Choosing the right size propane tank for your property is crucial, whether you’re fueling a backyard BBQ or powering your entire home. However, with dimensions and weight measurements, understanding the right propane tank size for your needs can be a little confusing. Below, the experts at GasTecwill help you navigate common propane tank sizes, ensuring you get the best fit for your needs.
Demystifying Propane Tank Capacity
One of the biggest hurdles in understanding propane tank dimensions is deciphering the actual amount of propane you’re getting. Propane tanks are traditionally sized by weight, indicating their weight when full in pounds. However, this doesn’t always translate easily into usable propane, especially considering the tank’s weight itself.
Propane Weight Per Gallon
To better understand how much propane you have, it’s often more helpful to consider the tank’s capacity in gallons. Below, we’ll list typical propane tank sizes by weight but also include their corresponding gallon capacities. Propane weight per gallon is a fixed value, so you can easily calculate the propane weight in a full tank by multiplying the number of gallons by 4.2 (the weight of a gallon of propane). However, it’s important to note that the two largest tank sizes (500 and 1,000 gallons) are typically listed by their gallon capacity only.
While some propane tanks, particularly larger ones, have gauges that display fill level, smaller tanks often lack this feature. In such cases, keep a spare tank on hand. This allows you to switch to a full tank when the first one runs out, maximizing uptime and minimizing inconvenience.
Common Propane Tank Sizes: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Now that we’ve addressed weight vs. gallons, let’s explore the most common propane tank sizes:
- 20 lb tank: This compact and portable tank, measuring 18 inches tall and 12 inches in diameter, holds approximately 5 gallons of propane. It’s ideal for grills and other small propane appliances and is typically exchanged for a pre-filled tank at refill stations.
- 33 lb tank: Slightly larger than the 20 lb tank, this option stands 2 feet tall and 1 foot in diameter. With a capacity of 8 gallons, it’s still portable and easy for one person to handle. Similar to the 20 lb tank, it’s typically refilled through exchange programs.
- 100 lb tank: Offering a significant increase in capacity, the 100 lb tank holds nearly 25 gallons of propane and measures 4 feet tall by 18 inches in diameter. While still portable, it’s recommended to have a helper when moving it. Many propane suppliers offer at-home exchange services for these tanks.
- Dual 100 lb tank setup: This setup consists of two 100 lb tanks connected by a switchover valve. When one tank depletes, the valve automatically switches to the full tank, ensuring uninterrupted use. A red/green indicator conveniently shows when to refill the empty tank.
- 420 lb tank: Designed for stationary use, this tank holds a substantial 100 gallons of propane and measures 4 feet tall by 3 feet in diameter. Refilling this tank requires on-site service from a propane supplier.
- 500-gallon tank: This large above-ground or underground tank holds approximately 400 gallons of propane at its standard 80% fill capacity. It measures 5 feet tall and 10 feet long and requires on-site refilling.
- 1,000-gallon tank: The largest commonly used propane tank, this option holds 800 gallons of propane at 80% capacity and measures 5 feet tall by 16 feet long. Similar to the 500-gallon tank, it’s installed above ground or underground and refilled on-site.
Why Partner With GasTec for Your Propane Needs?
Still unsure about the ideal propane tank size for your needs? Don’t hesitate to contact our propane experts today at 1-888-449-3585. We’re happy to guide you through the selection process and ensure you choose the perfect tank for your application.