250 gallon propane tanks, used OK?

rich_ncal · Aug 31, 2009

I am thinking of buying a propane tank instead of leasing. I have found a 250 gallon propane tank built in 1991 that the seller says is form a foreclosed home. Is there any reason not to buy a 1991 propane tank?

The seller has a friend from a propane company that will install the tank. Other than cleaning and a little paint, what other upkeep costs are there be for an 18 year old tank?

George2615 · Aug 31, 2009

Propane Co. will probably need to pressure test the tank. I know they do on anything smaller. And may even check to make sure seller is the owner and not a stolen tank. I don't know what you are paying for this tank but have you priced a new one.

scott_vt · Aug 31, 2009

Good Evenin Rich,
I bought a 330 gal a dew years back for my Vt residence, and it was 20 years old then. No problems, as George stated, the propane company will pressure test the tank as routine maintainance anyway !

Mine was half full when I bought it from the farmer up the road. and i think I payed $400 for the whole thing, plus between the both of us, we did the install.

2manyrocks · Aug 31, 2009

I would check with your propane supplier to see what they require before they'll fill it.

You might want to check for any company labels and serial nos. on it to try to make sure it isn't a leased tank and that it is an owner tank. If you can find a company name on it to call with the serial no., that is the information you would need.

jayste · Sep 1, 2009

I've got one that came with the house and I'm sure it's at least 25-30 years old. No problems to date. Propane company didn't even question it. Just came and filled it. Of course our delivery driver is pretty down to earth. I'm sure there were things he looked for when he first came out but didn't mention and I didn't ask.

Jay