Propane OPD

[Tony Wilcox]

Am about to sail into U.S. waters for a short period (Lake Ontario) Have seen posts as to having to install these new valves before the cylinders can be refilled. Does anyone know if all tanks have to have these valves, or is it ok to run the tanks out.It is not mandatory here in Canada yet but they are available. I have one tank on my boat that is equipped but the original tank does not.Tony

 

[Dan McGuire]

Run the Tank Out

OPDs are required on propane tanks on RVs also. All I have heard so far is that you can run the tank out.

 

[Dave J]

Looks required

My local propane dealer tells me that the fine if he gets caught refilling a non-OPD equipped tank (other than forklift tanks that lay down) would be enough to put him out of business.I think it would be a good idea to get your tanks changed over.What's the word on Porta-potties on smaller boats (withour room for fixed mounted equipment) in Ontarian Waters? Would they rather have us use porta-potties or just go over the side ? (Stupid question, I know, but you know politicians).

 

[Dan McGuire]

Run the Tank Out (2)

I will say it again. Run the tank out. You cannot get the tank refilled legally. The purpose of the OPD is to keep the tank from being overfilled during the filling process. Logic says that there is no point in disposing of the fuel once it is already filled. Of course where the government is concerned, logic has nothing to do with it. On my RV I can run a 30# tank for four months, so I do not plan on getting a new tank for several years.

 

[Pete]

OPD REQUIREMENTS

The opd (overfill protection device)required on propane tanks is basicly a law for the propane retailers. It is against the law to REFILL a tank that is not equiped with a opd valve.Unless you have the alunimum tanks it is most likely not cost effective to retro fit a tank (steel),remember there is also a date on the tanks that will expire there life with out being recertified,so you might just a well buy a new one.As far as using a tank with out a opd device you are legal to "run it out" and dispose of tank correctly or retro fit if you like.

 

[Steve]

Not Required below 4 lbs...

The requirement for OPD is for 4-40 lb tanks. Our little tanks are below the requirement, but if you come across unknowledgeable teenage clerks refilling tanks, you might have a problem convincing them.The link below provides info from one state, but it is a federal req.

 

[Dave]

Pretty cheap to retrofit

I had a 10# tank retrofitted with an OPD valve. The valve, propane refill, and labor to do it cost $20. I haven't been able to find a new tank near that price. So my advice would be to check out the retrofit price before just chucking the tank and buying new.Of course, as others have said, run your current tank dry before doing anything about it.