Small propane tank gauges

Thinking ahead to ice fishing this winter. I use a 20# tank for mu little portable fish house heater. When the tank starts feeling a little light, I start carrying a second full tank in case I run out. Has anyone used a propane tank level indicator? Are they reasonably accurate? How do they work when the tank sits outside on the lake in -15 degree weather? I'm looking at the gauges on Amazon that seem to run around $15. The last couple years I have been weighing the tank and subtracting the tare weight stamped on the tank; that seems to work pretty well, but wondering if there's a simpler way like a gauge.

 

weight is likely the most accurate way since the pressure can vary by temperature a gauge may not be that accurate the lower the temperature the lower the pressure in the tank.

 

I've never had a tank with a gauge that worked very well or for very long. usually they read full or very near full until they are very nearly empty.

Get yourself a strap scale used for weighing suitcases before travel. Doesn't take up much room and makes it easy to check the weight.

 

Thanks for the replies, I'll ditch the gauge idea! I hadn't thought about a strap scale, that's a great idea.

 

As mentioned, weight is the easiest way to accurately know. The tank will have it's empty weight stamped on it, usually with the letters T. W. (tare weight).

If you want a "fuel gauge" consider going to a 30lb forklift tank. Most have a mechanical float type fuel gauge. Of course the tank will be heavier but lightweight aluminum or fiberglass tanks are available but are more expensive. If using a forklift tank make sure you use the tank in the proper orientation (vertical or horizontal) and you use the correct port (liquid vs vapor) for your heater.