Can't find tanks ?

[RobC]

I have been calling around for the last few weeks looking for 2 X 500 gallon USED propane tanks. I have my name in at a couple of scrap yards that do get tanks in but they don't have anything at this time. If anyone knows where I can get 2 tanks could you PM me. I'm able to do the pick up in my truck and willing to go some miles ( RI, CT, NH, VT, ME southern & eastern upstate NY ) for them. Thanks in advance, Rob.

 

[sdrobertson]

One tip when your inquiring at salvage yards, mention that you will not be using them for propane and the tanks do not have to still have the tags on them. This might open up the search to a larger number of tanks available.

 

[Gooserider]

I have been calling around for the last few weeks looking for 2 X 500 gallon USED propane tanks. I have my name in at a couple of scrap yards that do get tanks in but they don't have anything at this time. If anyone knows where I can get 2 tanks could you PM me. I'm able to do the pick up in my truck and willing to go some miles ( RI, CT, NH, VT, ME southern & eastern upstate NY ) for them. Thanks in advance, Rob.

I notice that you are in MA - have you talked to your local code inspector and gotten his OK on using propane tanks (especially ones w/o tags) for this application? Note that MA is one of the few states that is really nasty about code on boilers etc, and requires an ASME "H" stamped boiler, and that all "pressure vessels" in the system be ASME approved... As I understand it, you can get away with an "Open" system of the European design with an open to the air, but high mounted expansion tank, giving you pressure via the water column, but otherwise you may have some real issues to deal with. I would STRONGLY advise talking to your local code guy before putting down any cash...

Gooserider

 

[sdrobertson]

[quote author="Gooserider" date="1250141143
I notice that you are in MA - have you talked to your local code inspector and gotten his OK on using propane tanks (especially ones w/o tags) for this application? Note that MA is one of the few states that is really nasty about code on boilers etc, and requires an ASME "H" stamped boiler, and that all "pressure vessels" in the system be ASME approved... As I understand it, you can get away with an "Open" system of the European design with an open to the air, but high mounted expansion tank, giving you pressure via the water column, but otherwise you may have some real issues to deal with. I would STRONGLY advise talking to your local code guy before putting down any cash...

Gooserider[/quote]

Good catch, I missed the "MA" and now I remember your prior posts.....

 

[RobC]

I was going to do the open expansion tank design. All my plumbing is in the basement, radiant basement floor, water to air coil in air handler and DHW. I was planning on putting the expansion tank on the first floor. This is a good way to avoid the cost of a large expansion tank it seems too. The MA is part of the problem I have no doubt. Liability is what I hear most of the time. I can get new but would rather not spend $1200 to $1300 if I can find used decent tanks for $200+ and go for a drive. Thanks for the advice and the words of caution. Any other points of interest to be informed of when doing an open tank design ? Rob

 

[leaddog]

I know it is a long drive but I have 500 gal tanks here in Michigan for $250. A truck and trailer can get 4 to 6 or so. Maybe teem up with some others. I'll sell four or more for $200 ea. I even have a few with tags but are sold for scrap tanks only. not for propane. pm me if interested
leaddog

 

[RobC]

Thanks for the reply but that's a bit too far. 900 mi. I will keep it in mind. Any body in else in the area want to do a joint venture ?

 

[2.beans]

i can get you one about 15 minutes of concord NH, if youre interested pm me and ill find out what hes asking.

 

[Kipstr]

Call Blue Flame Gas in Barre VT and ask for Mike 802-479-3306. Last year I got my 250 gal. tanks for $200 each.

 

[Rugar]

It appears you have stacked 250's. Are you pleased with that setup. Can you get much storage time.

 

[Kipstr]

This time of the year 4 days for my hot water. My wife is a big user of HOT water. Normal use should be 5+ days. Last winter I would start the fire at 4 PM burn till 10-11 PM and storage would carry over till next night. My 500 gal. storage I would consider to be the minimum. (I have a large house)