Propane Tank Gauge...

ScottK · 08-28-2010, 07:56 AM

Looking for suggestions on a Propane Tank Gauge. Based on the reviews out there, it seems the "pressure gauges" are not accurate. The magnetic strip down the side of the tank, maybe my only real option, but with my tank cover, it would be hard to see. I tried the pouring water down the side method, and again because of the cover, it's hard to see. What do you use?

DianeScraps · 08-28-2010, 12:13 PM

We have the magnetic strip that we use when we want to check, we really don't go through all that much propane, so we really just check it occastionally

ScottK · 08-28-2010, 01:11 PM

We don't usually either. But we did hit a cold snap in out west this summer and we used the furnace a fair bit. All of a sudden, no propane! I knew one tank was empty when we left, but I thought "we don't use much propane." Well, not until you need the furnace and hot h2o heater! Anyway, that made me think, it would be nice to have a gauge of some kind.

264SRinPA · 08-28-2010, 05:40 PM

You said you have 2 tanks. When one is empty, switch to the other one and get the empty tank refilled.

ScottK · 08-28-2010, 11:24 PM

I know - thanks. I would just like to know what is out there and what works in terms of reliable gauges.

nasa42a · 08-29-2010, 06:46 AM

Scott.......

Curiosity leads me to ask. What were the sources of info on the unreliability of propane gauges...and regarding what models? I ask because I noted Wal-Mart's RV area now carries some quality-looking inline gauges which are basically heavy brass with a mounted gauge.

Frank

264SRinPA · 08-29-2010, 07:45 AM

Frank,

From what I understand, those gauges aren't accurate. Propane stays at a consistent psi whether the tank is full or close to empty. Only when the tank is empty will the gauge drop. And at that point it's to late. The psi in the tank will change with the outside temperature, but will still be the same whether full or close to empty.

http://www.ehow.com/about_5428024_pr...re-gauges.html

ScottK · 08-29-2010, 09:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 264SRinPA

Propane stays at a consistent psi whether the tank is full or close to empty. Only when the tank is empty will the gauge drop. And at that point it's to late.

And that is basically what negative reviewers of that type of product say....It tells you what & when you already know...you are out!

luvrque · 08-29-2010, 09:10 AM

These are the ones that came standard on the QUE and I find them to be Accurate........

As you can see they are used horizontal.

In the vertrical position they read different: only (ok- add- ok ) as shown on the gauge.

pwb01 · 08-29-2010, 07:06 PM

My gauge was very accurate. It read green until the second it was empty and then read empty. That served no purpose. The best thing I found is the automatic switch over. When one tank empties, it switches to the full one instead of drawing down on both. All you have to do is check once and a while and when the switch indicator shows that it switched, change out the empty. Works well.

**JohnB** · 08-29-2010, 09:02 PM

Hi Scott

I do use this type of gage on my portable LP tank all the time. However…

I actually use it more as a leak tester then to rely on it for how full the tank is. What 264SRinPA stated is dead on as far as tank LP pressure. The gage I have will stay green for about 80% use of the available propane inside the tank. Then when it starts showing yellow, well very soon it will be gone.

Now why I use it, like I said I use it on the portable tanks as a leak check. Hook everything up, make sure stove and BBQ grill are off. Then turn on the LP tank, pressurize the system, look for full green then shut the tank off. Come back 10 to 15 minutes later or the next morning. It should still be green. If it goes red, you have a leak in a fitting somewhere. I would not trust it for how much LP is in the tank. I always carry 2 small tanks or 1 that was just filled that I know will go the weekend.

Now on the large 30# LP tanks on the camper. Well I have about 2 different magnet color changing indicators that I cannot use. They would of worked on my smaller camper I had as it is not have the “Delux” LP tank cover. If you have the kind of cover you can lift off easy, then the magnetic ones stand a chance. They are looking for a temperature change at the LP liquid line when gas is flowing. You can also use a cheap infra red temp gun and scan the side of the tank for the liquid line when LP is flowing. There will be a temp change of a few degrees at the liquid line.

Since I have all 4 systems I still have not figured out how to use them on the Delux cover that screws to the tank mount with the all thread rod that holds the tanks on. What I rely on is the auto-change over regulator. I track my LP use and watch that change over regulator daily or at least at the end of every weekend campout. When it flips red and I’m on the other tank, then I know I have a full tank and one that just emptied.

Now they do sell a remote sensor for the auto change over regulator where it can indicate somewhere other then lifting the lid up and looking. This may be of benefit

See here for the regulator and the remote kit http://www.pplmotorhomes.com/parts/lp-gas/lp-gas-changeover-valve.htm

Hope this helps.

John

ScottK · 08-29-2010, 09:17 PM

Yup that helps. I have the auto change over and I use it as you and others have stated. I was not aware of the remote sensor - I'll take a look at that. I have the deluxe cover which make the magnetics difficult, but perhaps I'll give my infrared thermometer a try. Thanks everyone for your input.