Key Takeaways
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Above-Ground Installation Cost (Labor Only) | $250 – $1,000 |
| Above-Ground Installation Cost (Tank + Labor) | $300 – $3,000 |
| Below-Ground Installation Cost (Labor Only) | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Below-Ground Installation Cost (Tank + Labor) | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Factors Affecting Costs | Tank size, type, location, brand, installation labor |
| Refill Costs | $15 – $4,000 depending on tank size and usage |
Average Propane Tank Installation Costs
When considering propane tank installation, the cost ranges can vary significantly depending on the size and type of the tank. Here’s a breakdown of the average costs:
| Tank Size (Gallons) | Average Total Cost* |
|---|---|
| Under 100 | $20 – $65 |
| 100 | $300 – $500 |
| 120 | $400 – $900 |
| 250 | $500 – $1,200 |
| 330 | $700 – $1,500 |
| 500 | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| 1,000 | $2,000 – $5,000 |
*Note: The total costs include the tank purchase and installation fees.
Propane Tank Costs By Location
Different installation scenarios impact the overall costs of propane tank installations:
| Tank Type | Average Installed Cost |
|---|---|
| Above-Ground Tank | $300 – $3,000 |
| Below-Ground Tank | $1,500 – $5,000 |
Above-Ground Propane Tank
Above-ground tanks are generally less expensive to install compared to below-ground tanks. The installation is quicker and involves fewer additional costs such as excavation.
Underground Propane Tank
Underground tanks have higher installation costs due to the need for excavation, as well as materials to cover and protect the tank.
Propane Tank Prices By Brand
Choosing a propane tank brand can also influence costs. Here are some popular brands and their pricing structures:
| Brand | Average Tank Price* | Tank Sizes Available |
|---|---|---|
| AmeriGas | $300 – $1,200 | 100, 120, 250, 300, 500, 750, 1,000 gallons |
| Blue Rhino | $15 – $65 | 5, 15, 20, 30, 40, 60, 100 pounds |
| Flame King | $25 – $400 | 1, 10, 11, 20, 33.5, 40, 50, 60, 100 pounds |
| Ferrellgas | $50 – $250 (portable) | 10, 20, 30-pound portable tanks |
| $300 – $1,200 (permanent) | 100, 250, 500-gallon permanent tanks |
*Note: Prices depend on the size and type of tank.
AmeriGas
AmeriGas provides a variety of propane tank sizes ranging from 100 to 1,000 gallons. Their tanks are suitable for both household and commercial use.
Blue Rhino
Best known for their portable propane tanks, Blue Rhino offers smaller tanks that are ideal for grills and patio heaters.
Flame King
Flame King offers a wide range of smaller propane tanks, which can be used for various residential appliances.
Ferrellgas
Ferrellgas provides both portable and permanent tank options, catering to residential as well as small commercial needs.
Propane Tank Installation Cost Factors
Several factors can influence the overall propane tank installation cost:
| Installation Factors | Average Cost for Above-Ground Tank | Average Cost for Underground Tank |
|---|---|---|
| Tank | $50 – $2,000 | $500 – $2,500 |
| Installation Labor | $100 – $500 | $200 – $800 |
| Concrete Pad | $75 – $200 | N/A |
| Connect Gas Line Costs | $75 – $300 | $300 – $700 |
| Excavation / Trenching | N/A | $500 – $1,000 |
| Total Installed Cost | $300 – $3,000 | $1,500 – $5,000 |
Installation Labor
Labor includes the professional installation of the propane tank and connecting it to the gas lines. This step is crucial for safety and efficiency.
Tank Filling
After installation, the next significant cost is filling the tank with propane. Initial filling can add to the overall investment.
Buying vs. Renting
Deciding whether to buy or rent a propane tank can significantly affect your costs. While buying requires a larger upfront cost, renting may involve ongoing rental fees.
Propane Tank Refill Costs
Refilling your propane tank incurs additional expenses over time. Refill costs differ based on the size of the tank and its usage.
| Tank Size | Tank Capacity (Gallons) | Average Refill Cost* | Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 lbs. | 4.6 gallons | $15 – $25 | Propane grills or patio heaters |
| 100 lbs. | 23 gallons | $70 – $120 | Single appliances such as a cooktop |
| 120 gallons | 96 gallons | $300 – $500 | Hot water heater or a small appliance |
| 250 gallons | 200 gallons | $600 – $1,000 | Supplemental heating or two home appliances |
| 330 gallons | 264 gallons | $800 – $1,300 | Multiple propane appliances |
| 500 gallons | 400 gallons | $1,200 – $2,000 | Home heating or homes with several appliances |
| 1,000 gallons | 800 gallons | $2,400 – $4,000 | Home heating for larger homes or full reliance on propane |
*Note: The costs depend on current propane prices and tank size.
Propane Usage Cost Estimator
Here’s an estimate of monthly propane usage per common home appliance:
| Appliance | Estimated Monthly Usage (Gallons) | Average Monthly Cost per Appliance* |
|---|---|---|
| Furnace | 80 | $240 – $400 |
| Fireplace | 16 (1 – 3 gallons per hour) | $50 – $80 |
| Water Heater | 20 (5 gallons per month/person) | $60 – $100 |
| Cooktop | 5 | $15 – $25 |
| Clothes Dryer | 5 | $15 – $25 |
*Note: Estimates are based on average propane prices.
Propane Tank FAQs
Who Installs Propane Tanks?
Professional propane companies typically handle the installation of propane tanks. They ensure the tank is installed safely and in compliance with local regulations.
Can I Install My Own Propane Tank?
Self-installation is highly discouraged due to safety concerns and regulatory requirements. Always hire certified professionals for installation.
Do I Need A Permit To Install A Propane Tank?
Permit requirements vary by location. It’s essential to check local building codes and zoning laws to determine if you need a permit.
Where Can You Install A Propane Tank?
Propane tanks can typically be installed above ground or underground, depending on the available space and local regulations.
Getting Estimates From Propane Companies
When seeking estimates, make sure to ask relevant questions to ensure you get a comprehensive understanding of the costs involved.
Questions To Ask
- What are the total costs for tank installation and propane filling?
- Are there any additional fees for permits or inspections?
- What maintenance services do you offer post-installation?
- Do you have any financing options available?
- What safety measures do you follow during the installation?
By knowing these factors, you can make an informed decision on propane tank installation that suits your needs and budget.
