A complete guide to residential propane tank sizes

Residential propane tanks typically range in size from 59 to 1,000 gallons, with most homes using a 59-, 124-, 250-, or 500-gallon tank depending on heating needs, appliance usage, and seasonal demand. Choosing the right tank size should be based on your highest-use months so you have enough heating fuel for winter, when propane consumption increases and delivery schedules can be impacted by weather and demand.

This guide breaks down common residential propane tank sizes, how they’re used, and how to choose the best option for your home so you can stay comfortable and avoid running low during colder months.

When selecting a propane tank, it’s important to think beyond your home’s basic square footage. Consider how your household uses propane throughout the year, especially during winter.

Home Heating Needs

If propane is your primary heat source, tank size plays a major role in maintaining consistent indoor temperatures. Larger homes, homes with older insulation, or properties in the Mid-Atlantic that experience prolonged cold spells often benefit from greater storage capacity to support heating demands throughout the winter.
If you need a better understanding of how much propane you’ll need to keep your home heating appliances running, use our Propane Needs Calculator to estimate monthly usage.

Appliance Usage

Every propane-powered appliance draws from the same tank. Water heaters, stoves, dryers, fireplace inserts, pool heaters, and backup generators all contribute to overall usage. Homes with multiple high-demand appliances like these typically require a larger tank to maintain steady performance and reduce refill frequency.

Seasonal Energy Demand & Future Needs

Household size, entertaining habits, and planning additions such as a home backup generator or outdoor kitchen, can significantly affect propane usage. Choosing a tank that accommodates both current and anticipated needs can help reduce the stress of frequent refills and the chances of running out of propane.

Planning for Winter Conditions

Cold weather increases propane consumption as heating systems run longer and more often. Many people also use their propane fireplaces more frequently as a supplemental heat source, which can have a major impact on how long a full propane tank will last.

A tank sized only for average conditions may need refilling faster than expected during cold snaps or winter storms.** Many homeowners opt for a larger tank or automatic delivery to help avoid winter run-outs (and emergency delivery calls) and maintain consistent service.

Even running low on propane during a winter storm can impact the function and efficiency of your LPG appliances. Although your home propane tank may not freeze, cold temperatures can lower tank pressure, which can impact your home’s appliances just as much as running out of propane completely.

Use our propane needs calculator to determine approximately how many gallons of propane your household will use each month. Then, use this comparison chart and detailed propane tank size breakdown by application to determine which tank size you’ll need.

*Propane tanks are not filled to 100% capacity; usable propane is typically about 80% of the tank size.

**Refill frequency depends on weather, appliance usage, and delivery scheduling.

A smaller tank size that’s popular among PepUp customers is the 59-gallon propane tank. It safely holds 47 gallons of fuel, and is normally used for cooking, possibly a propane clothes dryer, and small appliances. This propane tank size does not require a “setback,” or a minimum distance from the home, required for safety.

A 124-gallon propane tank safely holds 100 gallons of propane, and is well-suited for smaller applications such as water heaters, fireplaces, cooking appliances, or supplemental heat. This is one of the most common tank sizes on Delmarva, particularly for homes with limited propane usage, and for pole barns that need supplemental winter heating.

Many homeowners choose to install two 124-gallon tanks instead of one larger tank to gain flexibility in placement, especially on smaller lots. Tanks larger than 124 gallons must meet stricter setback requirements from buildings and property lines, which can be challenging on some coastal properties.

A two-tank setup can be connected using a dual-tank regulator system that automatically switches between tanks, helping maintain continuous propane supply during higher-use periods. This setup can also provide seasonal backup capacity, reducing the risk of unexpected run-outs and emergency refill requests.

A 250-gallon propane tank safely holds 200 gallons of propane, and is a popular choice for medium-sized homes that use propane for primary heating, hot water, cooking, and small appliances. This size offers a balance between storage capacity and installation flexibility, while supporting reliable winter heating with fewer refills than smaller tanks.

Propane tanks that hold more than 100 gallons of propane must be installed at least 10 feet from buildings, appliances (including generators), and property lines. Read more about how much room you’ll need on your property for safe placement of tanks that hold more than 100 gallons of propane.

A 500-gallon propane tank can safely hold 400 gallons of propane, and is ideal for homes that rely on propane as a primary heat source or operate several high-use propane appliances simultaneously. With greater storage capacity, this tank helps reduce refill frequency and supports consistent comfort during colder months when demand is highest.

A 1,000-gallon propane tank can be safely filled with 800 gallons of propane. A tank this size is best suited for very large homes or properties with extensive propane use, such as multiple heating systems, backup generators, or multiple buildings. These tanks require more space and must meet larger setback requirements, but they provide long intervals between deliveries and dependable supply during peak usage periods.

While often associated with agricultural or commercial operations, 1,000-gallon tanks may also be used in residential settings with unusually high propane demand. Many property owners who need large-capacity tanks opt for underground tank placements, which helps with setback requirements and footprint.

Cold weather increases propane usage as heating systems run longer and appliances work harder. Smaller tanks can empty quickly during extended cold periods, particularly when multiple appliances are in use.

To reduce the risk of winter run-outs:

• Schedule refills before your tank reaches 30%
• Monitor propane levels more frequently during cold snaps
• Consider automatic delivery, and let PepUp manage your tank levels
• Choose a tank size that supports peak demand, not just average use

Planning ahead helps ensure reliable heat and fewer delivery concerns during the busiest time of year. Explore your propane delivery options now to plan ahead for high-demand winter months.

Routine propane tank inspections include visual checks for leaks, corrosion, and physical damage. PepUp inspects tanks at every fill and at least annually to verify regulator function, valve integrity, and overall tank condition. These checks help ensure safe, efficient operation and long-term reliability for homeowners.

Choosing the right propane tank size doesn’t have to be complicated. PepUp Energy Specialists can help evaluate your home, appliances, and seasonal usage to calculate your monthly propane needs and recommend a tank size that works for you. If you’re unsure whether your current setup is adequate for your family’s winter use, our team is happy to review your options and help you plan for an upgrade.