Forum Discussion

beelbill's avatar
beelbill
Explorer
Apr 05, 2015

External Propane Tanks and Cylinders

I am a new full-timer and am trying to find out how to have an adequate supply of propane to heat the 5th wheel without having to run to have the 30 lb tanks filled every few days. I installed an extend-a-stay valve on our system and thought it would be easy. I called the local propane guy to bring me a 250 gallon tank and he said no. He would not set up or fill a tank that wasn't permanently connected to a structure.

So, I am looking at setting up a couple 100 lb tanks and having to haul them in to the dealer to have them filled. But, I can't find any kind of bracket for safely anchoring them beside the camper or for transporting them in the truck to the dealer.

How do any of you full-timers keep supplied in propane?
  • SDcampowneroper's avatar
    SDcampowneroper
    Explorer
    Apr 06, 2015
    Check your local fire codes for placement of larger capacity propane tanks.
    In our city, the propane co. can't set a tank thats less than 10' from structure and must be hard piped. No hose.
    Out of town, its a different story.
    NFPA 1194 guidelines cover rules most AHJs folllow, however some are more restrictive. Then,maybe it could be you just need to look for another supplier.
  • robsouth's avatar
    robsouth
    Explorer II
    Apr 06, 2015
    Most LP dealers will gladly set you up with a tank and keep it full for you. I think the guy you talked to did not want the business, or perhaps some sort of local ordinance?
  • Oasisbob's avatar
    Oasisbob
    Explorer
    Apr 06, 2015
    When I was full timing in my fiver I leased a fifty gallon from a propane company that came by every other week. Never came close to running low. You will learn your consumption rate in a month or so and it will all make sense. Even if I drained one twenty pounder I would simply go out and switch over from the one to another.
  • Dog_Folks's avatar
    Dog_Folks
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2015
    jandjbaums wrote:
    I would call another co. to see if they wanted the business. Sounds like this co. didnt want the hassle to do 100# tanks. This seems to be the going thing in sparsly populated areas. You might have to haul your 30# tanks to get them filled. Sad but nobody wants to work for business anymore.


    What jandjbaums said above.
  • jandjbaums's avatar
    jandjbaums
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2015
    I would call another co. to see if they wanted the business. Sounds like this co. didnt want the hassle to do 100# tanks. This seems to be the going thing in sparsly populated areas. You might have to haul your 30# tanks to get them filled. Sad but nobody wants to work for business anymore.

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