Does Home Depot Fill CO2 Tanks in 2024? Here Are Better Options
As the largest home improvement retailer in the US, Home Depot prides itself on offering hassle-free services for DIYers and pros alike. But can you get your CO2 tank refilled there too? Unfortunately no – Home Depot does not offer CO2 tank refilling at any of its over 2,000 stores as of 2023.
However, it‘s still possible to exchange empty tanks or buy CO2 products at Home Depot. And many other retailers provide tank refilling at affordable rates. This guide will compare your options.
What CO2 Products Are Available at Home Depot?
While limited, Home Depot does sell some CO2-related supplies:
- SodaStream CO2 refills: Convenient for soda makers, 60L cylinder exchanges start at $14.99.
- Empty CO2 tanks: Various sizes available for purchase starting at $50.
- CO2 detectors: Monitor CO2 levels with alarms from $89.
So Home Depot has supplies related to CO2 systems. But for refilling existing tanks, other retailers are better equipped.
Hardware Stores With CO2 Refilling
Home improvement stores like Ace Hardware and True Value offer more robust CO2 services:
| Store | CO2 Refilling? | Average Refill Cost | Other Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Depot | ❌ No | N/A | SodaStream exchanges, tank sales |
| Lowe‘s | ❌ No | N/A | Tank sales only |
| Ace Hardware | ✅ Yes | $14.99 | Tank exchanges, leak testing |
| True Value | ✅ Yes | $16.49 | Tank refills, tank sales |
Chains like Ace Hardware and True Value let you refill tanks of various sizes on-site. Average cost is $15-17 per 5 lb. tank – very reasonable.
So for hardware CO2 refilling, check Ace Hardware or True Value first. Avoid Lowe‘s too since they just sell tanks.
Specialty CO2 Gas Suppliers
If you need large volumes of CO2, specialty gas companies like:
- Airgas
- Rapid Welding Supply
- Gas and Supply
Offer more heavy duty refill capabilities, including:
- Bulk gas deliveries
- Industrial generators
- Custom filling by weight
Pricing scales based on tank size and fill amount, ranging $100-$500+ for prosumer/commercial setups.
These industrial CO2 pros are the supply source for most retailers too. But average consumers will likely prefer local hardware store refills.
Filling Your Own CO2 Cylinders
Technically you can DIY refill CO2 tanks at home with proper valves, hoses, and safety gear. However this is only recommended for experienced users given the pressure hazard concerns.
For casual users, exchanging empty tanks for full ones at retail stores is the simplest and safest option.
Conclusion: Where to Fill CO2 Tanks
To recap the key options covered:
- Home improvement: Visit Ace Hardware or True Value for $15 CO2 refills. Reliable and affordable.
- Specialty gas: Airgas, Rapid Welding, etc offer heavy duty CO2 but at a higher cost.
- DIY refilling: Possible but not ideal for average consumers. Use retail exchanges instead.
So while Home Depot is the leading home retailer, they simply don‘t offer this service. For CO2 tank filling needs, check your trusted local hardware store first. Convenient tank exchanges start around just $15 – saving you time and money.
