03/22/2016
Thinking of bringing in a propane tank for a refill? Here's some info and an image to help you determine whether or not your tank and valve are up to spec. Any consumer tank below 40lbs fill weight, with the exception of skid tanks for Forklift Trucks and others, are required to have an OPD valve, which is a device that prevents overfill and makes the tanks safer for stowage, use, and refilling. Below is a simple illustration to provide you with the information regarding what the handle on you tank signifies. The 'Bubble' handle is non-OPD equipped, the 'Star' handle is non-OPD equipped, there are some other handle styles out there as well, non-OPD equipped. If the handle is shaped like the bottom one, three spokes, then it is OPD equipped and is OK to be refilled!
http://www.propane101.com/opdcylindervalves.htm
Learn about overfill prevention device equipped valves for propane bottles, OPD valve requirements and operation.