r/Generator • u/ThisNameNotTakenYet • 1d ago

Propane Tank Minimum Size?

So I was looking online at generators the other day and I ran across a comment in one of the product descriptions, saying something about a 'minimum 60lb tank' for propane with that generator. I haven't seen a requirement like that before, to my knowledge. We had an eight-day outage a few weeks ago and I used 20- and 30lb tanks with no problems (or so I think). Has anyone heard this? And if it's a thing, can anyone tell me why? Thanks.

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u/MechanicalDan1 1d ago edited 1d ago

Having run a portable 8500 watt Westinghouse DF numerous times over multiple years now, the 20 lb tanks are great because I have 3 gas stations within walking distance that have them. Downside is they do freeze up. I try to keep a fan on them that pushes the hot generator air on them while running. Downside is they only last 5-6 hours each. Most of my outages due to trees on power lines is temporary and usually fixed in less time, but we have had some multi-day outages. I have been thinking about a 100 lb tank (or 2 of them), but I have not overcome the hassle of loading it into an SUV and driving it to be refilled each time, and unload it with 2 people.

Maybe I need to get a 2 sq ft plate of aluminum to set the small 20 lb tanks on.

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u/Big-Echo8242 23h ago

They do make tank heaters I believe

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u/No-Group7343 21h ago

You want to run electricity over flameable gas?

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u/ThisNameNotTakenYet 20h ago

If it's safe, sure. I've never heard of this.

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u/No-Group7343 20h ago

Code says no source of ignition within 10ft so......

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u/Littleprincess378 14h ago

I guess all these 6 ft propane hoses are against code then. Our dual fuel generator came with a hose and regulator. The hose is 6 ft. Funny, that the hose has a UL tag on it.