What You’ll Learn
What are the usage and valve types of propane tanks?
Single-use and multi-use are the two types of propane usage tanks. Most homeowners use multi-use propane tanks for their consistent fuel source.
There are three main valve types: POL, ACME, and OPD valves. POL valves are rare today because they are the oldest kind. OPD are the newest and safest valves in the current market.
In this blog:
What do forklift drivers, camper van owners, ice resurfacing machine drivers, and American homeowners all have in common?
Every single one of them, and many other different types of people across the country, need propane tanks!
But when you need a propane tank, for whatever purpose, you can’t simply dial the propane tank hotline to figure out which of the many propane tank variants you need.
There are several types of propane tanks on the market, each with different strengths for different users.
At Kauffman Gas, we’ve regularly heard from individuals and businesses who know they need a propane tank but aren’t sure which type is right for their needs.
That’s why we’ve written this blog to let you know exactly which tank is which, as well as what they are usually used for.
Types Of Propane Tanks: Based On Usage
In general, there are two main types of propane tank customers: those who need a propane tank for a single use and those who need to be able to use their tank multiple times.
For people who only need to use a propane tank on a one-off occasion, a single-use propane tank may be better for your purposes.
As is self-explanatory, you mustn’t ever refill a single-use propane tank.
You should also take great care to dispose of your single-use propane tank safely after use.
If you’re concerned about what propane emissions do for the environment when making your decision, note that propane is, in fact, an approved clean energy source.
The vast majority of people will need a refillable propane tank, rather than a single-use one, purely because of its capacity to be reused.
Reusable tanks are more likely to be used in home heating systems and are designed to withstand far greater punishment.
It’s All In The Size (And The Valve)
Once you’ve decided on whether you need a single-use or refillable tank, you need to know what size and what valve your tank needs.
There are 4 common sizes for propane tanks on the market today. We outlined all of them, along with which is best for you, in our previous blog post.
As a general rule, the more energy you need to get from your propane tank, the bigger it needs to be.
In addition to the varying sizes of propane tanks on the market, there are different valve types. The valve is the connecting point between the tank and the fuel source used to refill it.
Propane tanks are produced with three main valve types:
- POL Valve
- ACME Valve
- OPD Valve
Today, you will be unlikely to see tanks with a POL valve, as they are the oldest design and therefore the least safe of the three valve options.
ACME valves use external threads, which is where they differ from the older POL valve. They can be tightened by hand, making them a more practical option than the POL valve.
Most importantly, the ACME valve has improved safety protocols to ensure that no gas leaks from your tank.
It’s most likely, if you’re buying a new tank today, that you’ll find a tank with an OPD valve, which stands for Overfill Prevention Device.
These are the safest valves on the market, and many older tanks can, in fact, be retrofitted with an OPD valve—though this may not be cost-effective for many tank owners.
OPD valves have a safety protocol similar to ACME but one that’s more secure, as they use an internal float system.
If you have a tank with a POL valve, you should consider replacing it with one of the newer, safer valve models.
If you’re buying a new tank today, it’s likely worth seeking out an OPD valve tank for the most up-to-date design in your tank valve.
Whatever valve your propane tank uses, it’s vital that you ensure it is stored safely.
The Location/Installation Of Your Propane Tank
In addition to the size, reusability, and valve type, propane tanks on the market today differ depending on where they are placed.
In terms of their installation, there are three further types of propane tanks currently on the market:
- Above-Ground Tanks
- Buried Propane Tanks (Underground Tanks)
- Vertical Tanks (Cylinders)
The tank you need for your home will depend on your size and usage requirements.
Some may fear that installing a buried propane tank would be a significantly more complicated process than an above-ground one. In reality, the process isn’t as time-consuming as it sounds.
You’d also assume that a buried propane tank would be safer than one installed above ground, as above-ground propane tanks are subject to changes in the weather.
However, you need to bear in mind where an underground tank is installed; if it’s in an area prone to flooding, then it may, in fact, be a better option to purchase an above-ground tank.
There are entirely different protective measures for each tank type to protect it from the elements, either above ground or below.
Either way, a buried propane tank is likely to result in a more expensive purchase, given that you need to buy the tank itself as well as the means of excavating land to install it.
Vertical propane tanks are what’s known as cylinders and are usually smaller in size than horizontal tanks.
As such, they are better suited for small uses like a barbecue, rather than as a means to heat an entire home.
Because of this, they are far easier to transport than their counterparts.
Decisions, Decisions: Contact Us
With all the different types of propane tanks, you need to determine the purpose of your tank first and foremost.
Then, you need to determine where it is placed and, if possible, ensure that it has the newly designed OPD valve compared with the older alternatives.
If you’re unsure which propane tank type is best suited for you, the best thing to do is talk to an expert.
Contact us today with all your propane needs.
FAQs
How do I know if I need a single-use or refillable propane tank?
It depends on how often you plan to use propane. Single-use tanks are fine for one-off applications like camping or grilling, but most homeowners and businesses will benefit from refillable tanks due to their larger capacity and long-term cost savings.
What’s the safest type of propane tank valve?
OPD (Overfill Prevention Device) valves are considered the safest and most modern option. They prevent overfilling and include an internal float system for added protection. Most new tanks come equipped with OPD valves by default.
Can I upgrade an older propane tank with a new valve?
In some cases, yes. Older tanks with POL or ACME valves can be retrofitted with OPD valves, but it may not always be cost-effective. If your tank is aging or out of compliance, replacing it entirely may be the better option.
What’s the difference between above-ground, underground, and vertical propane tanks?
Above-ground tanks are easier to install and maintain, but more visible. Underground tanks are hidden and often preferred for aesthetics, though installation is more involved. Vertical tanks (also called cylinders) are smaller, portable, and best for limited use like grilling or powering small appliances.