Newb needs Argon gas for TIG around Akron Ohio

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Hey guys. First time posting on this forum but I have always appreciated the great information here. I am new TIG welder looking for best bang for the buck argon gasI called Praxair and they charge $.47 per day for tank and $47 for exchange. I call Airgas and they want $60 for exchange of personal tank. I can get filled tank from Craigslist for $150. I am not going with Praxair obviously... but is the Airgas a good deal if I buy that tank? Does anyone live around the Akron Ohio area that knows of a better deal? Cleveland area is too far. Thanks for any info!
Reply:Buy the biggest cylinder they will sell you in one of the stores. You will pay a little more for the cylinder but they will get to know you a bit and will be more likely to help you out.Airco Ac/Dc 300 HeliwelderMillerMatic 200 (stolen)Miller Maxstar 150STLMiller AEAD200LE (welding and generating power) Hobart MIG
Reply:Take the cost of purchasing a bottle and divide it by the daily rent.  That tells you the time when you break even by purchasing.  It is often a year to 18 months.  This becomes a much larger factor of the overall costs for hobby welders, as we burn gas slowly.  It usually makes sense to buy the tank.  The fill cost is a large part labor.  So if you get the largest cylinder you can safely handle, you will save money in the long run.  I think I paid $225 for a 150 cf tank.  The 82cf tank was maybe $150.  So $75 difference.  But filling was only 25% more for nearly double the gas.  This pays for the difference really quick.  There was even more savings for the next level up at 336cf.  But I don't really have a safe way to handle a 180lb cylinder solo.If you buy used, make for certain that they will take it in exchange.  Also, it is good to learn how to read hydro markings to see if the tank would need to be tested before filled again (which could eliminate some of the the savings you made on buying used.)  Many companies will not exchange cylinders unless they have their own collar or you have a bill of sale from the company that has the collar.Last edited by sacherjj; 01-15-2015 at 11:13 AM.AHP AlphaTIG 200DX (2nd Gen)Lincoln WeldPak 3200HD Bird Poop GeneratorLotos LTP5000D Plasma Cutter
Reply:No idea on what side of Akron you are on.  These guys may be cheaper in Massillon, which I think is 20-25 miles.http://www.mathesongas.com/contactus.aspxAHP AlphaTIG 200DX (2nd Gen)Lincoln WeldPak 3200HD Bird Poop GeneratorLotos LTP5000D Plasma Cutter
Reply:It would help if you mention tank size. As for craigs list tank, check with suppliers to see if they will fill it. Some can be a real witch about it.
Reply:Oh yeah tank on craigslist is 125CF. Thanks for all replies. Still doing some digging
Reply:Went to the Matheson gas place which ended up being only about 15-20 minute drive from the house. Bought (2) 125CF bottles $177 each with first fill free. Refills $40. It seemed like a good deal and the guys gave me some good advice too while I was there. Cant wait to weld something this weekend! Thanks guys
Reply:Originally Posted by ericfoxWent to the Matheson gas place which ended up being only about 15-20 minute drive from the house. Bought (2) 125CF bottles $177 each with first fill free. Refills $40. It seemed like a good deal and the guys gave me some good advice too while I was there. Cant wait to weld something this weekend! Thanks guys
Reply:Matheson on portage is the best. I buy all of my toys there.
Reply:First day TIG welding...  had good time messing around with a little 1/8" plate found in the garage. Felt a little dumb after struggling to make a good puddle for about 30 minutes - realized wasn't pushing the foot pedal all the way down... doh. Do you guys turn your gas off at the cylinder every time when done welding? I did bubble test everything after putting it together. Guessing its still probably smart to turn it off thereThanks again