How Can I Tell What Size Propane Tank I Have?

Consumer liquid-propane tanks are used for gas grills, propane heaters and in campers or recreational vehicles for both cooking and heat. Residential propane tanks are large storage containers on a property and filled on site by a propane service. The liquid propane in these tanks heats your water, cooks your food and heats your home. A few measurements can tell you what size of propane tank you have.

Step 1

Measure the diameter of the tank.

Step 2

Measure the overall height of your propane tank. Include the base and the metal collar protecting the propane tank valve.

Step 3

Compare your measurements to the known measurements for consumer propane tanks to determine the size of tank you have. According to the Propane 101 website, a 20-pound propane tank measures 18 inches high and 12.5 inches in diameter. A 30-pound propane tank measures 24 inches high and 12.5 inches in diameter. A 40-pound propane tank measures 29 inches high and 12.5 inches in diameter. A 100-pound propane tank measures 48 inches high and 14.5 inches in diameter.

Step 1

Measure the diameter of your tank.

Step 2

Measure the length of your propane tank from end to end.

Step 3

Measure the actual height of your tank without including the stand or base.

Step 4

Compare your measurements to standards of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), available on the Mission Gas Co. website. A 250-gallon tank measures 30 to 31.5 inches in diameter, 86 1/2 to 94 inches in length and 38 to 39 1/4 inches in height. A 500-gallon tank measures 37 to 37.5 inches in diameter, 118 to 120 inches in length and 45 to 46 1/3 inches in height. A 1,000-gallon tank measures 41 inches in diameter, 190 to 192 inches in length and 49 to 50 1/2 inches in height.