Determining Proper BBQ Propane Tank Size

Determining a proper barbecue propane tank size can be done easily with a tape measure and a few key measurements. Knowing a barbecue propane tank’s size can allow for correct calculations as to how long the tank will last before it needs to be refilled. Additionally, due to the construction and hose lengths of many barbecues certain propane tanks must be used to insure a correct fit and application. Once the tank’s size is known, it would be good to record it somewhere inside the barbecue cabinet.

Step 1 - Weigh Propane Tank

A propane tank is measured by how much propane it holds in pounds. Begin by obtaining the weight of either the tank’s weight when totally full, or fully empty. Record the weight and whether the tank is full or empty. The use of the propane gas meter will help here, showing if the tank is full or empty. Record the tank size by carefully following the approximate weights as follows.

A full 20 pound size propane tank should weigh approximately 38 pounds when put on a scale; it will weigh only 18 pounds when emptied. A 30 pound tank will weigh a full 54 pounds when it is full, and about half that, 25 pounds when it is empty. A 40 pound tank will weigh in at about 70 pounds when full and only about 30 pounds when empty. For the larger size 100 pound propane tanks, they normally will weigh about 170 pounds when filled completely, and about 70 pounds when fully emptied.

Step 2 - Measuring Propane Tanks

There are 2 measurements required to correctly identify a propane tank size. Begin by taking a measurement around the widest part (usually the middle) of the propane tank. Record this measurement. Next, take a measurement from the bottom of the tank to the bottom of the collar at the top of the tank (do not include the measurement of the collar, only the tank from top to bottom). Use these 2 measurements as follows.

A 20 pound propane tank measures approximately 18 inches tall and about 12 1/2 inches around; a 30 pound tank measures 24 inches tall and the same diameter as a 20 pound tank; the 40 pound tank is the same diameter but it is 29 inches tall; for the 100 pound propane tank, its diameter is 14 1/2  inches and it is much taller than the others, measuring 48 inches high.

Step 3 - Homemade Calculations

Once the size of the propane tank is known, either by weight or size, simple calculations in conjunction with the propane gas meter can be made. These calculations can aid in determining how long a propane tank will provide gas before needing to be filled. The calculation can be done by simply looking at the gas meter each time the barbecue grill is used and noting the time of usage. Recording these times and observing the propane gas meter will quickly help determine the length of available usage of any size or weight of propane gas tank.