How long will a 20lb propane tank last on a heater?

What factors determine how long a 20lb propane tank will last on a heater?

What is the typical BTU rating for a heater that consumes propane? How does the capacity of the propane tank affect its duration? What role does temperature play in determining the duration of a propane tank on a heater?

Factors that Determine the Duration of a 20lb Propane Tank on a Heater:

The duration of a 20lb propane tank on a heater is influenced by various factors, including the BTU rating of the heater, the capacity of the propane tank, and the temperature at which the heater operates.

When determining how long a 20lb propane tank will last on a heater, it is important to consider the BTU rating of the heater. Heaters that consume propane typically have a BTU (British Thermal Units) rating, which indicates the amount of heat they can produce per hour. For example, a heater rated at 30,000 BTU per hour will consume propane at a certain rate.

The capacity of the propane tank also plays a crucial role in determining its duration on a heater. A 20lb propane tank typically contains about 430,000 to 460,000 BTU of energy. The actual duration of the tank will depend on the specific consumption rate of the heater and the capacity of the tank. In the case of a heater consuming 30,000 BTU per hour, a 20lb propane tank will last for approximately 14 to 15 hours of continuous use.

Temperature is another factor that can affect the duration of a propane tank on a heater. According to Gay-Lussac's Law, the pressure and volume of a gas (such as propane) are directly proportional to its temperature. Therefore, fluctuations in temperature can impact the readings on the propane gauge, which may affect the estimation of how much propane is left in the tank.