Types of Propane Tanks
Propane tanks come in various types. Each type offers distinct benefits such as easy grip, purging and filling. To decide which tank size you should get, you’ve got to first understand the types available in detail.
Above Ground Tanks
Above ground tanks are one of the most popular tank options. They cost you much less than underground tanks. If anything goes wrong, it can be easily checked and repaired.
Above-ground tanks are more visible and can be accessed easily for maintenance work. As they’re placed above ground, it makes them less durable during severe weather conditions. It’s much safer because it stands a few inches off the ground and it’s bolted down. This makes the tank more stable.
Underground Tanks
Underground tanks are usually larger and it comes in many sizes. These are mainly used by homeowners who want to use one large tank to run all their appliances. These are a more complicated to install as it need excavation and backfilling. These tanks need special care during installation. It’s important to keep an eye out for leaks and corrosion.
These are less visible as they’re placed under the ground. They don't mess up the look of your yard. At most, you might have to plant some more grass. The only thing you need to look out for is the little 'collar' that sticks out into your yard. Just remember to not keep anything on top of it.
These are better shielded from weather conditions and have a less chance of physical impact.
Call 811 before you install an underground tank to ensure a safer excavation process and avoid accidental damage.
Choosing The Right Propane Tank Size For Your Home
The right propane tank sizes for your home can help you save energy and money. You must consider your propane usage, home size and climate to make sure you choose the ideal tank for your household needs. To choose the right propane tank for your home, keep the following factors in mind:
Be Clear About the Total Use of Propane
Before you try to figure out propane tank dimensions, you need to first understand how you are planning to use it.
Common home uses include heating the whole house or extra heating, Propane fireplaces, gas dryers, and cooking (gas stoves, ovens, gas outdoor grills). It is also used in tankless water heaters, pools and classic gas water heaters.
Calculate How Much Propane You Will Use
Figure out your propane use to understand the home propane tank size you’ll need. Think about all the machines and systems you'll be using the gas for.
- Outdoor grill
- Fireplace
- Oven
- Room heaters
- Camping stove
- RV stove
- Portable heater
- Hot tub heater
- Water pumps
- Backup power systems
- RV refrigerators
Think about the Size of Your Home
As a general rule of thumb, figure out the tank's size using the house's square footage. Bigger homes generally have more usage due to more devices and appliances. The layout and insulation of the house are also a huge factor. Well-insulated homes need less propane for heating, whereas older homes need more.
Consider the Climate
Larger houses or those built in colder climates need more propane, which means more consumption.
Common Propane Tank Sizes and Their Uses
Here are some common propane tank sizes and their typical residential uses:
Grilling and Outdoor Cooking
20 lb tanks are ideal for small appliances (such as grills, outdoor stoves and portable heaters). You can run it on a grill for 18-20 hours. However, you can run it on a portable heater for several hours. It is best to use if you want it for outside the house sometimes.
House Heating and Cooking
120-gallon tanks are suitable for small homes and cabins. They can be used as a backup for heating and cooking needs. You can run it for almost 8-12 hours. This makes it fit for moderate heating of the house. Perfect for extended cooking sessions as well.
Heating the House Throughout the Entire Year
1000-gallon or 500-gallon tanks are meant for full-house heating. These are also perfect for all heavy uses. It can run heating systems and devices for 2 to 14 months. This size is ideal for homes that need heating all year long.
Things to Consider When Selecting the Right Propane Tank Size for Your Home
Before you choose the propane tank sizes, keep in mind the following:
- Usage patterns: Keep in mind how often and for how long you will be using the propane tank. A small 100-lb tank is good enough for occasional cooking and outdoor grilling. Opt for a larger tank if you plan to use the tank, like 500 or 1000 gallons, for daily heating, cooking and heating water.
- Heating requirements: Factor in climate conditions, as you’ll need it for house heating. Also, to meet the hot water demands. As heating needs are higher in colder weather, a 500 gallon tank will work better. In mild climates, a 250-gallon tank is good enough.
- Safety regulations: You need to make sure you meet all safety policies. Keep in mind all the safety needs when you install the propane tank. For example, above-ground tanks need a level floor. However, underground tanks need proper burial depth.
- Budget: Don’t just consider the cost of buying. Think about how much it will cost to install, maintain and refill. Above-ground tanks cost less and are more affordable to install. However they need to be refilled regularly. Underground tanks are costlier since they need to be installed inside a pit. This allows the tank to store more propane. Such a system proves to be cost effective in the long run since it lowers the frequency and cost of refills over time.
- Space for installation: Check how much space you have. Then, decide about the type of tank you should install. For example, if you have an open space, go for an above-ground tank. It is easily adjusted and cheaper. But an underground tank is a better choice if you have limited yard space.