Prospecting Propane Tank Sizes and Their Applications

Propane is a versatile fuel used to heat homes, cook stoves, and outdoor grills. An appropriate, right-sized propane tank is important for effective energy use and convenience. This article explains the different propane tank sizes, uses, and what to look out for while choosing a tank suitable for your needs. LP Propane is committed to giving you the right solution to meet your propane usage needs.

What are Propane Tanks?

Propane tanks, also known as LPG storage containers, are containers used to store liquid propane gas under pressure. The desired size of these tanks is proportional to their intended use. They come in various sizes and shapes, depending on whether they are used in residential, commercial, or industrial applications. It is important to understand the measurements and capacities of propane tanks to make sure you have enough fuel for your purposes and avoid overpaying, or wasting space.

Common Propane Tank Sizes and Dimensions

  1. 20 lb Propane Tank
  2. 120 Gallon Propane Tank
  3. 250-Gallon Propane Tank
  4. 500-Gallon Propane Tank
  5. 1000 Gallon Propane Tank
  6. Big Tanks (1000 Gallons and above)

20 lb Propane Tank

  • Dimensions: Approximately 1′ 6″ tall and 1′ in diameter
  • Capacity: Will hold approximately 4.6 gallons of propane
  • Uses: Ideal for outdoor grills, patio heaters, and small appliances. This size is also called a grill cylinder and will fit perfectly when organizing a casual backyard barbecue or camping out.

120 Gallon Propane Tank

  • Dimensions: Approximately 4′ 6″ tall and 30″ in diameter
  • Capacity: Full capacity of 96 gallons of propane
  • Uses: Ideal for residences with 1-2 propane appliances, including hot water heaters and space heaters. This tank size is most universally utilized in smaller homes or for those whose propane demand is small.

250-Gallon Propane Tank

  • Size: Approximately 7′ 10″ long and 30″ in diameter
  • Capacity: Holds 200 gallons of propane when full
  • Uses: Suitable for auxiliary heating or small homes, dwelling with 2-3 appliances such as water heaters and generators. This size is ideal for a mid-sized house.

500-Gallon Propane Tank

  • Size: Approximately 9′ 11″ long and 37.5″ in diameter
  • Capacity: Approx. 400 gallons of propane when full
  • Applications: This tank size is applied more often to larger homes or those having many propane appliances like central heating systems, stoves, and dryers. It is very commonly the default application in most households.

1000 Gallon Propane Tank

  • Size: About 16′ 2″ long and 41″ in diameter
  • Capacity: Fills 800 gallons of propane
  • Uses: Primarily for much larger homes or commercial applications. This tank would be most suitable in a home that only uses propane for all heat and to run most appliances.

Big Tanks (1000 Gallons and above)

  • 30,000 Gallon Tank: Used for large commercial buildings or industrial uses as it can hold up to 24,000 gallons of propane
  • 1,990 Gallon Tank: Commonly used in commercial heating applications, the tank holds 1,592 gallons of propane

Whether small or large, find your perfect fit!
For safe and efficient use, don’t ever quit!

Above Ground vs. Underground Propane Tanks

Above Ground Tanks

Above-ground propane tanks are available from 100 to 1,500 gallons in size. They tend to be less expensive and easier to install than underground tanks. A second important advantage of above-ground tanks is access; they are easier to service and refill more readily. While some may like the looks of an underground tank, the aboveground can be disguised by landscaping or fencing and is a favorite to homeowners. 

Underground Tank

An underground propane tank is typically in the range of 250 to 1,500 gallons and is preferred if hard weather conditions need to be endured. Underground tanks can save space since they will not occupy valuable yard space and help keep your house beautiful. Underground tanks lose less propane due to the effects of temperature. Houses with underground tanks also tend to be perceived as more valuable since only the dome is outwardly visible and tends to give a clean appearance.

Choosing the Right Tank Size for Propane

Choosing the right propane tank size for your home or business depends on some factors, namely: 

  1. Use
  2. Size of Property
  3. Geographical Location, and Local Climate
  4. Availability of Space

1. Use

What will you be using the propane for? Knowing which appliances and systems will feed off of propane is key to sizing the appropriate tank. A small grill may only require 20 lb. tank, while an entire house may require a 500-gallon or larger tank.

2. Size of Property

Space size of your home or business. You need a large tank if you live in a big house with many appliances using propane. For most homes, a 500-gallon tank is sufficient, but bigger houses need a 1,000-gallon tank.

3. Location and Climate

The geographical location as well as the general climate of an area may also determine how much propane you’ll consume. Houses in colder regions require larger tanks because they produce more heat during winter seasons.

4. Availability of Space

Where do you plan to locate your propane tank? If the space is limited, then it is best suited to be put underground; however, if you want convenience and easy access then an above-ground would be suitable.

Installation and Maintenance

Once you have selected the right propane tank size, you are ready to install. To ensure safety during installation and whether it complies with local regulations, you should hire a licensed propane professional such as LP Propane. A professional installation will make you well-equipped at avoiding possible hazards and will ensure the best performance of the tank. Regular maintenance checks should also be used with your propane system to ensure safe operation since possible problems may be detected beforehand and before they become major ones.

Maintenance Tips

  • Regular check-ups should be scheduled in order to ensure that the propane system is safe and reliable.
  •  Propane tanks should always be kept in an open area and away from any source of flammable material.
  • Many keep checking their propane levels regularly and add more because you would not want to run out.

Conclusion

To make the right decision in choosing the appropriate propane tank for your needs, you will need to know the standard propane tank dimensions and capacities. Ranging from small 20 lb tanks to larger 1,000-gallon tanks, they all have a purpose. LP Propane is committed to finding you the ideal propane solution to fuel your home or business. Be it the need for a portable tank, with which you’d grill, or if the tank is being used for heating your home, our staff will be by your side every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our propane tank options and services.