Is this a new tank, you can't exchange a 5 pound tank, no one carries those? So, one good for the full 12 years would be nice.

All our tanks are pre vacuum purged, empty and ready to be filled. Tank should be recertified between 10 - 12 years from the date of manufacture. The tank's manufacture date will be stamped on either the collar or the foot of the tank as the month, a big letter A and then the year. Something like this: 05 A 23. DOT changes rule sometimes which is why we give that 10 -12 year range so be sure to check their site closer to the time.