We're in the thick of summer, which means more and more families are getting out their grills and having backyard barbeques. But before you get ready to slap some patties down on the grill, it's good to know just how much propane you have left in the tank.

Unfortunately, many propane tanks don't come with a gauge that lets you know just how much fuel you have left to cook your burgers. The good news is there are a few ways you can go about checking the level of propane in your tank without even breaking a sweat.

1. Use the weight of the propane tank. When you're determining how much propane you have left in your tank by weight, you'll need a scale. Propane tanks come with a few numbers on the handle, which includes the water capacity and the weight of the tank when it's on empty. The average propane tank weight about 17 pounds when it's empty. Weigh your propane tank and then subtract the tare weight. This will give you an approximate measurement of how much propane you have.


2. Buy a gauge for your tank. When you want to be precise instead of having an approximate amount of how much propane is in your tank, you can buy a gauge for it. Propane tank gauges come in a variety of forms and you can easily find one at your local hardware store. What's more, because you can get propane tank refills, you don't have to worry about your gauge going to waste.


3. Use hot water. If you're fine with approximations for your propane and you just need to make sure you have enough gas to grill some burgers for your cookout, you can use hot water. Fill a cup with hot water and then pour the water down the side of your propane tank. Then run your hand along the side of the tank to feel for a cool spot. That spot will be the fill level of your propane tank.

Do you need propane tank refills?

In the U.S. alone, there are about 81,000 agricultural propane customers. And for good reason. Propane is a popular and versatile gas that works for many projects including BBQ grilling and agricultural work.

If you're looking for a propane tank refill or new propane cylinders, Tulsa Gas and Gear has what you need. For more information about our propane tank refills or to learn about our air tool repair services, contact Tulsa Gas and Gear today.