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Another way to save BIG on Gas
With gas prices out of control lately, we’re all looking for ways to save money anywhere we can. We have a very simple solution that anyone who needs propane can use. You may use propane primarily for your gas grill, but there are countless needs for propane (lawnmowers, outdoor heaters, cooking appliances, generators, etc.).
on the ⛵
Our sailboat uses propane – for the stove / oven and for the heater. Because our ‘new-to-us’ boat was used, we had no idea how full the propane tanks were. We wanted to make sure that we had them both filled on our journey home.
The week before we set sail, we drove up to Cheboygan, Michigan to clean and get SV Zeke E Boy ready to hit the water. We took as many unnecessary items off the boat, but also brought additional tools and equipment onto the boat – just in case we would need to fix something.
Fill ‘er Up
One of the items that we removed were the 2 propane tanks. We brought them home, and found a place to fill them up, our local Ace hardware store. It was cheap! Way less expensive than a regular 20# propane gas exchange tank from Lowes, Menards or the local gas station.
Exchange vs. Refill
We decided that any time we needed to refill propane tanks, we would no longer buy a propane exchange tank to swap out the empty with the full one, but that we would take it to our Ace hardware for a refill instead.
Not only was this a less expensive option, but we also would know exactly how much propane was in the tank. With the propane exchange, it is possible that these tanks are not completely filled up, so this is another reason making it a more cost-effective option.
Is there any danger? 💀🔥
A propane tank can explode, but it is extremely rare. In fact, there are safety mechanisms in place to prevent explosions, accidents and tank ruptures. It is important to follow safety guidelines to handle the tanks correctly when using propane gas to prevent these accidents from occurring.
- Don’t leave the propane tank open. After use, be sure to close the propane tank.
- Don’t ignite the gas supply directly or store the container near open flames.
- Don’t store the grill indoors or even in a garage, but don’t store it directly in the sun either. The safest place is stored outdoors and in the shade.
- Check the connections and hoses for leaks. Do not replace them unless you are a licensed, certified service technician.
- Always keep the containers upright; make sure it doesn’t roll around in the car when refilling it either.
- Don’t keep the filled container in a hot vehicle.
If you smell gas, immediately extinguish all open flames and smoking materials. Make sure everyone is moved out of the area where the gas is leaking. If it is safe, turn off the gas supply valve, and call 911.
Propane Gas Detector
Gas and fire are generally not good things for a boat. Thankfully, our boat is properly equipped to handle these items safely. The previous owners witnessed a boat explosion and were extremely cautious and concerned with this occurring to them. Therefore, they installed a propane gas detector, which will sound an alarm if the presence of propane is detected. These detectors can provide an additional measure of security if you are concerned about working with propane.
Tell Us what you think
If you tried this solution or have any other tips for saving money on gas, please share your feedback in the comments. We’d love to hear from you!
– Kara from Zeke Life
Live like Zeke
You’re such a good boy!
