank.
How long will a Coleman 16 oz propane tank last?
When used with a tiny 75,00 BTU stove and both burners on high flame, the most commonly used Coleman propane tank the 16.4oz or 1lb small tank will last for two hours.
22,000 BTUs are contained in a 16.4 oz propane tank. To figure out how long it will last with certain equipment, divide 22,000 by the BTU consumption per hour of the equipment, and you’ll have the number of hours your 16.4Oz propane tank will last (this is a very rough calculation and the actual burn time greatly depends on the efficiency of the equipment.)
What may a little green propane tank be used for?
Yes, after a cylinder is empty, it can be thrown away with regular garbage. Individuals can rest easy knowing that the Green Key tool has opened the cylinder and discharged any lingering odors before discarding it. Is it possible to refill or recycle an empty propane cylinder?
Is it possible to use camping propane as a torch?
If you want to use a camping butane tank in a torch, make sure the torch can function with a butane tank first. You won’t be able to use camping butane with a torch that isn’t a butane torch!
Because this is a bit of a constraint, I recommend using camping propane rather than butane. Butane is also unsuitable for usage during the colder months of the year. When using butane to power equipment in the cold, you’ll have some issues, especially with camping stoves.
Stick to the Coleman cylinders that contain camping propane to avoid this problem. Everything from boiling water to powering a heater or a lantern may be done with them. If you plan on going on a longer camping trip, it could be a good idea to bring a multi-pack of these cylinders with you.
Is it possible to refuel my Bernzomatic propane torch?
The Bernzomatic Butane Refill 5.6 oz cylinder is designed to refill Bernzomatic micro torches, lighters, cordless soldering irons, and other butane-powered equipment quickly. It has a universal fueling tip that makes refilling a breeze. The in-air flame temperature of butane fuel is 3,150 degrees Fahrenheit.
Is it possible to refill Bernzomatic tanks?
It’s not only risky, but if you’re caught transporting refilled cylinders, you might face a hefty fine and/or time in prison.
Fortunately, these cylinders are significantly less expensive than the 20-pound tanks commonly found in full-size grills and RVs. Though you can’t refill them, keeping a couple on hand isn’t too expensive.
- Connect the cylinder to your smartphone and turn it on till the flame goes out.
- Call the recycler and describe your cylinder(s) to be sure they’ll take them.
- As needed, prepare the tank. It’s possible that you’ll have to puncture the canister and label it “Empty” first.
