Propane Tank FAQ’s
Proulx Owned Tank
Maintained by Proulx and all costs for maintenance & repairs are covered including piping, fittings & regulator.
Regularly tested, certified, and kept within compliance.
The tank is free to use as long as the homeowner buys a minimum amount of propane each year, based on the tank size. If not, a Minimum Usage Fee will be incurred.
When moving, the propane service gets passed onto the new homeowner.
Underground tanks use an Anode Bag which protects the tank from deteriorating. These must be checked, replaced as needed and documentation of the test kept on file.
Propane must be purchased from Proulx, another propane supplier cannot deliver to another supplier’s tank.
Customer Owned Tank
The owner is responsible for the purchase price of a propane tank and all required piping from the tank to the house, all regulators, fittings, and other installation-related parts.
Must be regularly tested and kept in compliance.
The purchase price of a tank is based on current market conditions and is paid up front.
There are limited warranties on tanks that should be read and understood before purchasing.
Customers can purchase propane from whichever propane company they choose.
The propane tank can be included as part of your home’s sale if you move.
Known as the 80% fill rule, it’s a preventative safety measure against the propane expansion fluctuations inside the tank. Propane can increase in volume almost 17 times over water at the same temperature increase. Filling the propane container to only 80% capacity allows for this expansion.
What Size Propane Tank Do I Need?
Choosing the right propane tank depends on your home’s size, the appliances you use, and how much propane you typically consume. Proulx Oil & Propane can help determine the best tank size for your needs.
There are two main types of propane tanks:
Above-Ground Propane Tanks
Above-ground tanks are the most common choice for homeowners. They are durable, designed to withstand New England weather, and available in several sizes to meet different household propane needs.
Underground Propane Tanks
Underground propane tanks offer the same reliable performance while remaining mostly hidden from view. They are coated with a protective material that helps prevent corrosion and are an excellent option for homeowners who prefer to preserve their landscaping or maintain a more discreet appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does a 500-gallon propane tank hold 500 gallons?
No. For safety, propane tanks are only filled to approximately 80% of their rated capacity to allow for fuel expansion during temperature changes.
What is the difference between an above-ground and underground propane tank?
Both provide the same reliable propane supply. Underground tanks are installed below grade and are designed to blend into the landscape, while above-ground tanks are easier to install and maintain.
How do I know what size propane tank I need?
The right size depends on your home’s heating load, the number of propane appliances you use, and your expected annual propane consumption. Our team can recommend the appropriate tank for your home.
Propane Tank Sizes: What Size Propane Tank Do I Need?
Choosing the right propane tank depends on how you use propane in your home. Whether you’re heating your entire home or just powering a fireplace or cooktop, we can recommend the right tank for your needs.
57-Gallon Propane Tank
Best for: Single appliances such as ovens, ranges and clothes dryers.
A 57-gallon propane tank is ideal when propane is used for one or two appliances rather than whole-home heating.
120-Gallon Propane Tank
Best for: Smaller demand or a limited number of propane appliances.
A 120-gallon tank is commonly used when propane powers a water heater, fireplace, cooktop, or other small-demand appliances. These tanks also offer more flexible placement requirements than larger tanks.
250-Gallon Propane Tank
Best for: Mid side BTU demands. Capable of whole house heating use depending on the square footage and number of occupants.
A 250-gallon (2 -120 gallon tanks together) tank can often provide whole-home heating for smaller homes, depending on the home’s size, insulation, and propane usage. These tanks are available for above-ground installation.
500-Gallon Propane Tank
Best for: Most homes that heat with propane.
A 500-gallon tank is the most common residential propane tank. It can supply propane for whole-home heating, water heating, cooking, fireplaces, clothes dryers, generators, and other propane appliances. These tanks are available in both above-ground and underground installations and must meet required safety clearances.
1,000-Gallon Propane Tank
Best for: Large homes, commercial buildings, farms, and high-demand applications.
A 1,000-gallon tank provides a larger propane reserve for homes or businesses with significant propane usage. These tanks are commonly used for commercial applications and larger residential properties and must meet required installation clearances.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the most common propane tank size for a home?
A 500-gallon propane tank is the most common size for homes that use propane for central heating and multiple appliances.
Can Proulx help me choose the right propane tank?
Yes. We’ll recommend the proper tank size based on your home’s square footage, propane appliances, and estimated annual fuel usage.
Can I choose an underground propane tank?
Yes. Many homeowners choose underground propane tanks to preserve landscaping and improve curb appeal. Proulx installs both above-ground and underground propane tanks.
