Understanding Proper Propane Tank Pressure!

7th Jun 2019

How much pressure is in my propane tank?

  • According to the national standards publication NFPA58, a propane tank with 20 pounds (5 Gal) of gas at 70°F would have a pressure of 145 psi; at 90°F, pressure would increase to 180 psi; at 105°F, pressure continues to rise to 235 psi, and at 130°F, pressures of 315 psi would be reached.
  • Why is this important to know?  Excessive pressures can cause the tank's safety relief valve to discharge.
  • What conditions contribute to excessive temperatures?  Answer:  Direct sun, dark paint colors, external heat sources, etc.
  • Pressure is not a measurement of volume.  A pressure gauge only informs you of the internal tank pressure.  A liquid level gauge is required to measure percentage of remaining volume.

Propane tank pressure