The weight of a gallon of propane is 4.11 pounds. That is, if you measure it at 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s vital to remember that LPG’s density of 4.11 lb/gallon only applies at room temperature (77F).
Gases (even liquified gasses like liquid propane) expand at higher temperatures and contract at lower temperatures, as we all know. As a result, when we calculate how much propane weighs per gallon, we must additionally factor in the temperature.
This also explains why the 80 percent maximum filling guideline is necessary when filling propane tanks. In the third section, we’ll utilize this rule to figure out how many gallons a 20-pound propane tank can contain. A 20-pound gas tank can only carry 16 pounds of propane.
To demonstrate that a gallon of propane does not always weigh 4.11 pounds, here are some propane densities at various temperatures:
Higher temperatures cause the density of propane to decrease, the volume of propane to increase, and the pressure within a propane tank to rise.
Reduce the temperature by increasing the density of propane, reducing the volume of propane, and lowering the pressure inside a propane tank.
In a 20 gallon gas tank, how many pounds of propane are there?
Few people know that when I was in high school, I worked at Taylor Hardware as a gas filling machine. As a result, I’m familiar with tank tare weights (the weight of an empty tank) and other propane jargon.
For the past seven years, I’ve been hooking up my faithful Weber barbecue to a 500 gallon underground tank at my Taylors home. When I relocated to an all-electric house earlier this year, I had to go back to a conventional 20-pound BBQ grill tank. I also explored cylinders weighing 30, 33, 40, 60, and 100 pounds to prevent having to refill as frequently. I discovered that new 30 or 33 lb cylinders cost at least twice as much as 20 lb cylinders, and that locating lightly used ones on Craigslist was impossible.
I paid 29.97 for a new 20-pound tank from Home Depot, which included a 10% off competitors coupon and a 10% discount on an eBay gift card. (Tanks at Costco are 28.99, whereas Amazon’s are around $45). So, where do you put it?
A Little About Propane Tanks
These “20 pound” tanks can hold up to 20 pounds of propane. Depending on the temperature of the tank and surrounding air when it was filled, you may get a pound or two less. More propane in when it’s cooler, less when it’s hotter. Tanks can hold an additional 20% of water, but that extra capacity is designed to expand as the temperature rises.
Filling a tank to the full 20 pound capacity may be more of a concern/rule in particularly cold winter climates, such as Canada. This is because if you leave a tank outside in bitterly cold temperatures, fill it when it’s cold, and then move it into a heated basement/garage to use as a space heater, the gas will expand as it warms. The pressure relief setting in the tank will release a little amount of gas if the temperature rises sufficiently. If the relief value was seeping to outside air, this would be less of an issue.
The “tare weight” or “T.W.” is stamped on the collar of every propane tank. Calculate the tare weight + 20 lbs for a grill-sized tank, and that’s how much the tank should weigh when it’s filled. When entirely empty, most 20 pound tanks have a tare weight of +/- 17 pounds. A propane tank that is “full” should weigh around 37 pounds.
The collar also has a month and year on it, showing when the tank was constructed. For 20-pound propane tanks, you have 12 years from the date of manufacture to re-certify the tank with a new date stamped on it. Re-certification simply adds 5 years to the time between re-certifications. Almost always, the cost and hassle of re-certifying outweighs the cost of a new tank.
New propane tanks may contain air and need to be “purged” before being filled for the first time. Some newer tanks, such as Bernzomatic’s, will have a tag on them stating that they do not need to be purged within 6 months of purchase.
Purging necessitates the use of a particular adaptor that allows a limited quantity of propane to enter. A one-way bleeder valve is then pushed open by the pressure. Purging a new tank can cost an extra $3-4 dollars, though some places don’t charge for it, especially if you buy the tank from them.
The Math on Refills at Costco
When I contacted around, I discovered that a refill at the nearby U-Haul would cost $16. I recall seeing a sign at Costco advertising $9.99 refills. I thought I was getting a good deal, but it turned out I was getting nothing.
Costco in Greenville, SC is misleading since they hand you a slip with the words “20 pound cylinder” on it. The receipt shows “20lb PROPANE” when you pay inside, and the filling printout states “Cylinder: 20S lbs.” The only justification is that the printing of the filling is accurate, stating “3.6 gallons.” Nobody, on the other hand, is aware that a propane tank must contain 4.7 gallons in order to be deemed “full.” They are concealing the fact that they put in 75% by reporting 3.6 gallons. “We will put 15 pounds of propane into this 20 lb cylinder,” they’d say if they wanted to be honest.
The rumour on the web forums is that similar exchange businesses like Blue Rhino and AmeriGas put in 75 percent, or 15 pounds.
If you do the math on Costco, you’ll see that it’s not a horrible deal. It’s comparable to, if not less expensive than, $16 for a whole 20 pound bag. However, Costco’s use of the phrase “20 pound” is regrettable. I believe their motivation is to offer a lower price so that members believe they are receiving a good bargain. Plus, by only occupying 75 percent of the slots, members are more likely to return and shop inside while they wait.
Conclusion
- Owning a propane tank and re-filling it will be less expensive than hiring an exchange service if you’re seeking for the best deal. You pay a premium for convenience, as is customary.
- Inquire about the amount of propane that will be put into the cylinder. For full capacity, there should be 20 pounds going in.
- When you arrive home, weigh the tank; it should weigh around 37 pounds. If it weights 31-32 pounds, it’s safe to assume that just 15 pounds of propane were used.
Bonus – Weber Grills
At Taylor Hardware, I also put the grills together. We sold a lot of Weber grills, and they were by far the best. With proper care and a cover, your Weber barbecue can easily last 10-20 years. You can buy other low-cost brands, but their steel parts will rust in 2-3 years. You can buy a fancy-looking stainless steel grill from Home Depot that won’t rust, but it will cook unevenly or the handle or wheels will break off, and you’ll be back in the store in five years to buy another one.
Bonus – Side Burners
I also assisted in the sale of the BBQ grills. We did sell a couple with side burners, but they were never heavily promoted. Despite their best efforts, I recall many talks with clients who had previously paid more for a side burner and never used it. You’re probably only going to use the side burner once or twice, so don’t spend the money unless you’re certain you’ll use it.
How long would a 100-pound gas tank keep you going?
Examples. Your 100-pound bottle will fuel your propane fireplace for roughly 84 hours at a consumption rate of 26,000 BTU per hour, which is equivalent to 3.5 days of continuous 24/7 running.
Is propane susceptible to deterioration over the winter?
Another reason to use Bottini Fuel for propane delivery is that propane does not have a shelf life or an expiration date. This is due to the fact that propane is non-perishable! Other fuels, such as kerosene, diesel, heating oil, and gasoline, can degrade with time.
What is the average lifespan of a propane tank?
1. What should you do if your propane tank has run out?
When those 12 years are over, you have the option of replacing the tank or having it inspected for requalification for another five years of use.
2. What is the expiration date of the propane tank?
The date of manufacturing or requalification of a propane tank is stamped on its collar. It will be written in a month-year format, such as 06-21 for June 2021.
3. How should old propane tanks be disposed of?
Propane tanks with a volume of 100 pounds or less have a 12-year shelf life from the date of manufacturing. When those 12 years are over, you have the option of replacing the tank or having it inspected for requalification for another five years of use.
4. What is the average lifespan of a tank?
Propane tanks with a volume of 100 pounds or less have a 12-year shelf life from the date of manufacturing.
5. Do all tanks have an expiration date?
Large propane tanks used for residential heating and hot water are restricted by federal container restrictions in most states. According to the legislation, a propane tank can only be filled by the owner or someone authorized to act on their behalf. In practice, this means that the majority of household propane users lease their tank from a fuel supplier, who is responsible for keeping track of the tank’s expiration date.
6. Where can I have my propane tanks recertified?
Is it possible to transport a 420-pound propane tank?
Every person who uses a gas grill, runs a generator, or needs propane to heat their home or water has had a tank refilled and loaded into their car.
Are your consumers, on the other hand, doing it correctly? Is this, to be more explicit, being done in a safe manner?
Propane sellers should educate their customers on how to move propane cylinders safely. Let’s go over a few essential items to make sure they’re on the same page before they leave your lot.
In a sedan or SUV, no more than four propane cylinders can be carried at once. The total combined weight of all the cylinders in an enclosed vehicle should not exceed 90 pounds, and no single cylinder shall have a propane capacity of more than 45 pounds. All propane cylinders must be positioned vertically and upright.
A reliable propane tank holder and stabilizer is the safest way to secure a propane cylinder in a vehicle. These tank holders are safe and secure because they fit firmly around the propane cylinder or lock into the cylinder’s foot ring.
Many individuals prefer to transport their milk in a milk box. The cylinders will remain vertical in the crates since they are strong. It’s also acceptable to secure a propane cylinder with rope, twine, or a ratchet strap, but make sure consumers have a sturdy anchor point in their vehicle.
In the back of an open pickup truck or trailer, customers can transport up to 1,000 pounds of propane. The propane cylinders, on the other hand, must be transported vertically and upright.
A 100-pound propane cylinder is heavy, and it should be loaded with caution and the assistance of another person. Because a full 100-pound cylinder can weigh up to 180 pounds, make sure to help customers properly load these into the back of their vehicle or trailer.
Locate the anchor locations once the propane cylinder has been loaded into the back of the truck. Educate your customer on how to secure the cylinder in the vertical, upright position using twine, rope, or other tie-downs at the base, near the foot ring, and at the top. For those who aren’t comfortable making knots, ratchet straps and other tie-downs are available.
Even if forklift cylinders are designed to be used horizontally, make sure clients understand that they should still be delivered vertically. When the cylinder is connected to a forklift, a pin locks the cylinder into a precise position, keeping the pressure relief valve in the cylinder’s vapor area. If the cylinder is transported on its side, it may roll and relocate the pressure relief valve to the bottom of the cylinder’s liquid chamber.
If a client tries to transfer a 100-pound propane cylinder in a sedan or SUV, or if the customer places the tank on its side, take a moment to explain why this is not safe and the dangers that could result from incorrect propane cylinder transportation. Assist them in correcting their error or hold their cylinder until they can return with the appropriate equipment and/or vehicle.
Always do a quality pre-fill inspection before filling a cylinder for your own and your customers’ safety, and wear personal protective equipment at all times.
Here are a few pointers to remember the next time you sell or fill a propane cylinder. Safety should always come first, and that starts with understanding propane.
Is it possible to haul a 100-pound propane tank on its side?
- In an enclosed vehicle, do not transport more than 90 lbs of total propane weight.
- When in an enclosed vehicle, one (1) cylinder can only hold a total of 45 lbs of propane.
- A pickup truck can haul up to 1,000 pounds of propane, making it perfect for transporting large tanks.
In a sedan or SUV, no more than four propane cylinders can be carried at once. A single cylinder should not hold more than 45 pounds of propane, and the overall weight of all cylinders in a vehicle should not exceed 90 pounds. All propane cylinders must be positioned vertically and upright.
A reliable propane tank holder and stabilizer is the safest way to secure a propane cylinder in a vehicle. These tank holders are safe and secure because they fit firmly around the propane cylinder or lock into the cylinder’s foot ring. Many individuals prefer to transport their milk in a milk box. The cylinders will remain vertical in the crates since they are strong. It’s also acceptable to secure a propane cylinder using rope, twine, or a ratchet strap, but make sure you have a suitable anchor point in their automobile.
In the back of an open pickup truck or trailer, you can transport up to 1,000 pounds of propane. The propane cylinders, on the other hand, must be transported vertically and upright. A 100-pound propane cylinder is heavy, and it should be loaded with caution and the assistance of another person. A fully loaded 100-pound cylinder can weigh up to 180 pounds, so be sure to ask for help loading the tank safely into your vehicle. A 100-pound cylinder should never be transported in a sedan or SUV, especially on its side.
Locate the anchor locations once the propane cylinder has been loaded into the back of the truck. Secure the cylinder in the vertical, upright position with twine, rope, or other tie-downs at the base, near the foot ring, and at the top. For those who aren’t comfortable making knots, ratchet straps and other tie-downs are available.
Even if forklift cylinders are designed to be used horizontally, make sure clients understand that they should still be delivered vertically. When the cylinder is connected to a forklift, a pin locks the cylinder into a precise position, keeping the pressure relief valve in the cylinder’s vapor area. If the cylinder is transported on its side, it may roll and relocate the pressure relief valve to the bottom of the cylinder’s liquid chamber.
Are you able to set up gas tanks?
Unless the cylinder is particularly constructed for so, never lay a propane cylinder on its side. Forklift cylinders are designed to be horizontal; when carrying, keep the cylinder upright if possible, or lay it down with the pinhole at the bottom so the relief valve is at the top and the relief valve is in the vapour space.
How long will a house last on 100 gallons of propane?
We use a variety of home propane tank sizes for heating. The smallest of these tanks is a 100-gallon propane tank. We’ll investigate how long a 100-gallon propane tank can be used to heat a home.
At first glance, the math appears to be straightforward. The 100-gallon propane tank, for example, will last 50 40 days if we use 2 gallons of propane every day for heating. Because of the 80 percent tank rule, a 100 gallon propane tank does not contain 100 gallons of propane when fully charged; instead, it contains 80 gallons of propane when fully charged (safety measure).
In practice, though, we must consider our heating requirements. These are mostly determined by the size of our residence (square footage). As we’ll see later, 100-gallon propane will last anywhere from 11 to 85 days depending on home size and propane consumption in the United States (almost 3 months).
To figure out how long a 100-gallon propane tank will endure, we’ll need to know the following information:
- A 100-gallon propane tank holds 80 gallons of propane when fully charged. This is a safety precaution; if a 100 gallon contained 100 gallons of propane, the pressure on the internal wall of the propane tank may become dangerously high at higher temperatures.
We can figure out how long a 100-gallon propane tank will survive in two ways:
We’ll demonstrate how to perform both calculations. You should use the first calculation if you know your heating demand (which can range from 10,000 to 200,000 BTU/h).
The second estimate, which is based on average propane consumption and house size, is a simpler way to figure out how long a 100-gallon tank will last.
Note: You may find out how long all propane tanks (from 1 pound to 2,000 gallon) last by visiting this page.
Let’s start with the theoretical calculation, then go on to the far more realistic second calculation (house size based):