Exchange means you swap your empty cylinder for a full one from the supplier’s pool. Refill means they fill your specific cylinder (sometimes while-you-wait, sometimes drop-off). Exchange is usually easier to find and faster.

Sometimes. Some places only exchange their cylinders. Others will refill customer-owned, but only if the tank is in-date, in good condition, and a valve they support. Always ask before you drive over.

Most standard CO2 cylinders use CGA-320. Paintball bottles and some specialty setups can differ. If you’re unsure, tell the supplier what you have (size + valve) and ask what they support.

If CO2 touches something you’ll drink (homebrew, soda), many people prefer beverage-grade. The simplest move: ask what grade they provide and decide based on your comfort level and use-case.

Quick rule: 20 lb is the common “value” pick if you have space. 10 lb if space is tight. 5 lb to start small. 50 lb for heavy use / shop vibes.

Because words are messy and phone conversations are worse. Some places don’t refill customer-owned tanks, but they do exchange. Ask: “Do you do exchange, refill, or both? And do you accept customer-owned cylinders?”

It varies a lot by location, supplier type, and whether you’re doing exchange vs refill. The best way to avoid guesswork is to call 2–3 suppliers and ask for: exchange price, refill price (if offered), and any deposits/fees.

Yep. Common reasons: out-of-date hydro test, damaged valve, obvious corrosion, wrong valve type, or “we don’t service customer-owned.” It’s not personal, it’s liability and policy. If you’re using exchange, this becomes much less of a problem because you’re swapping into their pool.

That’s exchange. You usually don’t get your exact cylinder back. You get a filled cylinder of the same size class from the supplier’s pool. If you need your specific tank back, you’re looking for a true refill (and you should ask about wait vs drop-off).

Yes when handled properly: keep it upright and secured, avoid heat, and don’t DIY valve repairs.