Propane Tank Options For Travel Trailers: Choosing The Right Size

Propane tanks are an essential part of any travel trailer, as they power many of the appliances that make the experience enjoyable and comfortable. The size of the propane tank you need depends on several factors, including the size of your trailer, how much propane your appliances use, and how often you use them.

There are two main types of propane tanks used in travel trailers: ASME tanks and DOT cylinders. ASME tanks are permanently mounted and typically used in motorhomes, while DOT cylinders are removable and common in travel trailers and fifth wheels.

The most common sizes for propane tanks in RVs are 20 lbs, 30 lbs, and 40 lbs. A 20-pound propane tank is the standard size for most RVs and can be found at grocery stores or Wal-Mart for exchange. 30-pound tanks offer more propane and are still manageable for one person to handle, while 40-pound tanks are less common but provide even more fuel.

ASME tanks are permanently mounted and used on motorhomes

ASME tanks are typically refilled at RV filling stations, as they cannot be removed from the motorhome. It is important to note that only 80% of the tank's capacity should be filled to allow for propane expansion at higher temperatures. When refilling, it is crucial to turn off all pilot lights for appliances such as refrigerators, furnaces, and water heaters. Regular maintenance and inspection of ASME tanks is necessary to ensure they are in proper working condition.

ASME tanks play a crucial role in powering essential appliances in motorhomes, and their permanent mounting provides a reliable fuel source for various amenities that enhance the overall RVing experience.

DOT cylinders are removable and used on travel trailers

There are two types of propane tanks found on RVs: ASME tanks and DOT cylinders. ASME tanks are permanently mounted and typically found on motorhomes, whereas DOT cylinders are removable and used on travel trailers, fifth wheels, truck campers, and some small motorhomes.

DOT cylinders are approved by the Department of Transportation and can be mounted in exterior compartments or in RV propane tank holders on the tongue or bumper of the trailer. They are generally smaller than ASME tanks, usually ranging from 20 to 40 pounds, and must be recertified after a certain number of years.

The size of the DOT cylinder will depend on the size of the travel trailer and the propane requirements. A small travel trailer or truck camper typically has a single 20-pound DOT cylinder, while a large fifth-wheel camper may carry a series of 40-pound cylinders, providing a propane capacity of over 100 pounds.

The benefit of DOT cylinders is that they can be removed and taken to a propane dealer for refilling. This is especially convenient when camping off-grid or in cold weather, as more propane will be needed to keep the trailer comfortable. Additionally, DOT cylinders give users the option to change out their tanks and use a different size, depending on their needs.

When choosing a propane tank size, it is important to consider how long the propane tanks will last, the weight of the tanks, and whether to refill or exchange them. For example, while 40-pound tanks may be ideal for longer trips in cold weather, they are heavier and more difficult to handle than smaller tanks.

In summary, DOT cylinders are a versatile and convenient option for travel trailer owners, offering flexibility in terms of size and the ability to remove and refill the tanks as needed.

20-pound tanks are the most common size

20-pound propane tanks are the most common size for travel trailers. They are also the standard size for RVs in general. These tanks are popular because they are readily available at grocery stores, gas stations, and hardware stores. They are also easy to transport and refill.

The 20-pound propane tank is one of the smallest options available, making it convenient for campers who do not plan to use propane frequently. These tanks can hold around five gallons of propane, which is typically enough for a week of warm-weather camping.

If you have a 20-pound propane tank, you can expect it to last for 420 hours based on a 1,000 BTU demand. However, as demand increases, the tank will empty faster. It's important to note that propane bottles are considered “filled” at 80% capacity to allow for expansion due to heat conditions.

Another advantage of 20-pound tanks is that they are easy to handle and refill. They are also a good option if you want to exchange your tank instead of refilling it. Exchange centres are common and can be found at gas stations, grocery stores, and hardware stores.

When choosing a propane tank for your travel trailer, it's important to consider the size and weight of the tank, as well as the amount of propane you will need for your trip. 20-pound tanks are a popular choice for travel trailers because they strike a balance between portability and fuel capacity.

33-pound tanks are less common but have a higher capacity

33-pound propane tanks are less common for travel trailers but have a higher capacity than 20-pound tanks. They are also heavier, and you will usually have two of these tanks at a time.

While 20-pound tanks are more readily available at grocery stores, gas stations, and hardware stores, 33-pound tanks are harder to come by. This can be inconvenient when it comes to refilling or exchanging your tank. With a 33-pound tank, you will need to keep the tank and get it refilled, whereas with a 20-pound tank, you can simply exchange it for a full one.

If you opt for a 33-pound tank, you will be refilling it less often because it holds more propane. However, depending on where you are, refilling it may be more challenging than exchanging a 20-pound tank.

Before choosing a propane tank size, consider your RV lifestyle and how much propane each of your appliances consumes on average. If you have limited space and don't want the hassle of finding storage for spare smaller tanks, a 33-pound tank might be a good option. On the other hand, if convenience and ease of refilling are more important to you, a 20-pound tank might be a better choice.

Ultimately, the decision between a 33-pound and a 20-pound propane tank depends on your specific needs and preferences. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, so consider your usage patterns and what is most important to you when making your decision.

You can calculate how much propane you need using BTUs

Propane is a fuel that powers many of your favourite appliances in a travel trailer. It is used for appliances such as refrigerators, furnaces, water heaters, and stoves. The amount of propane you need for your travel trailer depends on several factors, including the size of your trailer, the number of appliances, and how often you use them. You can calculate how much propane you need using BTUs (British Thermal Units).

First, you need to know how much propane your tank can hold when full. Typically, RV propane tanks are filled to 80% capacity to allow for the liquid gas to expand. You can find out how much propane you have in your tank by asking the attendant when you get a refill or by checking with the RV rental company.

Next, you need to determine the BTU capacity of your propane tank. There are 91,502 BTUs per gallon of propane and 21,548 BTUs per pound. You can calculate the BTU capacity by multiplying the number of gallons or pounds of propane in your tank by the corresponding BTU value.

Once you know the BTU capacity of your propane tank, you can estimate how long each of your appliances will run by dividing the BTU capacity of the tank by the BTU demand of the appliance. For example, if your propane tank has a capacity of 1,281,028 BTUs and your stove, water heater, and heater have a total BTU demand of 43,800 BTUs, you will be able to use those appliances for approximately 29 hours before running out of propane.

It is important to keep in mind that the outside temperature will affect your propane usage. In extremely cold temperatures below zero degrees, the BTU hourly capacity can be reduced by 50% or more. Additionally, the number of appliances you use simultaneously will also impact your propane usage.

By using these calculations, you can estimate how much propane you need for your travel trailer and ensure that you have enough fuel to power your appliances during your trip.

Frequently asked questions