Posted: September 25, 2023

Setting up and running a business is more than a full time job. At times, it most likely seems and feels like there is an endless list of things to do and figure out.

Depending on the type of business that you are running, one of the things that needs to be figured out is what propane tank size is right for your specific commercial needs.

Propane Tank Sizes

Propane tanks come in a variety of sizes. They can weigh as little as 20 pounds and they can also hold over 2,000 gallons of propane. The size that you need depends on how much propane your business uses on a regular basis as well as where your business is located. For example, if your business is in a cold climate you may need a larger tank if you’re using propane for heating purposes.

It is important to remember that a 500-gallon propane tank, for example, doesn’t hold 500 gallons of propane. Tanks can only be 80% full at a time.

Here is a breakdown of some common commercial propane tank sizes:

• 33-pound propane tanks: Tanks of this size are often used to power forklifts. They can hold approximately 7.8 gallons or propane at a time.
• 57-gallon to 100-pound propane tanks: These are suggested when a business only needs to run one to two smaller appliances with propane.
• 120-gallon propane tanks: Smaller tanks of this size can be used for commercial cooking, heating a small square footage of space and for drying clothes. They hold 96 gallons of propane at their fullest.
• 250-gallon propane tanks: These tanks can power generators, heat pools, help provide supplemental heat and heat water. When full, they hold 200 gallons of propane.
• 500-gallon propane tanks: Tanks of this size are typically used for commercial cooking, temporary heating solutions and agricultural appliances. They can be filled with 400 gallons of propane.
• 1,000-gallon propane tanks: A large tank like this is commonly used for large commercial appliances, heating and to fuel fleets of vehicles. They hold 800 gallons of propane when full.

Storing Propane Tanks

Once you determine exactly what size propane tank your business needs, you will, of course, need a place to store these propane tanks.

Propane tanks can be stored both inside and outside. If you’re storing them indoors keep them near a fire extinguisher and make sure they are not blocking any staircases or exits as this is a safety concern and could be an issue if employees are trying to evacuate in an emergency.

For added safety, find an area outdoors for storage that is far away from any potential ignition sources such as combustible materials. Be sure to keep tanks out of high temperatures and extreme heat.

Allied Propane Has Your Tank Size

Allied Propane’s selection of propane tank sizes is vast – we have BBQ-size to 1,990-gallon tanks on hand. If we don’t have what you’re looking for, just ask and we will be happy to provide you with a custom size that fits your specific needs.

Contact us today to learn more about the propane tanks we have in stock as well as the commercial propane services we provide within the Northern California Bay Area!