Free plain-English tool
How Long Will a Propane Tank Last?
Estimate how long a propane tank may last based on tank size, fuel level, appliance BTU use, and hours used per day.
This calculator gives a rough planning estimate for propane use. It uses a common approximation of about 21,548 BTU per pound of propane. Real results vary with temperature, regulator performance, appliance condition, wind, burner settings, and how full the tank really is.
Safety note: This tool is not gas-safety advice. Follow appliance instructions, local rules, and qualified propane or gas-service guidance.
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Estimate propane duration
Estimated run time
0hours of burn time
0days at your daily use
0usable propane pounds
How to use the result
The estimate is best for planning whether you likely need a spare tank, refill, or more conservative fuel plan. It should not be used for safety-critical heating, commercial operations, or medical/equipment support needs.
| Input | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Tank size | Most barbecue-style tanks are labelled by propane capacity, often 20 lb. |
| Fuel level | A tank that feels “partly full” can be hard to judge without weighing it. |
| BTU per hour | Higher BTU settings consume fuel faster. |