How long does full propane tank typically last?

gregndeb

Are there any typical propane usage guidelines?  We camped this summer and fall with our T@B-CS (no extra S).  We haven't boondocked yet, so typically use electricity for the Alde.  Since our fridge is electric-only, that means cooking is almost the only use for propane. 
We did camp in 25 degrees in November and needed propane for our Alde.  Our inexpensive in-line propane gauge, at the tank, indicated we were somewhere less than 1/2 full.  Since previously we used so little propane, we were paranoid of running out of heat in the night....   After the trip, I pulled the tank out and sloshing it around, it felt over 1/2 full.  Measuring it on our bathroom scale was 30#.  Calculating a full tank: 15# + (80% 20#) = 31 lbs. 
So we do know the inexpensive in-line gauges are not very accurate.
How much mileage do others get on their propane?
I appreciate that Verna keeps an extra propane tank in her truck, but at the rate we seem to be using propane, an extra disposable cylinder might be all that we need to carry.
Thoughts?

LSkrabut

Take a look at the handle ring on top of your tank, the weight should be stamped on it. I would guess the empty tank is more around 17-18 lbs. I just topped mine up, it's weight empty was 18.6 stamped, after 6 days RV park camping and some propane heat checking out the ALDE, I used 1 gallon, now the tank weigh in at 38.8, 20.2 lbs for a full tank.

LSkrabut

BTW, I like using a digital luggage scale (around  $10 online) to check how much propane is in the tank, 4 bs per gallon. ):

mammabear34

LSkrabut said:

BTW, I like using a digital luggage scale (around  $10 online) to check how much propane is in the tank, 4 bs per gallon. ):

wow this is super smart !  I never would have thought of doing this !

ScottG

U-Haul sells a tank with an integrated gauge operated by an internal float. It works great, and at $30 it's the best deal going. I picked up one based on a tip from this forum, and will replace my older tank with another when it expires.

ChanW

$30? Excellent. I needed a new tank!