NOVA Pros

I am not sure it is considered a tool, but do any of you know where to get a good quality propane tank gauge? I saw one in a catalog, but it looked "cheezy". What is the best brand/type to get and where is the best place to find it?

Thanks.

Square Eye

What size of propane tank?
What type of gauge?
Pressure or ?

The cheezy type that sticks on the side of 20lb cylinders to show fuel level, actually works, for a while

I like this one http://www.acehardware.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3077201
But you have to lift the cylinder to check it.

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Kerrylib

The propane in the tank is liquid. The valve at the top pulls off the vapor and the liquid then boils (cools) to replace the vapor being extracted. While the tank is in use, this process continues. As a result the temperature of the liquid propane drops. The "gauges" that stick onto the side are actually thermometers that will show you this temperature change. The sides of the tank that are not in contact with the cold liquid propane will stay close to the surrounding air temp, while the part in contact with the liquid will cool down. The thermometer strip will show you where that temperature change occurs.

A simple way would be to do it like the "pro's". Simply weigh the tank. A bit harder to do with the tank hooked up, but really simple. Weigh your tank when it is empty using a bathroom scale. Typically they are 20 lb tanks, so they should weigh 20 lb more when full. The capacity is stamped on the ring around the valve. When you are getting close to the weight of the empty tank, it is time for a refill.

A pressure gauge will not do you much good. The pressure in the tank will stay pretty much constant (vapor pressure of the propane at ambient temp) until all the liquid is consumed, then the pressure will drop rapidly.

I just pick up the tank and give it a shake to "guestimate" the amount remaining. I also try to keep a second tank on hand that is filled. Note the "try". I just recently had to run to the gas station and do the exchange because I forgot to turn off the grill and ran it empty. A gauge will not help you prepare for those situations.

Sorry for being long winded and not necessarily giving you an answer.

NOVA Pros

It is just a small tank for a grill.

The one I saw in the catalog actually screwed into the stem that attaches to the gas line to the grill. I have since found one like that in stores, and am currently using it, so I will see if it continues to work.

Once you put the gauge on, then you hook the line to the gauge.

http://www.nextag.com/propane-tank-gauge/search-html

The second gauge down on the page is the one I found at a local hardware store. Has anyone used this one? Does it last?

NOVA Pros

boobou69

had one....emptied 2 tanks in no time....poor install? All you have to do is screw it into place...so no, it just isn't a good product. $30 up in smoke or should i say gas.....


boobou69

racsan

i listen for how hollow it sounds when i smack it with the cleaning brush. just got a magnetic stick-on guage. ive had the same grill for over 15 years, i just keep rebuilding it.

Texbbqchamp1

I discovered the perfect propane scale called the 'Grill Gauge'. It is used, recommended, and approved by propane professionals because it measures the 'weight' of the liquid propane and gives an instant reading. I bought one and it works better than all the others I've used and thrown away! (Grill Gauge Propane Measuring Device).

Texbbqchamp1