You can’t wait to get the grill started! Your friends and family are waiting on your world famous ribs, but as you get ready to start up the grill you discover that your 20 pound BBQ propane tank is empty. Now what?! Sounds like it’s time to a trip to your local Combined Energy Services tank filling station.

Here are a few tips to make that trip safe:

NEVER transport a leaking cylinder;
Make sure the tank valve is closed;
Secure cylinders in an upright position in the back of the vehicle (milk crate, cardboard box, bungee cord);
Do NOT leave cylinders in your vehicle for an extended time.

How much propane can I transport in the back of my car?

U.S. Legal limits for closed-bodied vehicles:
- No more than four (4) 20 pound cylinders
- No cylinders larger than 45 pound capacity
- No more than 90 pounds total propane weight

What’s the best way to store my small propane tank?

Store your small propane cylinder outside, away from combustible material
Keep the cylinders upright

Check your tank date. On the collar of the tank, there is a date stamped into the metal. Your tank is good for 12 years after that date. If your tank has been recertified and has a label date, the tank is good for 5 years after that date.

Cylinder Recertification: Don’t throw out your cylinder if it’s over 12 years from date of manufacture – we can recertify qualifying outdated cylinders at all CES / All Gas locations.

In addition, we safely recycle cylinders that fail DOT inspections or have been damaged for no cost to remove from the waste stream at any of our locations.

Remember most our Combined Energy Services & AllGas Welding locations also sell extra tanks. So buy yourself a spare tank and always be ready when it’s time to start grillin’!

Safety Guide for Portable Propane Cylinders by the Propane Research & Education Council

Handling & Transporting Small Cylinders video by the Propane Research & Education Council