How Long Does a 1,000-Gallon Propane Tank Last?
A 1,000-gallon propane tank is filled to 80%, so it holds about 800 usable gallons. At whole-house heating rates of 4–8 gallons a day, that is roughly 100–200 days; at 12 gallons a day, about two months. One industry source citing the EIA puts average household use near 750 gallons for October–March, so one fill can cover an average winter.
Days by daily use (800 usable gallons)
| Gallons per day | Days |
|---|---|
| 2 | 400 |
| 4 | 200 |
| 8 | 100 |
| 12 | 67 |
These are the same calculations as the 500-gallon tank, doubled. Enter your own burn rate in the tank duration calculator.
Energy and cost
800 gallons holds about 73.2 million BTU (91,452 BTU per gallon, EIA). At an example price of $2.78 per gallon, a fill costs about $2,224. Check your local price.
FAQ
How many gallons are usable in a 1,000-gallon tank?
About 800, since tanks are filled to 80% to allow for expansion.
When should I schedule a refill?
One supplier advises when the gauge reaches the low 30s percent; allow time for delivery in cold weather.
How much does a fill cost?
About $2,200 at an example $2.78 per gallon.