Propane tank size

I have been using a newer Coleman stove for the past 10 or so years with the 1lb bottles and decided to step up to a larger stove ( I am the cook when we camp in a group) and new equipment is always a plus . I got a good deal on a 3 burner 425d that was missing the fuel tank but came with a propane adapter . I decided I wanted to step up to a bulk tank . The only other thing that will be ran off this tank is a Buddy Heater in the late fall and early spring . My camping is 2 or 3 nights for the most part with 2 meals a day . Just wondering what size tank I should go with . I have seen the one gallon and it seems like it might be small for my needs , would like to get a Ten pound tank maybe the composite ? Would like to hear everyone's option. Thanks in advance Bama
 

Mojavejohn

Adventurer
tank size

My little girl and I were up in Mammoth, Ca. tent camping the first week in Oct. The lows got down to upper 20's/low 30's every night. We slept in my Springbar tent (7 man). This was the first time that I had used a Mr. Buddy Heater. The heater worked great, the tent didn't get below 55* F.

The first night we used the 1lb. propane tank. It ran out! Twice! I ran the heater on low and it drained two tanks. My daughter had to climb into my bag about 0400 just to stay warm. The next day I went into town and bought a bulk tank hose and a 20lb, (~4.5 Gal.) propane tank. It worked like a champ. I ran it on low for the next two nights without a problem. The tent stayed nice and toasty.

I'm not sure how much propane I used, as I haven't refilled the tank yet. The tank is still pretty heavy though. I didn't use it for my propane Coleman stove, I only used it for the heater. I used the 1lb tank on my stove. I think that this size tank wouldn't have any problem doing what you need. I think the best set up for me would be two ten pounders, one inside the tent and one outside hooked up to my stove and lantern.



One thing I learned about the heater is to not rely on it. I have a number of sleeping bags at home at several different Temp. ratings, anywhere from 10*-45*. I decided to bring the warm weather bags, because we were going to have the heater to keep us warm. Well, as you read, we did get cold when we ran out of gas. I'll bring the correct rated sleeping bag for the expected weather, no matter if I have the heater or not.

I hope this helps.
 

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