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The most common propane gas tank sizes:

  • 100 Pound (lb) Propane Tank
  • 100 Gallon Propane Tank
  • 500 Gallon Propane Tank
  • 1000 Gallon Propane Tank

Learn what propane gas tank size is best for you

The most common propane gas tank sizes for residences include 100lb tanks, 100 gallon tanks, and 500 gallon tanks.

But what size is best for your home depends on usage. Whether you’re just getting started with propane heating or you’re moving into a new place where you’re not quite sure how much you’ll need, it’s good to re-evaluate what size propane tank you need.

Choosing the right size propane gas tank can save you money. There are several propane tank sizes to choose from, so let’s figure out which is right for you.

Propane gas tank sizes typically used in the south eastern Pennsylvania homes we serve range from 100lb at the smallest to 500 gallon for larger homes. Larger tanks are available, but they are usually used for commercial purposes.

Top 4 most common propane gas tank sizes and their usage:

100lb Propane Tank

For Mixed Heating Systems

100lb propane tanks are great for mixed heating systems or residences with limited propane usage.

  • Common usage: 100lb propane tanks are commonly used for cooking and drying clothes.
  • Placement: Above Ground
  • Volume: 23.6 gallons

100lb propane tank

100 Gallon Propane Tank

Heating Smaller Homes with Propane

Small residences that use propane for whole house heating often have a tank of at leat 100 gallons (not pounds).

  • Common usage: Whole house heating and gas cooking range for small residences and mobile homes. Many mobile homes use two 100 gallon propane tanks to heat their homes.
  • Placement: Above Ground

100 gallon propane tank

500 Gallon Propane Tank

Heating Larger Homes and Appliances

Many homes with 1,500+ square feet choose to upgrade to a 500 gallon propane tank. Because it holds more, homeowners don’t have to fill up as often.

  • Common usage: Fueling propane furnaces, gas fireplaces, gas ranges, gas hot water heaters, and gas clothes dryers. Homes often use propane to fuel 2 or more appliances.
  • Placement: Above Ground or Buried Underground

500 gallon propane tank

1000 Gallon Propane Tank

These extra large propane tanks are most common for agricultural customers and commercial businesses. Although rarer for residences, these are not unheard of. With a higher one-time investment, you’ll have greater control over when and where you fill up your tank. If you consistently buy at a low price, the savings can add up within a few years.

  • Common usage: Fueling businesses, agricultural machines, and large homes
  • Placement: Above ground or Buried Underground

1000 gallon propane tank

The right propane gas tank size also depends on how much propane gas your appliances use.

In addition to the furnace, remember that dryers use 15-25 gallons of propane per year, gas ranges 25-50, and hot water heaters between 200-300 gallons depending on the size of your family.

Things to Consider When You Choose Your Propane Gas Tank Size

Propane doesn’t go bad with time

If you have a good place to store your propane tanks, you could hold the gas for many years before using it. This is a huge advantage over diesel and other standard fuels that eventually go bad in storage. Although the pressure seals of propane tanks can become faulty, this is less likely if they are stored correctly.

How often you use propane and what you use propane for

There are two schools of thought regarding the right propane tank sizes. Generally, you’ll use your tank only during the winter, and it’ll sit idle all through the warmer months, so you can save on the cost of gas by choosing the smallest tank that will meet your needs. This is common when you have limited space for your tank or can’t use underground storage to conserve space.

On the other hand, if you have a large budget or like being “prepared for anything,” a larger tank may be appropriate. Homeowners who choose to buy a larger tank will be able to fill up on propane when prices are at their lowest and might not have to fill up again during the winter.

Square footage of your home and the total BTU of propane gas appliances

Using the square footage of your home and the total BTU load of all your appliances, you may be able to get a good estimate of your average propane use in a year.

This is becoming easier as more appliances integrate “smart” technology to measure and reduce your usage. Generally speaking, though, a close estimate will be fine for most homes.

You should upgrade your propane gas tank size if your usage increases

Propane makes it easy for you to scale your usage up or down as your needs change. Don’t be too worried about making the “wrong” choice. After the first year, you’ll have a much clearer idea of your needs and can refine your heating approach to save even more money.

FAQs

What is the most common propane tank size?

The most commonly used propane tank size for residential purposes is the 20-pound tank. Typically, these tanks are used for home heating, cooking, and running appliances. They are also the standard size for barbecue grills. Their popularity is due to their convenience, affordability, and ease of exchange or refill at numerous locations.

What are the different types of propane tanks?

Propane tanks come in various sizes and types, each suited for different needs. The main types include:

  • Portable Tanks: Ranging from 1 pound to 40 pounds, these are used for camping, portable cooking, and small heating appliances.
  • Residential Tanks: Common sizes include 20 pounds (common for grills), 100 pounds, 250 gallons, and 500 gallons. These are used for home heating, cooking, and powering appliances.
  • Commercial Tanks: Larger sizes like 1,000 gallons or more, catering to commercial buildings, industrial sites, or large residential complexes.

What are common grill propane tank sizes?

The most common size for grill propane tanks is the 20-pound tank. These are widely used because of their portability and compatibility with most standard grills. Other smaller sizes, like the 1-pound tanks, are also used for portable grills and outdoor cooking equipment.

Should I get a 250 or 500 gallon propane tank?

Choosing between a 250 and 500 gallon propane tank depends on your usage and needs. A 250 gallon tank is suitable for medium consumption, like heating a small to medium-sized home or using appliances. If you have a larger home, use multiple propane appliances, or live in a colder climate with higher heating requirements, a 500 gallon tank might be more appropriate. It’s important to assess your average propane usage and consult with a propane supplier to determine the best size for your needs.