Grillman Propane, an Easton, MA based provider of propane gas, has developed a "Propane Tank Trade-In" program to help consumers comply with the new federal regulations for propane tanks that become effective April 1, 2002 on a nationwide basis.

CONSUMER ALERT -- AS OF APRIL 1, 2002 PROPANE TANKS MUST INCLUDE SAFETY FEATURES OR CAN NOT BE REFILLED Local Company Announces "Propane Tank Trade-In" Program

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CONSUMER ALERT -- AS OF APRIL 1, 2002
PROPANE TANKS MUST INCLUDE SAFETY FEATURES
OR CAN NOT BE REFILLED
Local Company Announces "Propane Tank Trade-In" Program

DATELINE: EASTON, MA, FEBRUARY 26, 2002... Grillman Propane, an Easton, MA based provider of propane gas, high-end gas grills, grill accessories, hearth and patio items, has developed a "Propane Tank Trade-In" program to help consumers comply with the new federal regulations for propane tanks that become effective April 1, 2002 on a nationwide basis.

According to the new national propane tank regulations (as defined by the National Fire Protection Associations Pamphlet 58 -- LP-Gas Code, 1998 Edition-Code), propane tanks in the 4 lb. to 40 lbs. capacity range must have the new safety feature of an Overfilling Prevention Device (OPD). To most consumers this affects their 20lb gas grill tank. The new safety device is designed to markedly increase the safe use of small propane cylinders.

All grills manufactured and sold after October of 1998 most likely came with the new the OPD tanks. OPD tanks are identified by a triangle shaped handle on top. Some consumers have been confused because of the new connections mandated in 1994 forcing them to change tanks at that time. Now four years later the new OPD standard was imposed forcing consumers to switch tanks again by April 1st.

Propane dealers will not be allowed to refill propane tanks that lack the OPD safety device. All propane tanks that do not meet the new Code standard must be requalified and fitted with an OPD or discarded and replaced.

Grillman Propane customers may requalify their old tank and have an OPD device installed or they may participate in the "Propane Tank Trade-In" program. The cost to requalify an old tank is $19, while the cost to trade in an old tank for disposal and replace it with a brand new one is $32. Propane tanks must be drained and disassembled by a propane dealer (according to code) for proper disposal.

Another option would involve connecting the grill to existing gas service at the consumers home. This is not always possible, but it is an option if a gas line runs nearby and the grill is setup for conversion. Each home is different and its not always cost efficient, so a cost estimate would need to be done.

"To ensure safety, its best to have a propane dealer check your tank annually before refilling it. Tanks with dents, damage, rust or leaks must be replaced," noted Jeff Tufts, also known as "The Grillman" of Grillman is based in Easton, Mass. and provides propane, high-end gas grills, grill accessories, hearth and patio items to commercial and residential customers throughout southeastern Massachusetts.

Tufts continued, "The new national regulations prohibit us from refilling tanks without the OPD device. Our new propane tank trade-in program is an easy way for consumers to get into 'grilling compliance."

Barbecuing continues to be a favorite outdoor activity among consumers. The Barbecue Industry Association estimates that at least three billion barbecue events take place each year among the estimated 75 million households that own grills, based on its 1999 industry survey. Of those households, 60 percent own propane gas grills.

Grillman: Propane- hearth --home- patio
Founded in 1985, Grillman has been providing propane, high-end gas grills, grill accessories, hearth and patio items to commercial and residential customers throughout southeastern Massachusetts. Grillman supplies propane gas for home heating, space heating, water heating, cooking, dryers, gas logs, forklifts, motor fuel, restaurants, pool and spa heaters, caterers, generators and construction. They also provide sales and service on natural gas appliances.

Gas grill tank refills with convenient delivery service is available to homes and businesses within the area. Headquartered in Easton, MA, Grillman has recently unveiled their new line of gas and electric built-in or insert fireplaces that can be installed in almost any room of the home. For more information or to schedule propane gas grill tank refill, contact (508) 238-3139 or visit the website at www.Grillman.com.