Back to the cost of propane.

[fatlazyless]

A 100-gal tank, known as a Q tank, is a very common tank and it typically does not get buried underground, and always seems to not be owned by the homeowner, and is owned by the propane company.

So, if one can purchase a 320-gal or 500-gal or larger tank then why is it almost impossible to purchase a 100-gal Q tank? Yes, it needs to be pressure tested every ten years, but still, how come you cannot find someone to sell you a Q tank?

And, the reason is pretty simple.......the propane companies do not want to sell Q tanks because it puts an effective stop to propane price competition between companies since by renting a Q tank, the homeowner cannot price shop propane and easily switch suppliers to a lower price.

It is similar to having ,for example, Irving Oil own the gasoline tank in your car and requiring that you only purchase Irving and then explain that the tank needs to be tested and certified every ten years, and for that reason, you cannot own the gas tank in your car.