How Big Does My Home Propane Tank Size Need To Be?

August 7, 2023

image of a home propane tank depicting home propane tank sizes

One of the best fuels for home heating is propane. It is an efficient source of energy, helping homeowners save money and lower their environmental impact. Natural gas is delivered to a home through supply lines, while propane is stored locally in a tank that is located on the property. There are no fuel interruptions as long as homeowners are mindful of their propane tank levels. Having the right tank size is also an important consideration. But how do you choose the right propane tank sizes to meet your needs?

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How Big Does My Home Propane Tank Size Need To Be?

Contents

1 How Big Does My Home Propane Tank Size Need To Be?
2 Why Do You Need to Find the Right Propane Tank Size?
3 What Do Home Propane Tank Sizes Refer To?
4 What are the Common Propane Tank Sizes Available?
- 4.1 Conclusion
5 Call Columbus Energies For Superior Propane Delivery Services

This article discusses several factors to consider when choosing a residential propane tank for your heating needs.

Size of the Home

image of a home that uses propane for home heating and appliances

If your home primarily uses propane for heating, the size of your home is one of the most crucial considerations. For instance, you typically need a 500-gallon tank if your home has a floor area of 2,500 square feet. The tank should be twice as large if the floor area is doubled.

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Number of Propane-dependent Appliances

The initial estimate is primarily focused on heating requirements. If your home has other appliances that rely on propane, like the water heater, fireplace, stove, and clothes dryer, your fuel needs will rise. Consider all appliances that are powered by propane and adjust accordingly.

Related Article: Questions To Ask When Choosing A Propane Company

Size of the Family

image of a family that uses propane for energy use

A large family utilizes propane-fueled appliances more than a small family. Daily fuel needs will vary. For instance, you should consider how often people cook meals, wash their hands, and take showers.

Space Availability

Propane tanks are installed within the property, so homeowners must determine how much space is available. If you own an expansive yard, you should be able to fit a larger horizontal propane tank. On the other hand, small yards may need to install a vertical propane tank. Consult a reliable propane provider to learn more about your options.

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Location of the Home

image of a snow-covered house that uses propane

The propane needs also depend on the region’s climate. Some places experience harsher winters than others. Homeowners should also consider how close their house is to the propane supplier. If the deliveries are coming from far away, you won’t know how long it would take to deliver more propane during bad weather. This situation calls for a larger tank that can last longer.

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Why Do You Need to Find the Right Propane Tank Size?

Here are several reasons it is important to find the most fitting propane tank size for your home:

Avoiding Frequent Propane Deliveries

image of a columbus energy propane delivery

The propane will run out quickly if the tank is too small for the home. Propane deliveries will need to occur more often. This can be difficult and inconvenient when the weather gets bad. You can prevent this issue from happening with the right propane tank size.

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Minimizing Upfront Propane Fuel Costs

image of scissors cutting costs depicting propane fuel costs

Some homeowners may think that getting the biggest tank available prevents needing frequent propane refills. However, this isn’t always a practical move. Large tanks will require big spaces for storage. They will also need a substantial initial price to buy and install the tank. However, a larger propane tank can help you take advantage of minimizing propane expenses, as you can buy the fuel in bulk.

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Considering Safety Regulations

Propane is relatively safe. However, local governments are still cautious about tank installation. As a result, stricter regulations are in place for bigger tanks than smaller ones. Consider the feasibility of the tank installation with these rules in mind.

What Do Home Propane Tank Sizes Refer To?

Tank sizes can be described in two ways. One is the liquid volume in gallons of fuel inside the tank. The other is the tanks’ weight in pounds when they are full. In each case, the tank can only be filled up to 80% of its capacity, as the other 20% is left as a safety buffer for expansion.

What are the Common Propane Tank Sizes Available?

Here are the top propane tank sizes available:

1LB Tank: This tank size is usually utilized for portable grills and camping stoves. They can be easily found in supermarkets and hardware stores.
20LB/5Gallon Tank: This size is a good match for large BBQ grills. You can refill them at gas stations.
33LB/8Gallon Tank: This tank size is enough to power forklifts, farm vehicles, and other demanding applications for a few hours. However, they are typically insufficient to use for home heating.
100LB/25Gallon Tank: This size is enough to heat small homes and, at times, power several propane-fueled appliances. Frequent use can result in this tank size running out quickly.
200LB/57Gallon Tank: This tank size provides a good fuel amount for small homes with significant propane needs. It lets you enjoy constant use with fewer worries.
420LB/100Gallon Tank: This tank size can do more like warming up a swimming pool and keeping a fireplace lit for long periods.
500Gallon Tank: This tank size is the most commonly used one for residential heating, cooking, showering, and other use. Its contents should last longer, but this also means the tank is bigger. These tanks require a 10-foot clearance on their perimeter to ensure safety.
1,000Gallon Tank: Large homes may find a 500-gallon tank insufficient for their needs. Therefore, they can install a 1,000-gallon tank instead to fulfill the massive structure’s needs.

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Conclusion

You should be careful when selecting a propane tank size. What you choose will affect the installation cost and how reliable your home heating will be. Consider the needs of your home, including the number of family members and appliances. You should also consider the size and location of your home. Look for a tank size that will meet all your needs so you can use it for a long time. Consult a reputable and reliable propane provider near you to find the most suitable propane tank size to meet your needs.

Call Columbus Energies For Superior Propane Delivery Services

Contact Columbus Energies when you require superior propane delivery service in {Service Area}. We provide top- quality fuel deliveries that are swift, friendly, and affordable.

Rely on us to provide you with unbeatable service at all times. Call today to learn about our company’s various delivery plans and financing options.

We also offer a full line of HVAC services to improve your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality. These include heating and cooling maintenance, replacements, repairs, and more. Call Columbus Energies today!

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HVAC expert checking home central AC unit

Seven HVAC Tips For A Smooth Transition From Winter To Spring

April 15, 2024

$HVAC units play a pivotal role in ensuring the comfort and safety of modern building environments. Yet, these indispensable systems are not immune to the challenges of power surges. Such surges, frequently resulting from events like lightning strikes, power outages, or fluctuations in the electrical grid, can unleash a rapid influx of electrical current. This sudden surge can inflict severe damage on vital components of the HVAC system, including the compressor, fan motor, and control board. The repercussions of such damage can range from expensive repairs to the necessity of replacing the entire HVAC unit. Given these risks, implementing surge protectors and adhering to electrical safety best practices to safeguard HVAC systems effectively is paramount. Is Your HVAC System Secured Against Power Surges? Pondering over protecting your HVAC system against power surges often indicates a need for proactive measures. Seek the expertise of a seasoned HVAC technician who is ready to evaluate and enhance your system's resilience against power surges. Their guidance and recommendations will ensure that your HVAC system is well-prepared to withstand the challenges posed by unexpected power surges and outages. Understanding Power Surges: What Are They? A power surge represents an abrupt spike in electrical voltage, surpassing the standard levels within a power supply system. These surges can manifest for various reasons, including sudden disruptions in the electrical current flow. Common triggers for these surges include events like lightning strikes, power outages, or the switching on and off of large electrical appliances, including air conditioners, refrigerators, and elevators. Power surges, often lasting merely a fraction of a second, can nonetheless wreak significant havoc on electrical devices and appliances. The surge's excessive electrical energy overburdens and damages the sensitive electronic components within these devices, potentially leading to malfunctions or total failures. Differentiating Power Surge, Power Outage, and Brownout While power surges, power outages, and brownouts all stem from electrical power supply disturbances, they each describe distinct phenomena: Power Surge: This is a brief, intense increase in electrical voltage, due to lightning strikes, outages, or high-powered equipment. A power surge can potentially damage electronic devices and appliances hence surge protectors are essential to safeguard them from potential damage. Power Outage: This event happens when there's an interruption in the electrical power supply to a location, leading to a total loss of power. Numerous factors, such as severe weather conditions and electrical equipment failure, can trigger power outages or even planned maintenance activities. Brownout: Characterized by a reduction in voltage within the electrical power supply, a brownout manifests as dimming or flickering lights and reduced power to appliances. Causes range from high demand on the power grid to equipment malfunctions or issues within the electrical system of a specific building or area. Don't let power surges damage your HVAC system. Contact Columbus Energies now for professional surge protection solutions and ensure your system's longevity and performance! HVAC Components Vulnerable to Power Surges Here are several parts affected by power surges: HVAC Control Board Often referred to as the system's "brain," the HVAC control board is critical for communication with the thermostat. A power surge can damage this component, disrupting its function. Such damage impairs the HVAC system's ability to regulate temperature effectively, leading to insufficient heating or cooling. This can result in discomfort, especially during periods of extreme temperatures. HVAC Compressor Motor This crucial part of your HVAC system, recognizable as a box with wires protruding, plays a pivotal role in refrigerant compression. It converts low-pressure, cool refrigerant into a high-pressure, heated state. The motor, integral to the compressor, is prone to power surge damage. It consists of numerous wires that transform electrical energy into kinetic energy. A surge can cause these wires to overheat, potentially leading to combustion. Furthermore, a compromised motor affects the compressor's performance, hindering its ability to function efficiently. HVAC Capacitor This essential component, typically oval-shaped, serves as a storage unit for electrical charge, crucial for powering the electrical components in your HVAC system. Vulnerable to power surges, the capacitor can sustain damage when exposed to such events. This damage may result in operational difficulties for your HVAC system. HVAC Relay Switch This switch plays a crucial role in your HVAC system, acting to turn on or off components that require high-voltage power. A key feature of most relay switches is an electrical contactor surrounded by a coil. In the event of a voltage exceeding a specific threshold, as in a power surge, the coil is likely to burn out. This can lead to a broken circuit, causing the relay switch to malfunction. Keep your HVAC system safe from power surges with Columbus Energies' comprehensive surge protection services. Reach out to us today for peace of mind and reliable protection! Preventing Power Surge Damage to Your HVAC System Power surges pose a severe risk to HVAC systems, potentially leading to expensive repairs or replacements. Listed below are several tips to protect your HVAC system from power surge damage: Install Surge Protectors: Placing surge protectors on your HVAC unit and electrical panels offers crucial defense against unexpected power surges. These devices act as a barrier, safeguarding your system. Unplug Appliances During Storms: As a precaution, disconnect your HVAC system and other appliances during thunderstorms or severe weather. This simple action can prevent potential damage from lightning-induced surges. Utilize High-Quality Wiring: Implementing top-tier wiring and components is crucial in safeguarding your HVAC system against power surge damage. For optimal safety and efficiency, it's advisable to have these elements installed by a skilled electrician. Regular HVAC Maintenance: Consistently maintaining your HVAC system is a proactive way to prevent surge-related damage. Key practices include cleaning and replacing air filters, ensuring proper refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical connections. Install a Whole-House Surge Protector: Consider a whole-house surge protector for comprehensive protection. Installed at your main electrical panel, it shields your entire home, HVAC system included, from power surges, thus securing all your appliances. Ensure your HVAC system's safety and longevity with Columbus Energies' top-notch surge protection services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your investment! HVAC Power Surge Damage & Warranty Limitations Warranties from HVAC manufacturers typically exclude coverage for power surge damage. Relying on homeowners' insurance can be complex, as proving surge-related damage is often difficult, especially when it accumulates over time. Consequently, homeowners might find themselves responsible for expensive HVAC repairs arising from incidents like lightning strikes, overloaded electrical circuits, or appliance-related issues. Conclusion HVAC systems represent a significant investment crucial for home comfort. Proactive prevention is vital to avoid incurring high costs from power surge damages. Investing in protective measures is a wise choice compared to facing the expense of repairs or replacements. Consult trusted HVAC professionals to ensure your system is well-protected and maintained. Contact Columbus Energies for All Your HVAC Needs Columbus Energies is a premier heating and cooling service provider in Southeastern Massachusetts and the Rhode Island region. Our professionally certified technicians are highly skilled in various HVAC services, including tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Rely on our expertise for accurate and efficient servicing of your system. As a highly sought-after service provider in the region, we are always prepared to meet your HVAC needs. We pride ourselves on offering the area's most affordable heating and cooling solutions. Columbus Energies is synonymous with quality service and cost-effectiveness. lightening storm and hvac surge protection$