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Propane is one of the best home heating fuels. Homeowners can save money and reduce their environmental impact because propane is an efficient energy source. If you are one of the lucky homeowners who use propane as your residential energy source, then at some point, you will face the inevitable propane tank replacement. You can use this as an opportunity to upgrade your tank size, especially if you use propane for more than just home heating. Naturally, using propane for water heating, cooking, and more will increase your propane consumption. This article discusses what to consider when debating which of the propane tank sizes will best meet your needs.
How Big Does My Home Propane Tank Size Need To Be?
Keep reading to learn several considerations when picking the residential propane tank ideal for your heating needs.
Size of the Home
The most essential factor to consider is the home size if the primary use of propane is heating. A 2,500-square-foot. A 2,500-square-foot home typically needs a 500-gallon tank. Double the tank size if the floor size is twice as big.
Number of Dependent Propane Appliances
The initial estimate is focused on the heating needs. You will have increased fuel needs if there are other propane-powered appliances, like a stove, water heater, and clothes dryer. Consider all equipment that utilizes this fuel to work and adjust as needed.
Size of the Family
A large family uses more propane than a small one. They vary in their daily fuel needs. For instance, think about how many times people wash their hands, cook meals, take showers, and do other activities that require propane.
Space Available
Homeowners should check the area on their property where the new propane tank will be installed. A larger horizontal propane tank requires a wide yard. You may have to install a vertical propane tank if you own a small yard. Contact a reputable propane company to learn about your options.
Location of the Home
Your propane needs also rely on the region’s climate. Some areas may experience harsher winters. Homeowners should also consider how close the propane provider is to their home. Deliveries from far away mean you may have to wait a long time if the weather is bad. Choosing a large tank that can last longer is prudent in this situation.
Why Do You Need to Find the Right Propane Tank Size?
Here are several reasons it is important to have a suitable propane tank size at home:
Avoiding Frequent Propane Deliveries
A tank that’s too small for your home means the propane will be depleted quickly. As a result, you will require frequent propane deliveries. This can cause inconveniences and difficulties when there’s bad weather. Avoid this issue by getting the right propane tank size.
Minimizing Upfront Propane Fuel Costs
Some homeowners may be attracted to buying the biggest tank available to prevent the need for frequent deliveries. However, this isn’t always the practical route. Keep in mind that large propane tanks require large spaces. Large tanks also come with a heftier price tag. However, having a larger propane tank means you can take advantage of reducing propane costs because you can buy the fuel in bulk.
Considering Safety Regulations
Propane is quite safe, but local governments remain cautious about propane tank installation. Larger tanks have stricter regulations in place than smaller ones. You should consider the feasibility of the rules before installing a larger tank.
What Do Home Propane Tank Sizes Refer To?
Tank sizes can be described in one of two ways: volume and weight. Volume refers to the liquid in gallons within the tanks. On the other hand, weight is in pounds when the tank is full. Regardless, the tanks should only be filled up to 80% of their capacity. The 20% acts as a safety buffer for expansion.
What are the Common Propane Tank Sizes Available?
Listed below are the common sizes of propane tanks in the market:
- 1LB Tank: This size is usually suitable for fuel camping stoves and portable grills. They can be easily bought at supermarkets and hardware stores.
- 20LB/5Gallon Tank: This is typically used for large BBQ grills. You can refill these at local gas stations.
- 33LB/8Gallon Tank: These are suitable for demanding applications like powering forklifts and farm vehicles for a few hours. However, they are typically too small to heat a home.
- 100LB/25Gallon Tank: This size may be utilized to heat small homes and occasionally propane some propane-powered appliances. This tank may run out faster when used frequently.
- 200LB/57Gallon Tank: This is a good fit for small homes with big needs because it provides a good amount of fuel. You will have fewer worries about using it constantly.
- 420LB/100Gallon Tank: This tank size can do more like heating a pool and keeping a fireplace going for long periods.
- 500Gallon Tank: This size is the most commonly used for home heating, cooking, and others. The fuel in it should last longer, but the storage tank is also bigger. These tanks require a ten-foot clearance around them for safety.
- 1,000Gallon Tank: Bigger homes may find a 500-gallon tank to be insufficient. They can choose to use a 1,000-gallon tank instead to match the structure’s scale.
Conclusion
Be careful when choosing a propane tank size. The choice will impact the reliability of your home heating and installation cost. Consider the needs of your home with regard to how many occupants and appliances are in your home. You should also think about the home’s size and location. Look for a tank that meets all your needs so you can enjoy using it for a long time. Talk to a reputable propane supplier near you to determine which propane tank size best suits your needs.
Call Lake Region Energy For Superior Propane Delivery Services
If you’re looking for a reliable propane delivery service in Cumberland County, ME, and the surrounding area, call Lake Region Energy. Our fuel deliveries are prompt, affordable, and provided with a friendly touch.
We take pride in providing unmatched service every time. Contact us today to learn about our various delivery plans and financing options. We offer a comprehensive range of HVAC services to improve your home’s energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and overall comfort. Our services include heating and cooling tune-ups, repairs, installations, and more. Don’t hesitate to call Lake Region Energy now!
For more information about our propane deliveries and HVAC services, be sure to contact Lake Region Energy. You can click here to contact us, or you can call us at (207) 839-5500 to find out more. We offer a full line of heating and cooling repairs, maintenance services, and installations.