Buyer Beware: The Propane Tank Exchange Scam Is Back This Summer:
Summer means grilling season, backyard barbecues, and plenty of time outdoors. But before you head to a big box store for a propane tank exchange, there’s something you need to know. A growing number of consumers are sounding the alarm about what many are calling the propane tank exchange scam—and it’s costing people money without them even realizing it.
The Propane Tank Exchange: What’s Really Happening?
If you’ve ever exchanged your empty propane tank at a major retailer like Home Depot, Lowe’s, or similar big box stores, you may think you’re getting a full 20-pound tank. But here’s the truth: most of these exchange services only provide 15 pounds of propane in a 20-pound tank. That’s right—you’re paying nearly full price but getting significantly less fuel.
This short-fill practice is the heart of the propane tank exchange scam, and it’s leaving countless customers frustrated. Imagine paying for a gallon of milk and only getting three-quarters. You’d be upset, right? The same concept applies here, but because propane tanks aren’t transparent, most people don’t even realize they’re getting shorted.
Why You Should Avoid Big Box Stores:
While it’s certainly convenient to swing by your local big box store to swap out a tank, that convenience comes at a cost. Customers across the country are catching on and realizing that these chain retailers are engaging in what many call the propane tank exchange scam by short-filling tanks and still charging a premium price.
Companies like Blue Rhino and AmeriGas—commonly found at stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s—are among the most frequently mentioned in these complaints. Their standard exchange tanks are labeled clearly: 15 pounds of propane, not 20. That means you’re losing 25% of your potential grilling time every time you swap a tank.
The Better Alternative: Fill by the Gallon:
The good news? You don’t have to fall for the propane tank exchange scam. There’s a smarter, more cost-effective solution: have your propane tank filled by the gallon instead of exchanging it.
When you visit a local propane refill station—such as Tractor Supply Co., many hardware stores, or independent propane dealers, you’re typically getting a true fill. These businesses often charge you only for the propane they put in, meaning you get exactly what you pay for. Plus, if your tank isn’t completely empty, you won’t lose the leftover gas as you would in a traditional exchange.
Keep More Money in Your Pocket:
Avoiding the propane tank exchange scam isn’t just about getting more fuel—it’s also about keeping your hard-earned money where it belongs. Paying for a full tank but only receiving 15 pounds of propane adds up over time. Make the switch to refilling, and you’ll notice the savings instantly.
So this summer, don’t let big box stores take you for a ride. Ditch the propane tank exchange scam and look for local refill stations that let you pay by the gallon. You’ll grill longer, spend less, and finally get what you’re paying for.
