How it Works

How it works

Choose RapidXchange for the quickest, safest and most convenient tank exchanges around! Learn more about how our exchange program works below.

How do I exchange a tank?

It’s easy:
1. Find a RapidXchange center using our zip code search.
2. Leave your old cylinder at the outdoor RapidXchange display.
3. Tell the clerk you want to exchange your propane cylinder.
4. Your clerk will give you a safe, high-quality RapidXchange cylinder.

When I use RapidXchange, do I own my propane tank?

Yes! You own it and can refill it at any time.

Will you accept a competitor’s propane tank?

Yes! You can exchange any cylinder, including ones from competitors or older RapidXchange tanks.

Are your tanks new or refurbished?

All our tanks are refurbished using our proprietary 12-step process to ensure you always have a safe, high-quality cylinder. Here’s how it works:

  1. All empty incoming cylinders are checked for damage and wear; unacceptable tanks are rejected. Inspectors check OPD (Overfill Prevention Device) valves, handles and threads to make sure they’re free of corrosion and defects.
  2. A second inspection determines if a tank needs washing or surface blasting, which strips away debris, minor corrosion, worn paint and food residue.
  3. If needed, tanks undergo blasting. Tanks with excessive rust, corrosion or damaged parts are rejected. Inspectors send tanks to be washed and repainted.
  4. Tanks are washed to remove grease, food and blasting residue, then dried and prepared for painting.
  5. Tanks are painted to restore the tank to near-new condition and to prevent future rust and corrosion.
  6. Painted tanks are dried then inspected for imperfections before being filled.
  7. Newly painted tanks are inspected and approved before filling.
  8. Technicians use a precision mechanism to fill tanks with the right amount of propane.
  9. Tanks are weighed then reweighed to confirm that they contain the proper amount of propane.
  10. Every RapidXchange tank is infrared-tested for leaks. Tanks with repairable leaks are fixed; tanks with irreparable leaks are rejected.
  11. Each tank receives a RapidXChange sleeve, signifying that it has passed our quality and safety inspection.
  12. Each tank is fitted with a tamper-proof value seal to ensure your tank is safe for transport.

What if I need a spare tank?

Just buy a full tank and don’t exchange it–just make sure you store it safely!

The valve on my tank is old and doesn’t fit my new grill. What should I do?

Just exchange your old tank for one of our cylinders: every RapidXchange cylinder comes fitted with the safety or OPD valve required by the state where you exchange your tank.

Why should I choose RapidXchange?

With RapidXchange, you’ll get the quickest, safest and most convenient propane tank exchanges around! With every RapidXchange, you’ll get:

  • Quality – Get a like-new cylinder at every exchange. No more greasy, rusty cylinders to carry!
  • Safety – Thanks to our 12-step refurbishing progress, you’ll always have a safe, high-quality cylinder. We guarantee it!
  • Convenience – Our tanks are available at convenience, hardware and grocery stores – many of which are open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.
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