[5String43]

Right, here in California we've had to replace tanks a couple of times in the last decade. As I recall, this was because of new rules regarding the valves. So, OK, fine. If they're "safer," I guess that's a net gain.

We've got two tanks, both used for our grill. I make sure one of them always is full and ready to go. As for refills, we have a commercial propane joint just a couple of miles from our home. (This is immediately adjacent to a set of railroad tracks, a fact that greatly worries the local authorities, but that's another topic.) When a tank goes empty, I just haul it down to this place and have it filled. The cost is between $9 and $11, depending on the price of propane at the moment. The replacement stations around here want $20 to $25. I like refill deal better, tightwad that I am.