How Long Does A Patio Heater Propane Tank Last?

Propane-powered patio heaters come with many benefits. These include low maintenance, improved safety features, and increased portability.

Thanks to patio heaters powered by propane tanks, we can spend quality time with friends and family in the backyard.

They act as an extension of our property and allow us to spend more time outdoors than we usually would by providing us with extra warmth.

These benefits are what drive people to buy a propane-fueled patio heater.

The fact you find yourself here would suggest you’re thinking about installing one too, or maybe already have one.

To get the best out of a propane-fueled patio heater, you need to know how long your propane tank will last and how to use it safely.

Today, in this post, we want to teach you everything you need to know.

We will look at how long a patio heater propane tank lasts, why you should use one, and how you can get the most out of each tank.

If you’re keen to learn more, be sure to stick around.

How Long Does A Patio Heater’s Propane Tank Last?

In relation to how long a patio heater’s propane tank lasts, there are a few variables that can play a part.

These include the overall size of the tank and the BTUs (British Thermal Unit) of the patio heater.

Having said that, generally speaking, most propane tanks last a similar amount of time.

The reason for this is that most patio heaters use a 20-pound propane tank that uses around 40,000 BTUs at max capacity.

A 20 lb propane tank offers approximately 4.7 gallons of fuel. With this amount of fuel, you can expect the propane tank to run on high for roughly 10 hours.

This number could be shorter or longer depending on the variables we mentioned, but this is a pretty solid guideline to follow if you want an accurate estimation of how long you can run your patio heater.

With this amount of power being offered from the tank, you will be able to effectively run your patio heater for anything from 9 to 15 hours.

This should be more than enough power to keep you warm for a couple of evenings.

Why You Should Use A Patio Heater With A Propane Tank?

There is a wide range of different fuel sources available when it comes to fueling a patio heater.

The most popular of these are electric heaters and propane. The main reason propane tanks are such a popular choice is simply because of the extra benefits they deliver when compared to other sources.

For starters, propane tanks are easier to set up and require much less maintenance.

This allows people to quickly set up their heater and not worry too much about regularly checking it, giving you more time to focus on relaxing next to the heater instead.

You also have a choice of different propane tank styles. Propane tanks can be found in both permanent and portable styles.

This gives users the chance to choose the style that suits them. With the portable tanks, you should also be able to easily make them fit inside the base of the tank, making things much more convenient.

Aside from also coming with improved safety features, propane gas tanks are also non-toxic.

This means you can use the tank without having to worry about being exposed to harmful toxins.

How Much Does It Cost To Power Your Patio Heater Using A Propane Tank?

Typically, it will cost you about $15 to refill or exchange your patio heater's propane tank.

Obviously, this figure is dependent on the cost of propane gas at the time.

When we take a closer look at this cost, it can be calculated that, on average, it costs Americans about $1.5, give or take, for every hour they use their propane-fueled patio heater.

This may seem like quite a lot, but when compared to other sources of fuel, propane tanks are much cheaper. In fact, powering your patio heater with a propane tank is one of the best cost-effective options available.

The fact they can also work in light rain is another bonus.

How To Store Your Propane Tanks Safely

Seen as though a propane tank only lasts for approximately 10 hours, it isn’t uncommon for patio heater owners to purchase multiple propane tanks at once.

While there is nothing wrong with this, there are safety procedures you will want to take to ensure the tanks are stored safely.

You should keep a gap of at least 20 feet between the patio heater and your spare propane tanks.

This will guarantee that the other propane tanks that aren’t being used won’t be subject to the harsh heat from the patio heater. This will massively reduce the risk of fires or explosions.

It is also a good idea to store the spare tanks away in a place where they won’t be exposed to harsh weather. Good storage spaces are inside a garage or shed.

By doing these two simple things, you can keep plenty of spare propane tanks ready for when you need to replace an empty tank.

How To Get The Most Out Of Each Propane Tank?

Knowing how to get the most out of your propane tank is a good way to save some extra money and make each tank last that little bit longer.

Below you will find the most important things to know.

Tank Weight

You won’t be surprised to discover that a bigger propane tank that is at full capacity will last longer than a smaller tank.

Even when you use a standard 20 lb propane tank, you should ensure it is full if you want to keep your heater running for a few more hours.

It is worth noting that a propane tank can never be filled 100% of the way. Most propane tanks can be filled up to 80% full.

You can check if a tank is full by simply checking its weight. When you refill the tank, or buy a new one, check the weight to make sure it definitely contains 20 lbs of gas.

Use The Correct Lighting Techniques

You’ll be surprised by just how much gas is wasted when lighting a patio heater.

The reason for this surprisingly comes down to the weather, not just how full the tank is.

For example, if your tank is only half full and the weather is windy and cold, it will take longer for your patio heater to get started. This will lead to an increase in propane usage.

You can avoid this by using your patio heater at the right times.

Patio Heater Condition

If your patio heater isn’t up to standard, don’t be surprised to see it get through more propane.

An example of this is when the patio heater’s mechanical components are dirty or corroded.

This will make it harder for the heater to heat up and even stay on. As a result, the heater will use a lot more propane.

You might also use more gas when using a new patio heater, as it takes time for the lines within the heater to expel air.

This will lead to more propane being needed to heat the heater. Eventually, this issue should subside.

Staying Safe When Using Your Propane-Powered Patio Heater

Staying safe when using a propane patio heater is absolutely essential.

Because propane is an extremely flammable gas, you should take care and ensure you use the heater properly, whilst also carrying out regular checks.

We’ve already discussed storing the tanks 20 feet apart, but there are other things you should do too.

You should always check for leaks before filling out a propane tank.

As you check for leaks, keep a close eye on the fittings, gas lines, and tank hoses because they tend to be the more vulnerable parts of the tank.

It is also a good idea to get the propane heater regularly serviced, especially if you can smell gas.

The smell of gas immediately signals that there is a leak somewhere.

If you do find any leaks, you must immediately turn the heater off. You might even need to call your local fire department.

Finally, propane tanks must always be stored upright.

Final Thoughts

Propane-fueled patio heaters are popular amongst homeowners who want to spend more time outside with their family and friends.

While they are an effective way to keep warm while outside, it is important to know how long the tanks last and how to use the heater safely.

Hopefully, now that you've been through this post, you have a much clearer idea of what to expect and how to correctly use a propane tank to power a patio heater.

By following the correct procedures and knowing what to expect, you will be able to sit back and relax with friends and family all evening, even during the cold winter months.