What Size Propane Tank Do I Need?
Propane tanks come in a wide range of sizes, from the familiar 20-lb grill cylinder to 1,000-gallon residential tanks buried in the yard. Choosing the right size depends on what you're powering, how much you use it, and whether you want to refill frequently or go months between fills. Here's a breakdown of every common tank size and when to use it.
Tank Size Comparison Chart
| Tank Size | Propane Capacity | Best For | Refill Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 lb (disposable) | 1 lb | Camp stoves, lanterns, small torches | Disposable — replace |
| 20 lb | ~4.7 gal | Gas grills, patio heaters, camp stoves | Refill station or exchange |
| 33 lb | ~8 gal | Forklifts, commercial equipment | Refill station |
| 40 lb | ~9.4 gal | RVs, campers, larger outdoor appliances | Refill station |
| 100 lb | ~25 gal | Whole-home backup, large generators, turkey fryers | Propane dealer delivery or refill |
| 250 gal | 200 gal usable | Whole-home heating, cooking, water heating | Dealer delivery |
| 500 gal | 400 gal usable | Whole-home heating in colder climates, small farms | Dealer delivery |
| 1,000 gal | 800 gal usable | Large homes, agricultural operations, commercial use | Dealer delivery |
20 lb Tanks: The Standard Grill Cylinder
The 20-lb cylinder is by far the most common propane tank in American backyards. It fits standard gas grills, most patio heaters, portable camp stoves, and tabletop fire pits. A full 20-lb tank holds about 4.7 gallons of propane and will power a typical grill through 15–20 grilling sessions.
You can refill a 20-lb tank at any propane refill station or swap it at exchange kiosks found at hardware and grocery stores. For more on the cost difference, see Propane Exchange vs Refill.
40 lb Tanks: RV and Camper Standard
RVs and campers commonly use 40-lb tanks (sometimes a pair of them) to power the stovetop, water heater, refrigerator, and furnace. A 40-lb tank holds about 9.4 gallons and provides roughly twice the run time of a 20-lb cylinder. Most RV supply stores and many propane dealers can refill 40-lb tanks.
100 lb Tanks: Home Backup and Large Appliances
A 100-lb cylinder (about 25 gallons) is common for homeowners who use propane for a backup generator, whole-home generator, or a high-BTU commercial grill. Some dedicated propane dealers can refill 100-lb tanks on-site; others require scheduling a delivery. Call ahead before driving across town with a large tank.
250 and 500 Gallon Tanks: Whole-Home Systems
If you're heating your entire home, running a propane range, water heater, and dryer — or living in a rural area without natural gas service — you likely need a 250 or 500-gallon tank. These are installed by propane dealers, either above ground or buried, and are filled by a delivery truck on a scheduled or automatic basis.
In Texas, a 250-gallon tank typically serves a home that uses propane primarily for cooking and water heating. A 500-gallon tank covers whole-home heating in addition to cooking and hot water, and is the most common residential size for rural Texas and New Mexico properties.
How to Choose the Right Size
Use these rules of thumb:
- Grill only: 20 lb is perfect
- Grill + patio heater: 20 lb works; consider keeping a spare
- RV: 40 lb (one or two tanks depending on usage)
- Generator backup: 100 lb minimum; 250 gal for extended outages
- Whole-home heating: 250–500 gal depending on home size and climate
- Farm or commercial: 500–1,000 gal
Where to Refill Your Tank
For 20–40 lb tanks, use our directory to find refill stations near you. Browse by city: Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, Fort Worth, Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and more. Or view all locations on our interactive map. For larger tanks (100 lb and above), contact a local propane dealer directly for delivery and service options.