Cost of Filling a 20 LB Propane Tank: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

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The cost to fill a 20-pound propane tank may vary significantly based on several factors. These factors include the current price of propane in your area and any additional fees charged by the service provider. This article aims to provide a detailed overview of the estimated costs and factors affecting the price of filling a 20-pound propane tank.

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Factors Affecting the Cost of Filling a Propane Tank

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Local Propane Prices
r The price of propane can vary widely depending on your location. According to recent trends, the average price of propane in the United States ranged from $2.50 to $4.00 per gallon as of mid-2023.

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Tank Capacity and Volume
r A 20-pound propane tank holds approximately 4.7 gallons of propane. This volume is essential in estimating the cost of filling the tank with propane. By multiplying the price per gallon by the tank's capacity, you can get a rough estimate of the cost.

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Estimating the Cost of Filling a 20 LB Propane Tank

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To provide a more accurate estimate, let's consider the following calculations:

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Low Estimate

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$2.50 per gallon × 4.7 gallons ≈ $11.75

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High Estimate

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$4.00 per gallon × 4.7 gallons ≈ $18.80

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Conclusion: You can expect to pay between $12 and $19 to fill a 20-pound propane tank, depending on the local price of propane.

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Regional Variations

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The cost of filling a 20-pound propane tank can vary based on your region. Here are some examples from different parts of the world:

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Australia

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In Australia, 8.5 kg tanks are similar in size to 20-pound tanks. The filling station closest to the author charges AU20 for a can swap n go bottle. Additionally, local ACE Hardware fills the tank for about AU17.

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Ontario, Canada

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Based on the author's experience, filling a tank at Costco in Ontario ranges from $12 to $18. Later in the year, the price can drop as low as $9.99 per fill.

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Virginia, USA

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The cost of filling a 20-pound propane tank in Virginia ranges from $15 to $20.

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Additional Considerations

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Safety Regulations:
r For safety and legal reasons, propane tanks cannot be filled to 100% capacity. The balance of propane is referred to as 'Ullage.' Typically, this ullage is less than 5%, and it can be as low as 2.2 pounds, which is approximately 1 gallon of ullage.

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Ullage Explanation:
r As mentioned by Sreeram, 'Ullage' refers to the space in the tank left unfilled. Engineering principles generally require this space to be less than 5% of the tank's total volume. As the propane is filled, the ullage settles to this lower level.

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Conclusion

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The cost to fill a 20-pound propane tank can vary significantly based on regional differences and local propane prices. By understanding the factors that influence the cost, you can make informed decisions about propane tank refilling. Always check with your local suppliers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing.