Propane level monitor

I've given up on gauges and gimmicks, I just install two full tanks and keep the valve on one tank closed. After the first tank runs out, I run out of propane inside the trailer. I go outside and switch to the other tank and replace the empty tank ASAP.

I use the manual lift test. I loosen the hold-down nut and lift each tank an inch or so. I can tell by weight about how much is left. This is part of my routine when I go out at bedtime and put the Ponderosa to bed.

This works for me cause I know from experience what the weight of full and empty tanks feel like.

(I do have the automatic switch-over valve).

I've been looking for an excuse to buy one of those IR thermometers and reading the propane level is another good reason.

I tried an IR thermometer yesterday. The bottom of one tank read 63 and changed halfway to 66. The gauge on it read about 1/2, so that seems to work. The other tank read full and the temp showed 63 bottom to top. Only pain is removing the cover every time. Better than removing and weighing, though.

I have a feeling this isn't going to work but, I'll try it out .

Interesting..I'm curious also because you can definitely tell the difference just using your hand, after putting hot water on it. That method is very accurate in telling how much propane is left in the tank.

marquette wrote:
Would a IR thermometer read the temp difference between where there is propane and empty better than the stick on temp strip?

That's a good question. I have a cheap thermometer gun. I wonder if that would work. Maybe I would have to dump hot water over the tank first to get enough of a difference? I have a feeling this isn't going to work but, I'll try it out .

now if they only made reliable black water tank monitors... ;)

Would a IR thermometer read the temp difference between where there is propane and empty better than the stick on temp strip?

I have the gauges that go between tank and hose. They work well and I can see about how much is in a tank by just taking the hatch off the cover. I also use the automatic switchover and replace the empty as soon as possible. Haven't run out of gas yet.

dometic makes one the size of a large pen. Has a rubberized tip on it that you place perpendicular to the tank. You push it in and if it runs red there is no propane at that area. Move it lower and try again, if it turns green you have propane at that level. Works great and I can use it on my propane grill at home. My parents bought 2 at an RV show in FL for $10 each. I know they were mismarked because everyplace else I see them they are $45 or so. Thats why they bought 2, it works great but at $45 I'm not sure I would have had them buy me one.