Propane Tank Safety: Serial Number Matching For Campers

Propane tanks have a variety of markings, including the requalification date, the manufacturer's data, and the manufacturer's name, symbol, or serial number. The manufacturer's nameplate is essential for identifying a propane tank as unique and providing pertinent information about it. It is typically made of stainless steel and includes information such as the tank's water capacity, design pressure, and serial number. When buying a used propane tank, it is important to ensure that the nameplate is legible and has not been removed, as a propane tank without a legible nameplate is considered condemned and cannot be used further in propane service.

Legibility and permanence of the serial number are crucial for propane tank usage

A propane tank without a legible nameplate is considered condemned and cannot be used for propane service. Therefore, it is essential to keep the nameplate clean, dry, and free of rust to ensure the tank's longevity and usability. Rusted and unreadable nameplates can render a propane tank useless, as the information it carries is vital for safe and proper usage.

The nameplate also serves as proof of ownership, and a legible serial number can help establish whether a tank has been abandoned or stolen. It is also essential for requalification purposes, as the serial number is often linked to the tank's original qualification date and subsequent requalification dates. This information is crucial for ensuring the tank is safe for continued use.

Additionally, the serial number aids in identifying the correct distributor for replacement or repair purposes. It can also help users access important information about the tank's specifications, such as its capacity and design, which is vital for proper usage and maintenance. Therefore, a clear and permanent serial number is vital for the safe and effective use of propane tanks.

The serial number identifies the propane tank's manufacturer

Propane tanks are designed to be durable and safe, withstanding years of use in varying weather conditions. However, they do have a shelf life and need to be periodically recertified to ensure they meet safety requirements. The serial number on a propane tank is a critical identifier.

The serial number is typically located on the head of the tank and serves as a unique identifier, much like a vehicle's VIN. This number allows the tank's manufacturer, distributor, and date of manufacture to be identified. It also helps the propane company and the U.S. Department of Transportation to track the tank and maintain safety records.

The serial number is part of the manufacturer's nameplate, which is typically made of stainless steel and permanently attached to the tank. The nameplate provides essential information about the tank, including its capacity, design pressure, and intended service type. It also includes the manufacturer's name and address, outside surface area, tank shell and head thickness, and overall dimensions.

To ensure the longevity of a propane tank, it is crucial to protect the nameplate. Consumers should keep it clean, dry, and free of rust. A rusted or unreadable nameplate renders a propane tank unusable in propane service. Therefore, proper care of the nameplate is essential for the continued serviceability of the tank.

The propane tank's distributor can be identified through the serial number

The propane tanks distributor can be identified through the serial number. Propane tanks have a manufacturers' nameplate that provides all the pertinent information about the tank. This includes the tank manufacturer's name and address, the water capacity, the design pressure, the outside surface area, and the tank shell and head thickness, among other details. The serial number is also included on the nameplate, and this can be used to identify the distributor that sold the tank.

The serial number is usually located on the head of the tank. By entering the serial number into a search window, you can quickly identify the model, distributor, and date of manufacture of the tank. This is particularly useful when you need to order a replacement tank, as you can then contact the original distributor directly.

It is important to note that the nameplate must be legible and permanently attached to the tank for it to be serviceable in the United States. Without a legible nameplate, a propane tank cannot be used in propane service. Therefore, it is essential to keep the nameplate clean, dry, and free of rust to ensure the continued serviceability of the tank.

In addition to the nameplate, propane cylinders also have identifying marks on the cylinder collar. One important marking for consumers is the "restest" or "requalification" date, which indicates when the cylinder needs to be requalified or replaced. This date is stamped on the cylinder collar and must be presented in a specific manner, as outlined by Transport Canada.

The serial number is essential for proving ownership of a propane tank

The serial number is an essential piece of information for proving ownership of a propane tank. When buying a house with a propane tank, it is important to establish ownership of the tank to avoid any issues with the propane company. In some cases, the propane tank may be leased from the propane supplier, and the company will not fill/service tanks owned by another provider.

To prove ownership, one can look for the manufacturer's nameplate on the tank, which should include the tank's serial number. This nameplate is typically made of stainless steel and is either continuously welded to the container or raised. Keeping the nameplate clean, dry, and free of rust is crucial for the tank's longevity and usability. Without a legible nameplate, a propane tank cannot be used for propane service.

If there is no nameplate or serial number on the tank, one can refer to the property disclosure page of the contract or the real estate agent's property details. Additionally, one can contact the previous owner or the realtor to obtain information about the tank's ownership. It is also worth noting that some propane companies may require documentation or proof of ownership before providing a refill.

In summary, the serial number plays a vital role in establishing ownership of a propane tank. By checking the manufacturer's nameplate, reviewing relevant documentation, and contacting the necessary parties, one can prove ownership and avoid any potential issues with the propane company.

The serial number is usually located on the head of the propane tank

The serial number is important for identifying a propane tank uniquely and providing all pertinent information about that particular tank. The manufacturers' nameplate, usually made of stainless steel, is the primary means of identifying a propane tank. This nameplate must be legible and permanently attached to the tank, with specific information displayed on it for the propane tank to be serviceable in the United States. This includes the tank manufacturer's name and address, the tank water capacity, the design pressure, and the tank serial number, among other details.

The nameplate must be protected to ensure the longevity and usability of the propane tank. Consumers can play a role in nameplate protection by keeping it clean, dry, and free of rust. Rusted and unreadable nameplates render a propane tank useless.

In addition to the nameplate, propane tanks have other markings, such as a series of letters and numbers stamped into the collar or handle, which indicate important information about the tank, including its manufacturing date, capacity rating, and unique identification number.

Frequently asked questions