Forum Discussion

TNGW1500SE's avatar
TNGW1500SE
Explorer
May 31, 2018

How long will propane last?

I have an 18 gallon tank that's filled now. We only use it for the water heater and we turn that off during the day. We heat water for 2 showers each morning and then turn it on once again a night to wash dishes. The water heater is gas only. How many days can I expect a tank of gas to last? I've never stayed this long before and have always just filled the tank before each trip.
Seeking Advice
  • the_bear_II's avatar
    the_bear_II
    Explorer
    May 31, 2018
    We leave our water heater and refrigerator on propane when boondocking 24/7 and our propane lasts for several weeks. Two standard sized tanks.
  • TNGW1500SE's avatar
    TNGW1500SE
    Explorer
    May 31, 2018
    SoundGuy wrote:
    TNGW1500SE wrote:
    I have an 18 gallon tank that's filled now.


    Seriously? At 4.2 lbs per gallon that would be ~ 75 lbs ... you sure? Heck, I have two 20 lb tanks on my Coachmen, use propane freely for anything that may be needed, and may only refill one of those tanks during the course of the camping season. And you have 75 lbs?!! :h


    The tank says "18 gal" right on the label.
  • Old-Biscuit's avatar
    Old-Biscuit
    Explorer III
    May 31, 2018
    Your Class A propane tank with 18 gallons will last this whole camping season

    Water heater at most uses a 12,000btu/hr burner which you are only burning propane for 20 minutes 3X a day........roughly 12,000btu
    Gallon of propane has 91,600btu....would take you 7 days to use 1 gallon (if only using water heater)

    You have many many days of propane use
  • TNGW1500SE's avatar
    TNGW1500SE
    Explorer
    May 31, 2018
    RoyF wrote:
    Only a rough guess, but I think at least a month, maybe more. But why not use the electric water heater if you are plugged in?


    It's gas only :(
  • RoyF's avatar
    RoyF
    Explorer
    May 31, 2018
    Only a rough guess, but I think at least a month, maybe more. But why not use the electric water heater if you are plugged in?
  • downtheroad's avatar
    downtheroad
    Explorer
    May 31, 2018
    ....With the way you are using propane....you are going to be a lot older by the time you run out.
  • SoundGuy's avatar
    SoundGuy
    Explorer
    May 31, 2018
    TNGW1500SE wrote:
    I have an 18 gallon tank that's filled now.


    Seriously? At 4.2 lbs per gallon that would be ~ 75 lbs ... you sure? Heck, I have two 20 lb tanks on my Coachmen, use propane freely for anything that may be needed, and may only refill one of those tanks during the course of the camping season. And you have 75 lbs?!! :h
  • Lwiddis's avatar
    Lwiddis
    Explorer II
    May 31, 2018
    Six weeks or more with your use. This is why I like double tanks. Use one, the other is full, switch over and start looking for a refill.

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,111 PostsLatest Activity: Feb 16, 2025