Tips & Information About Propane Tanks

By Cath Buhr


If you have decided to switch over to propane as one of your main sources of energy, the process begins by selecting a proper propane tank. These tanks come in several different sizes, and you need to purchase or lease one that will be large enough to suit your energy needs. Before you select a tank, consider the following tips.

Chances are you have seen a few of your neighbors' above-ground propane tanks. These are quite common and come in many sizes, from a small 100-gallon propane tank all the way up to big 1,000-gallon propane tanks. However, many people also have the option of having a 500-gallon propane tank or 1,000-gallon propane tank buried underground. This latter option costs a bit more upfront since there is more prep work involved, but it is definitely something you might wish to consider.

Every yard is different so it is important to know a little bit about the actual dimensions of the propane tanks for sale prior having one installed. For instance, a 500-gallon propane tank will measure about 10-feet from end to end with a 37-inch diameter. A 1,000-gallon tank is only about three or four inches wider in diameter, but they are about 16-feet long. A 250-gallon propane tank will be about 2 or 3 feet shorter with a 30-inch diameter.

Not only will you need to think about tank size in terms of what fits best in your yard, but also based upon how much propane you might need during the year. There are several factors to consider, such as the size of your house, how many people live in your home and which appliances will be running on propane. For a standard home with three bedrooms you probably will use at least 500 gallons of propane each year and perhaps as much as 1,000 gallons. Of course, your geographic area also is a factor, as areas prone to snow and freezing temperatures necessitate a greater use of a home's heating system.

Propane tank prices vary by size and by company, and you can rent them, buy them or lease-to-own a propane tank from some propane companies. Generally, a 100-gallon propane tank costs about $500. A 250-gallon propane tank might cost around $800, and a 500-gallon propane tank might be about $1,000. There also will be an installation fee, but this is usually only around $100 or a little more if you opt for a 1,000-gallon tank. The 1,000-gallon propane tank costs about $2,100. However, you can purchase refurbished tanks and this can save you hundreds of dollars. The refurbished tanks still have all new valves and paint, and also generally have a warranty.

When shopping around for propane delivery, be sure to check out more than propane prices and the cost of a propane tank refill. Some companies also offer many special deals and programs. Thrifty Propane is one such company, and they offer pre-buy specials, which can be a great way to save hundreds off your yearly propane bill. If you buy a large amount of propane during the hot summer months, the price is much lower than it will be during the winter, so pre-buying makes a lot of sense.




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