Is It Cheaper to Refill Propane or Exchange a Tank?
Refilling a propane tank is almost always cheaper than exchanging it. A 20-pound tank typically costs $13 to $25 to refill, depending on the per-gallon price, and you get a full 4.7 gallons. Exchange cylinders usually cost about the same or more but are often filled with less propane.
Why does refilling usually cost less than exchanging?
Refilling costs less because you pay only for the propane you put in, priced per gallon, typically $2.80 to $4.00 at refill stations. An exchange charges a flat price per cylinder that covers the fuel plus the handling, inspection and swap service.
This is one part of a bigger topic; for the complete picture, see our guide on how much is it to fill a propane tank.
Many exchange cylinders are also sold as “15 pound” tanks rather than the full 20 pounds, which is about 3.5 gallons instead of 4.7. A flat price of $20 to $25 for that smaller fill works out to a much higher cost per gallon than a refill.
Refill vs. exchange: cost side by side
| Factor | Refill | Exchange |
|---|---|---|
| Typical price, 20-lb tank | $13 to $25 | Often $20 to $25+ |
| Propane you receive | Up to about 4.7 gal (20 lb) | Often about 3.5 gal (15 lb) |
| Pricing method | Per gallon, varies by seller | Flat fee per cylinder |
| Tank you keep | Your own | A swapped one, any brand |
| Speed | A few minutes, often with an attendant | Fastest, often self-serve cage |
Prices vary by location and change over time, so check the posted rate before you go.
A worked example
Say refill propane costs $3.50 per gallon and an exchange costs $23 for a 15-pound cylinder.
- Refill: 4.7 gallons × $3.50 = about $16.45 for a full 20-pound tank.
- Exchange: 3.5 gallons for $23 works out to about $6.57 per gallon.
That is roughly $6.50 saved per fill, and nearly double the fuel price per gallon with an exchange. If you grill monthly, that adds up to about $80 a year.
When is an exchange the better choice?
An exchange wins when convenience matters more than price, or when you can’t get a refill. It makes sense in these cases:
- Your tank is expired or damaged. A standard cylinder needs requalification 12 years after manufacture, and many refill stations will not fill an expired tank.
- No refill station is nearby, but a grocery or hardware store has an exchange cage open 24 hours.
- You want a swap in under a minute during a camping trip or party.
- Your tank is rusty or dented, and you would rather hand it off than pay to replace it.
Hidden costs to watch
- Minimum or flat fees: some stations charge a set price even for a partial fill.
- Membership: Costco and BJ’s refill prices are often the lowest, but require a membership.
- Tank purchase: if you don’t own a refillable tank, a new one runs about $28 to $55 once.
- Underfilled exchange tanks: a lower fill at the same price is the biggest hidden cost.
- Inspection or disposal fees: an old tank may be turned away or incur a fee.
Tips before you pay
- Check the label on an exchange cage or box for the stated pounds of propane, not just the price.
- Compare cost per gallon, not total price. Divide the price by the gallons you receive.
- Look at the date stamped on your tank collar. If it is more than 12 years old, expect to have it requalified or replaced.
- Call ahead to confirm hours and current per-gallon price; some stores fill only on certain days.
- Ask for a fill by weight or gallon limit, not a flat fee, and have the attendant stop at the legal maximum (80% of capacity).
- Do not overfill yourself or transport a tank lying down; keep it upright and secured in a ventilated vehicle.
FAQ
– How much does it cost to get a 20lb propane tank filled?
Typically $13 to $25. Warehouse clubs tend to be lowest at about $13 to $15, while U-Haul charges roughly $14 to $19. The final cost depends on your local per-gallon price.
– How much does Walmart charge to refill propane?
Walmart generally offers exchange rather than refills at most stores, so you would pay a flat cylinder price. The exact amount varies by location, so check the price at your store.
– Can I refill an exchange tank at a refill station?
Yes, if it is a standard refillable cylinder in good condition and in date. Some stations will fill a 15-pound exchange cylinder, but only up to its legal limit.
– How much does it cost to fill a 100-pound propane tank?
You may also find this useful: How Much Does It Cost to Get a 20-lb Propane Tank Filled?.
Roughly $60 to $120, since it holds about 23.6 gallons. The price depends on the local per-gallon rate and any minimum fees.
