There are many propane tank sizes available for a home or business. Custom configurations are possible by coupling several tanks together, depending on your situation.

For example, if you want the tank to be against the building (to avoid trenching and burying the propane lines from the building to the tank), then you need to have a 120-gallon propane tank or smaller.

If you need a lot of propane, you could have several of these placed beside each other. Four of these 120-gallon tanks provide the same amount as a 500-gallon tank.

So, what are the best scenarios to use three of the most common tank sizes - the 120, 500, and 1000-gallon tanks?

If you are interested in a wider variety of sizes, view our blog post on choosing the right propane tank size.

Let’s take a look!

120 Gallon Propane Tank

A quality 120-gallon propane tank has several advantages over larger tanks:

They are the largest propane tank legally allowed against a building (provided they are at least 5 feet from a building vent and at least 10 feet from a source of ignition).
Being installed alongside a building avoids trenching and related costs.

The problem is these tanks are not very large, and when servicing the average home or business, you probably need more than one tank. While multiple tanks work well, it does drive up the cost quickly compared to purchasing a single larger tank.

Smaller homes, such as single or double-wide trailers, usually do well with only one 120-gallon tank.

500 Gallon Propane Tank

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), propane tanks over 120 gallons need to be a minimum of 10 feet from the building. Therefore, you need trenching to install a 500-gallon propane tank and the connecting lines.

500-gallon propane tanks work well for medium-sized homes with propane appliances, such as ovens, water heaters, or central heaters.

These tanks also work for small businesses if the business is only running a water heater and central heater for small office spaces (1500-2000 square feet).

1000 Gallon Propane Tank

The NFPA requires tanks over 500 gallons to be installed a minimum of 25’ from the building for above-ground installations, 10 feet minimum for underground tank installations, and 10’ minimum from a property line.

Knowing these required dimensions is important if your business or home has limited space.

These large tanks work well for large homes or large businesses or farms. Depending on your business’s size, you may need to have several larger tanks installed and connected.

If you aren’t sure which setup is right for you and you are looking for a propane tank installer in Southeast PA, contact the team at Affordable Tank Services - we would love to help you in the process!

See the specifications for both above and underground installations from the NFPA below:

Hiring The Right Installer

As we mentioned previously, part of owning your propane tank is having a certified propane contractor install it for you and take care of connecting all the lines and fittings.

Because propane (LP gas) is explosive and dangerous, codes don't allow “just any contractor” to install and connect your new tank and lines.

As you look for a local propane tank installer, keep the following checklist in mind.

1 - Are they insured?

Because working with propane is dangerous, and because fire and other accidents can occur if something is installed incorrectly, make sure the contractor is fully insured if something goes wrong.

Thankfully, these accidents rarely happen if the installers are properly trained, but it is still a possibility.

2 - Are they licensed and certified?

Each state has different requirements to be a licensed installer in their state. For example, Pennsylvania’s requirements for propane and liquified petroleum gas requirements are here.

Your installer needs to be state-certified! Make sure they have passed all the training and regulations necessary for a safe propane tank installation.

3 - What is their warranty?

New tanks and equipment usually come with a manufacturer’s warranty, but what workmanship or labor warranty does your installer provide?

Again, most of the time, nothing goes wrong. But mistakes do happen, and your contractor should be willing to correct any mistakes they make.

4 - Do they have good customer service?

Many people own their tank to choose a propane provider with good pricing and great customer service, so don’t choose a contractor with poor customer service!

If something should go wrong, you want to be working with a company that stands by its word and its work.

5 - Is the contract clear and specific?

When reviewing the proposal and quote, make sure everything is clear, specific, and easy to understand.

For example, if trenching is required, does the contractor take care of repairing the yard and driveway after trenching, or is this something you need to do?

Or, if you have an underground propane tank, is the contractor responsible for getting rid of the excess dirt, or are you?

Having these things clearly laid out in the proposal keeps you and the contractor on the same page during your installation.

Conclusion

By now, you should have a good idea of knowing whether you should own a propane tank at your home or business. You should have an idea of which size is the best fit for you and several questions you want to ask a contractor before hiring them.

Remember - you can experience the freedom to find the best propane pricing in your area and not be tied down to a propane contract with its fees, penalties, and poor customer service!

If you are ready to work with a local propane tank installer in Southeast PA, contact the team at Affordable Tank Services today by calling 717-548-3926. We offer a variety of tanks for sale and ongoing propane tank services as well. If you are uncertain which tank size or configuration is best for your home or business, we also provide free estimates and advice for your situation.

Experience the freedom of finding the best propane pricing and customer service in your area by having Affordable Tank Services install your complete propane setup. Call us today at 717-548-3926!

Is Propane Cheaper if You Buy Your Own Tank?

Around 5 million American households use propane as their main heating source, and many others use propane to meet some of their energy requirements.

You’ve finally decided to start taking advantage of the benefits of using propane in your Long Island home. Is propane cheaper if you buy the tank? Or is renting a tank the better option?

Find out the costs of owning a tank compared to renting one. You can make an informed decision and get the best value from your propane tank.

Is Propane Cheaper if You Own Your Own Tank?

Owning your propane tank can save you money in many ways.

Reduced price for propane: Many propane suppliers will give you a better price on propane if you own your tank.
No monthly or yearly rental payments: You’ll have the upfront cost of the tank and installation, but you won’t have monthly or yearly rental payments.
No contract needed: You don’t need to agree to a contract with minimum consumption rates and fees.

Compare pricing options for tanks: You can choose a tank from any manufacturer. The price can vary somewhat by manufacturer, so you may be able to save some money by comparing your options. You can also choose a used tank, which will be a cheaper upfront cost than buying new.

Costs of Owning a Propane Tank

Propane tank ownership has some potential downsides..

Buying a propane tank is an expensive investment.

The cost of the tank will vary depending on the size of the tank, but you could spend several thousand dollars. You’ll need to pay for permits as well as installation costs like trenching, piping, and fittings.

You’re responsible for service and maintenance charges.

Owning your propane tank means that you’re responsible for service and maintenance charges. All propane tanks need regular maintenance. For example, you’ll need to replace the pressure regulator periodically according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Maintenance is especially important for underground tanks. You need to check the anode bags every two years. The anode bags keep the tank from rotting.

Advantages of Renting a Propane Tank

The supplier will maintain your tank

Renting a propane tank has benefits depending on your circumstances. One big advantage of leasing a propane tank is that the propane supplier will install and maintain it. You’re not responsible for those costs.

The supplier is responsible for repairs and replacement

Your supplier will repair or replace the tank if any problems occur. The supplier will perform regular testing. They’ll keep the tank certified and compliant with safety regulations.

Flexibility when you move

If you sell your property, you can transfer the propane lease to the buyer. You can also have the propane supplier remove the tank if the new owner doesn’t want it. You don’t have the expense of taking the tank with you when you move or trying to sell it.

Costs of a Propane Tank Lease

Renting a propane tank has some downsides. When you lease a propane tank, you can only buy propane from the supplier who owns the tank. You’re stuck with the rate they give you. For this reason, it’s important to do business with a trustworthy company.

You’re stuck with the supplier

This is not necessarily a bad thing if you find the right company. It’s important to find a trustworthy company that provides both good customer service and fair prices on propane. If you want to change suppliers, you often have to pay a termination fee. You’ll also have delays waiting for your current supplier to remove the tank.

Minimum charges

You frequently have a minimum usage rate as part of your lease agreement. This minimum yearly purchase requirement could be a minimum number of appliances running on propane or a total BTU load.

Rental payments

When you rent a propane tank, it’s a given that you have to pay rent. In addition, the cost of propane may be higher than if you own your tank. The rental company is getting back the cost of installing and maintaining your tank through the price they charge you for propane.

Buying vs Renting a Propane Tank

From a cost perspective, choosing to buy or rent your propane tank depends on your situation.

Buying a tank is a large investment.

The lifespan of a propane tank can be over 30 years, so you’ll be using it for decades.

For some homeowners who don’t mind shopping around, being able to find the propane supplier with the lowest-priced fuel is worth the time and expense of owning a tank.

Most suppliers won’t lease an underground tank

If you want an underground propane tank, you may have to buy it. Most suppliers won’t lease an underground tank.

Renting is better for tank maintenance

You may prefer renting if you don’t want to handle all of the maintenance and service responsibilities that come with propane tank ownership.

Whether you choose to buy or rent, you’ll be taking advantage of the efficiency and consistency of propane.

Do you live on Long Island? Save up to 30% on propane with Propane Depot

When you’re deciding whether to buy or rent your propane tank, a propane supply expert can help you evaluate your options. The experienced professionals at Propane Depot will work with you to find the best solution for your propane needs.

Click here to request a quote or call us at 631-400-SAVE

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