What Size Propane Tank For Patio Heater

Patio heaters are a great way to extend your outdoor season and enjoy your patio even on cooler evenings. But before you can fire up your heater, you need to choose the right size propane tank. The size of the tank you need will depend on the size of your heater and how long you plan to use it.

Patio heater BTU output

The first thing you need to consider when choosing a propane tank is the BTU output of your patio heater. BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, and it measures the amount of heat that the heater can produce. The higher the BTU output, the more heat the heater will produce. A 10,000 BTU heater will produce enough heat to warm a small patio, while a 20,000 BTU heater will produce enough heat to warm a large patio.

Length of use

Once you know the BTU output of your heater, you need to consider how long you plan to use it. If you only plan to use the heater for a few hours at a time, you can get away with a smaller tank. But if you plan to use the heater for several hours at a time, or if you plan to use it frequently, you will need a larger tank.

Propane tank sizes

Propane tanks come in a variety of sizes, from small 1-pound tanks to large 100-pound tanks. The most common size for patio heaters is a 20-pound tank. A 20-pound tank will provide approximately 10 hours of burn time on a 10,000 BTU heater. If you have a larger heater, or if you plan to use the heater for longer periods of time, you may need a larger tank.

Safety tips

When using a propane tank, it is important to follow these safety tips:

Always store propane tanks upright.
Never store propane tanks in a closed space.
Never use a propane tank that is damaged or leaking.
If you smell gas, turn off the propane tank and call your local fire department.

By following these safety tips, you can help to ensure that you and your family stay safe while enjoying your patio heater.