Home / Blue Rhino vs AmeriGas
Last verified April 2026
Blue Rhino vs AmeriGas Tank Exchange: 2026 Price Comparison
Both are more expensive than refill stations. If you own a tank, use a refill station instead.
Exchange at $22-25 for 15lb = $1.47/lb. Refill at $17 for 20lb = $0.85/lb. You pay 73% more per pound at exchange and get 25% less propane.
Blue Rhino vs AmeriGas: Side-by-Side
| Metric | Blue Rhino | AmeriGas |
|---|---|---|
| Exchange price | $22-25 | $22-25 |
| Propane delivered | 15lb (3.53 gal) | 15lb (3.53 gal) |
| Effective $/gal | ~$6.23-$7.08 | ~$6.23-$7.08 |
| Location count | 60,000+ retail partners | Major grocery/hardware |
| Parent company | SHC Franchising | UGI Corporation |
| Exchange tank ownership | You keep the exchanged tank | You keep the exchanged tank |
When Exchange Makes Sense (and When It Doesn't)
Use exchange when...
- You don't own a propane tank
- Your tank is expired (over 12 years)
- Urgent need - late night, no refill station nearby
- You're already at a store with an exchange cage
Skip exchange when...
- You own a valid propane tank
- A refill station is reasonably nearby
- You refill regularly (cost adds up fast)
- You have a 30lb+ tank (not available in exchange)
Pro tip: After your first exchange, switch to refill. You now own the tank you got from the exchange - take it to U-Haul, Tractor Supply, or Costco and save $5-10 on every future fill.
FAQ
Is Blue Rhino or AmeriGas cheaper?⌄
They're functionally identical - both charge $22-25 for a 15lb exchange in 2026. Choose based on which cage is at your nearest convenient location.
How much propane do you get with Blue Rhino or AmeriGas exchange?⌄
15lb, not the full 20lb. At 4.24 lb/gallon, that's 3.53 gallons. Refill stations fill to 80% capacity (3.76 gallons). Exchange is 6.5% less propane AND costs $5-8 more. Effective exchange rate: $5.66-$7.08/gallon vs $3-4.50 at refill stations.