In the construction of any propane tank, you need a permit from the fire marshal in your local area to make sure all safety measures are met. [5] X Research source

Smaller tanks are made of similar metal as the big ones, and also do not corrode easily. An unopened portable tank, kept in the right conditions and not banged around, can last 12 years![7] X Research source

The instruction manuals of your propane-fueled appliances (such as stoves, water heaters, and driers) should show what their BTU usage is. Divide the BTU usage of these appliances by 91,500 to determine how long it’ll take that appliance to burn through a gallon of propane. The following equation – ((Tank Size (in lbs) ÷ 4. 25) × 91,500 BTU per gallon ÷ Consumption BTU) – determines how many hours of service you can get out of a propane tank. [9] X Research source Divide the size of your home (ex. 2,500 sq. ft. ) by the size of your propane tank to determine how many gallons of propane you need for each square foot of your home to heat it.

Large tanks are more equipped against the elements, but you should still check them every once in a while for signs of rust or erosion. [16] X Trustworthy Source State of Oregon Official website for the State of Oregon Go to source