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The Best RV Propane Tank Gauges for Your Travel Trailer & Motorhome

Writen by Tom Hank

Fact checked by Joseph Varney

Are you tired of second-guessing if your RV still has enough fuel in the propane tanks for your next trip? If you have experienced more than one camping trip where you ran out of propane on the first day, then you need to get the best RV propane tank gauge to make sure that this does not happen ever again.

If you are the type of person who just connects the propane tank directly to the regulator hose, then you probably do not know how much gas you still have in the tank right now. Do you always need to give the tank a good shake to get a rough estimate of the contents

best rv propane tank gauge

You can get rid of all the unreliable and inaccurate guesswork just by installing a good RV propane gauge. With a good propane tank gauge, you will know precisely when you need to get your propane tanks refilled. The gauge will also give you an idea if your tanks have a leak, which is a significant safety concern.

There is no reason why you should not get one of these for your RV camper. You will be enjoying several benefits. To help you find the right valve to use, you can use the following buying guide. Here, you will learn all that you need to know about the product and how to shop for the best propane tank gauge for RV.

Table of Contents

Best RV Propane Tank Gauge Reviews

1. DOZYANT POL Propane Tank Adapter

This propane cylinder gauge is one of my favorites, mainly because it is made of 100% solid brass. Having this construction material means that this gauge is pretty tough and highly resistant to denting and cracks. It is also pretty resistant to corrosion. With that, you can be sure that this gauge will last for many camping seasons.

Another reason why I like this propane grill gauge is that it does not require the use of any special tools to install. In fact, it does not require any kind of tool at all. There is a built-in hand grip for easy installation. It only took me less than a minute to get this product installed. It just needs to be hand-tight. Do not over-tighten or you might ruin the threads.

I am glad that I no longer need to disconnect the tank to check if there is still propane inside it. The gauge will let you monitor in real-time how much propane there is in your tanks. With that, you will surely find it easier to know when you need to get the tank refilled. It can save you from the hassle of driving out of the campsite and getting a spare propane tank.

Probably the best feature of this gauge is that if your RV uses the outdated propane connection, it will convert it so that it can use the modern connection types. I like this feature because it allowed me to use propane tanks with regulator valves, which gives an added layer of safety.

The only problem that I have with this propane level gauge is that I have to remove it if I want to close the propane access door because of the added length caused by the gauge. I do not find this flaw a huge issue, though, just a minor inconvenience.
What We Like
  • Easy to install as it does not require the use of any tools
  • Can monitor tank contents in real-time
  • Can help figure out if tanks are leaking
  • Converts outdated connection to modern propane connection type
  • Needle and face of the gauge glow in the dark
What We Don’t Like
  • Needs to be removed to close the propane access doo
The issue I have with this propane gauge is but a minor inconvenience when compared to all the benefits that it provides, making it a must-have for all RV users.

2. SHINESTAR Gas Pressure Gauge

With the help of this propane tank gauge level indicator, you can quickly tell if the contents are running low. The gauge is color-coded to help you understand the status of the propane tank quickly. Green means the tank still has a lot of propane, yellow means it is starting to run low, and red means it is almost empty, and you need to refill it.

I think the best feature of this propane tank level gauge is the presence of different dials – with each one corresponding to a temperature change. For instance, if you are taking a reading on a particularly hot day, the dial gauge that you should follow is the outermost one where the measurement completely encircles the gauge face.

This gauge is also easy to install, thanks to the hard plastic grip. You can connect the business end of the gauge on your RV’s gas inlet valve using just your hands and without the need for specialized tools. It prevents over-tightening of the fittings that will eventually lead to leaks.

Just like with the first propane gauge, this gas pressure gauge from SHINESTAR will be able to tell you if the propane tank has leaks. This handy safety feature just might save you and your family’s lives soon because you can detect dangerous leaks before you even strike a match.

If you do find out that there is a leak, promptly turn off the propane tank and take your RV to the mechanic to have this issue fixed. The only problem that I encountered with this gauge is that the plastic grip used to tighten the connector is bit flimsy. After a couple of hours, the one that is on the gauge that I used cracked and split open.
What We Like
  • Easy to connect without the need for any additional tools
  • Works effectively as a leak detector
  • Comes with a color-coded dial, which makes reading easier
  • Features different meters for different temperature shift readings
  • Made from 100% durable brass construction
What We Don’t Like
  • The plastic grip is a bit fragile.
The issue with the plastic grip is easy to fix or remedy. You just have to tighten it using an adjustable wrench, so I do not find it that big of an issue. Also, when you think about all of the benefits that you stand to receive, this little problem will not bother you in the slightest.

3. Camco Propane Gauge

This RV propane tank gauge replacement will fit into the older propane inlet valves that are in RVs, boats, and propane gas grills. I use this on my ten-year-old RV so I can use modern tanks, and it is working great as a converter.

The gauge’s dial is labeled clearly. It only takes a short glance for me to find out if the propane gas level is getting low. I no longer have to lift the tank to check if there is still enough inside for my next trip. I find this helpful because my lower back is not the same as it used to be.

The dial has three measurements. The one that reaches until the end is for when the temperature outside is a bit hot. It is because propane tends to expand when heated. The shortest measurement is for when the temperature is a bit cold. It is because you can expect this gas to contract when cooled.

The median is for when the outside temperature is right in the middle of the two extremes. This propane tank gauge for RV provides additional protection against leaking lines as well as thermal protection against open flames. You can tell if your tank or gas line is leaking when the needle gradually drops even if you are not using any propane.

I do have a problem with this horizontal propane tank gauge, though. I noticed that when the temperature outside is at a comfortable level, it is not very accurate at all. Here is a tip: when the needle is still in the middle of the yellow bar, you should get your tank refilled.
What We Like
  • Provides extra protection against flames
  • Can help find leaks
  • Has a clearly labeled dial
  • Useful as a converter for using modern fittings
  • Made of durable materials
What We Don’t Like
  • Not that accurate when the temperature is cool
Although you have to make certain adjustments when reading the dial, there is nothing else to complain. This gauge can help figure out the contents of propane tanks. It also serves as a fitting converter while also performing other tasks that can benefit your RV.

4. DOZYANT Propane Tank Gauge

One thing that I liked the most about this product is how easy it is to install and detach when needed. You do not need to use any special tools. You just need your hand. It is not recommended that you use tools for it as the risk of over-tightening is real. Using a tool like a wrench will make it very easy to over-tighten.

Also, brass is a relatively soft metal, so it might ruin the threading. I am also glad that this gauge can fit all RVs, grills, and boats that have Type-1 connection. It also acts as a converter so that you can connect it to more modern fittings. This gauge can accurately work on propane tanks that can hold up to 40 pounds of fuel.

If you have a larger propane tank at home, then you can also use this gauge on it. Another neat benefit of this propane gauge is that you can use it on regular propane tank cylinders and propane regulators with a hose and propane adapter. The latter feature is great when you are using it on your grill and smoker at home.

The large dial is excellent because I can quickly tell how much propane is still in the tanks. I do not need to squint my eyes to take a reading. Also, the dial is color-coded, so it only takes a glance to get an idea of the amount of gas left in the tank.

The only issue that I have with this gauge is that it sticks out too much that I cannot close the propane access door of my RV. I need to take the gauge off whenever I need to travel.
What We Like
  • Has a large clear, color-coded dial
  • The needle and dial face glow in the dark
  • Easy to install, as you do not need any tools during the process
  • Also works as a converter from old fashioned fittings to modern ones
  • Can also be used with propane lines with regulators
What We Don’t Like
  • Sticks out too much, preventing the closing of the access door
The issue with this gauge is but a minor inconvenience, especially when you compare it with all of the benefits that you stand to get from using this product.

5. AP Products 024-1000 LP Tank Check Dual Sensor

This product is a neat little system that allows you to monitor the amount of propane left in two tanks accurately. It comprises of two sensors that magnetically attach to the bottom of the tanks. It also has a propane tank monitor that will let you check how much propane is left in both tanks.

Aside from the RV propane tank level indicator that already came with the package, there is also a free app that the user can use to get even more detailed readings. Just download and install the app, Bluetooth-pair the magnetic propane tank gauge with your smartphone, and you are done.

I also love the fact that it is easy to install. You just need to install the rubber “feet” that came with the package on the bottoms of the tanks to provide enough clearance for the sensors. After that, just slap on the RV propane tank level sensors at the bottom of the tanks. You can screw the monitor onto any flat surface on your RV.

If you do not want to ruin the dash of your RV, you can just use ordinary mounting tape. The monitor is not that heavy anyway. This propane tank scale is great because it comes with an app that can accurately measure the amount of gas there is left in two separate propane tanks. It removes all the guesswork, making the margin for error is small.

Aside from giving you a rough estimate, you will also gain an idea of the exact amount of propane left in the tank. There is one issue that should not exist if the manufacturer would just supply the correct component. The problem is with the rubber spacer that prevents the tank from damaging the sensors.

It tends to get worn down considerably after just one trip. The manufacturer sells more durable aluminum feet, but they are sold separately.
What We Like
  • Easy to install, no drilling required
  • Accurately monitors the contents of two different propane tanks
  • Comes with a monitor that you can mount easily on the RV’s dash
  • Can also be monitored using a smartphone via the free app provided
  • Can get extremely detailed information via the smartphone app
What We Don’t Like
  • The included rubber “feet” are very fragile.
If AP Products included the more durable aluminum feet with the package, then this would have been a very different propane tank gauge review. It is a pretty handy way to find out when you should get your tanks refilled.

6. GasSaf Propane Tank Gas Gauge

This propane tank gauge is compatible with anything that still uses a Type 1 connection, which is already outdated as it was used more than fifteen years ago. It allows the RV to use safer propane tanks with regulators. Also, it lets older outdoor grills use modern propane tanks while enabling them to connect to propane gas lines.

I can say that it helped me a lot because I do not need to remove the tank from its position to check if there is still enough in it. I used to give the tanks a good shake to get a feel of how much fuel is still inside, but now, I just need to take a look at the dial. I could just leave the tanks mounted on the RV.

Speaking of the dial, it is large and color-coded for ease of use. If the needle is still on the green part, then the tanks will have enough in them for a couple more camping trips. If the needle is in the yellow zone, then it might have just one more trip before it runs out. If that is the case, you should at least consider getting a refill.

If the needle is in the red, then there are mostly fumes left in the tank. My favorite feature is the automatic leak countermeasure. When the gauge detects a leak in the system, it will immediately regulate the flow of propane as a safety measure. I also like that this gauge can be installed without using any kind of tool whatsoever.

I only have one complaint. The plastic hand heel that is used to tighten the fitting on the inlet valve of the RV is very brittle. After a couple of months, the hand heel started crumbling in my hand.
What We Like
  • Easy to install, does not even need any tools whatsoever
  • Comes with an automatic leak safety countermeasure
  • Color-coded dial, which promotes ease in reading
  • Made of durable brass, making the gauge weatherproof and rustproof
  • Can be used as a converter for older RVs to use modern connectors
What We Don’t Like
  • The hand heel is very brittle, lasts only a couple months before it cracks
The fragile hand heel is not that big of an issue, as it can be re-connected using a wrench anyway. This gauge is still an essential RV accessory that you did not know you needed until now.

7. Char-Broil Propane Tank Gauge

Just like the other gauges in this list, this one can also use a Type-1 connection but can accommodate a more modern connection without any other converter. With that, you are allowed to use a propane line with a regulator if this will be used for home grills and smokers.

The dial of this gauge is also very big and somewhat easy to read. The neat thing about having this gauge installed is that I no longer need to un-mount my propane tanks and give it a good shake to figure out if there is still enough propane inside. I can now monitor it in real-time and have a replacement tank ready before the one I am currently using runs out.

I also like that there are no tools required to install this propane tank gauge. There is a plastic hand heel around the fitting of the gauge that provides a good enough grip. With that, you can install and properly tighten the gauge. There is also a dust cover that you can place on the other end if you will not be using the propane inlet valve.

I am also glad to say that you can use this gauge to determine if there is a leak in your propane hose or tank. If the needle looks like it is dropping even if you are not using any propane equipment, then there is most likely a leak. If there is a leak, the gauge will automatically lower the amount of gas that it lets through as a safety measure.

The thing that I do not like about this gauge is just the placement of the dial. As it is, I would need to crouch down to check the level of fuel in my tanks. It would have been better if the dial was angled upwards so that I can see the dial face much better.
What We Like
  • Can be used as a converter from a Type-1 to a modern fitting
  • Color-coded dial makes it easy to read; it just takes a short glance
  • The dial takes into consideration the outside temperature.
  • Does not need any special tool for installation
  • Can be used to find if the line has any leaks
What We Don’t Like
  • The angle of the dial is awkward.
The complaint I have is purely subjective and kind of a nitpick. I can even prove that there is nothing that bad that anyone can say about this product. It works like a charm. It is easy to install and durable. I also discovered that it could last a long time.

8. DOZYANT Propane Splitter

This propane splitter is a great solution when you have two propane-using appliances but only one tank. It is because this product allows the use of one tank and two regulators. With that, it is a cheaper alternative to buying two separate tanks. I find it great when camping.

You can connect one end to the inlet valve of the RV and the other end into your outdoor grill or stove. There is no longer any need to buy a separate tank. The dial of this gauge is pretty big and easy to read. The dial is also color-coded.

There were many times when I have been saved from going on propane run just a couple of minutes after I arrived at the campsite. The gauge considers the ambient temperature. I like this feature because doing the tank shake thing when it is hot outside does not work that well. It is because most of the propane in the tank has turned into a gas.

It is very easy to install, too. The other gauges that I have used in the past need a wrench to tighten correctly. The problem with that is that you can easily over-tighten this kind of fitting when you are using a tool. Because you can fit and tighten it by hand, you cannot over-tighten this gauge unless you are extremely strong.

It would have been a great tool for sharing one propane tank for the RV and a separate propane appliance, like a portable grill, for instance. However, the angle of the splitter makes it a bit awkward to connect to the inlet valve of the RV.
What We Like
  • Can connect two appliances to one tank
  • Has a large high-contrast dial
  • Color-coded dial for easier reading
  • The gauge considers the ambient temperature.
  • Does not need tools to install properly
What We Don’t Like
  • The angle of the splitter makes it awkward to use on an RV.
The issue with the RV connection is easy to remedy or fix. It is just a small issue that should not sway you from getting this gauge and all the benefits that come with it.

9. SHINESTAR Braided NPT RV Propane Pigtail Hose with Gauge

The thing that I liked the most about this product is that it allowed me to connect a separate propane tank to my RV, and not just rely on the one mounted on the underside of the camper. It is a nice option to have if you are thinking of going on an extended camping vacation.

This gauge comes with a very durable braided hose. One amazing thing about this supply hose is that you can expose it to the elements without suffering from any kind of damage whatsoever. It will even get stronger.

The supply hose is long enough that you can easily connect an external tank to your RV’s inlet valve. The hose also has enough length to connect a tank to an outdoor grill safely. The dial is large and clear. The measurements are also color-coded to guarantee quicker and easier readings.

It is also angled in a way that you do not need to crouch down to get a peek at the dial. I have but one tiny issue about this gauge, and that is it does not consider the ambient temperature. It would have been nice if I can take an accurate reading when it is hot outside.
What We Like
  • Has enough hose length to connect to an RV with ease
  • Gives any user the chance to use an external propane tank
  • Easy to install, just needs one wrench and a bit of Teflon tape
  • Has a large and color-coded dial for easy reading
  • The supply hose is weatherproof and quite resistant to punctures.
What We Don’t Like
  • The gauge does not consider the ambient temperature.
The issue I had is more of nitpick rather than a legitimate complaint. It is because there is nothing extremely bad that I can say about this product. It is accurate, easy to install and use, and very durable, making it truly a worthy investment.

10. Manchester Tank G12846 LP Gas Tank

This product is both a digital propane tank gauge and a remote sender. In other words, you can use it as a normal analog gauge or wire it up to a meter that is on the dashboard of the RV. With that, it will allow the user to monitor the amount of propane left in the gas tank while inside the cockpit.

It is a lot easier to install than what most people think it is. It is just screwed into the valve for the direct read gauge and the ground wire connected on any metal near the sender, and the other threaded into the dashboard-mounted meter. If you want, you can do the installation yourself. However, if you want to be extra sure, have your mechanic install it for you.

I am glad that this meter can take accurate readings. It can tell you when the tank still has a quarter left inside. I can tell when I need to have the tank refilled without having to open the access door and peek at the propane gauge.

The gauge is also made of very tough materials. The main body is made of solid brass, and the dial has a thick glass lens that can survive a couple of direct blows.

The only thing I did not like about this gauge is that once you install it on the tank, it is almost impossible to remove it and reinstall on another one. The plastic tabs that you can hold on to pull it off are so thin that they might break off.
What We Like
  • Can be used as an analog gauge and a digital meter
  • Can be installed by anyone with minimal required skills
  • Made of durable materials, the main body at least
  • Gives accurate readings
  • No need to open the access door to check propane levels
What We Don’t Like
  • Very difficult to remove and reinstall on other tanks
Despite this one flaw, this is a nifty piece of kit that all RV owners should have. It can give highly accurate readings and is very convenient to use.

11. Dometic LPGC10 LP Gas Checker

It is not a gas gauge per se, but it does allow for the accurate measurement of propane gas levels quickly and easily. You just place the tip of the ultrasonic propane tank level sensor on the side of the tank. If the light turns green, then it means that the propane level is up to that height. When the light turns red, there is no propane at that height of the tank.

This tool is very compact. It is just the size of a pen, so you can keep it inside of the pocket, or inside the glove box of your RV. You can also get one for use at home. Use it to check the tank on your grill or if you have an outdoor gas range. You do not need much space for this nifty little appliance.

Another thing that I liked about this propane checker is that you can use it on different kinds of propane tanks. I have used this on steel tanks, and it worked fine. Also, the manual says that it can work on aluminum tanks. Just make sure that you press the tool perpendicular to the tank side to get a more accurate reading.

My favorite benefit of this device is that it is very easy to use. Just press the end of the device onto the outside of the tank until it lights up. There are no buttons to press, no dials to twist, and no numbers to decode. You just need to wait a couple of seconds for the device to light up. If it does not, then it must mean that you are not holding the device perpendicular to the tank.

The only problem of this measuring tool is that it is only calibrated for use on 20lb tanks. If you use it on bigger tank size, it will not give accurate measurements. With that in mind, note that if you are using bigger tank sizes, like a 30lb, or even a 40lb tank, it does not matter, you will most likely have trouble using this tool.
What We Like
  • Very small, compact, and easy to store
  • Easy to use; there are no switches to flip or
  • Can be used on aluminum and steel propane tanks
  • Easy to decipher, no numbers or buttons to press; the color-coded dial will let you know when to buy
  • Only takes a few seconds to get a reading; just make sure that the tool is perpendicular to the tank
What We Don’t Like
  • It can only be used accurately on 20lb tanks; anything larger will yield to wrong measurements.
Although this measuring tool does have its limitations, it is a great backup tool in case the fuel gauge of your propane tanks conks out on you.

12. Cuisinart CTG-200 In-line Propane Tank Gauge

Cuisinart is one of the brands that you can trust when it comes to kitchen appliances and accessories. This propane tank gauge of theirs is a winner as well. It lets the user closely monitor how much propane is still left in a 20lb tank in real-time.

This fuel gauge is very easy to install. You can easily and quickly connect this by yourself and without using any tool whatsoever. There is a built-in hand heel grip on both ends of the device that lets you connect one end to the propane tank and the other end to the regulator valve and hose.

Using this gauge will eliminate the need for the old-fashioned way of figuring out how much fuel there is in the tank, which is lifting and shaking it. It also provides a more accurate reading.

It is a very sturdy piece of hardware. The gauge itself is made of 100% solid brass and comes with thick, beefy O-rings. If you will be using this for an outdoor grill, you do not need to worry about leaving it at the mercy of the elements. It is because it will not rust.

It would have been the perfect propane tank gauge if only it considered the ambient temperature. You might get an inaccurate reading when it is hot outside. This situation might happen because propane turns into a gas when heated, so the pressure inside will increase by quite a bit.
What We Like
  • Very easy to install
  • Can accommodate tanks up to 20lbs
  • Monitors fuel levels in real-time
  • The dial is big and color-coded for easier reading.
  • Weatherproof and rustproof
What We Don’t Like
  • The gauge does not consider ambient temperature
Although it is not the perfect propane fuel gauge, it is still a nifty accessory that you should seriously consider getting. It is not just for your kitchen but also for your outdoor grill, or even RV.

Best RV Propane Tank Gauges Buying Guide

How Does an RV Propane Tank Gauge Work?

Propane tank gauges are inline pressure gauges. In other words, it does not work like the fuel gauge in your car. What it does, instead, is measure the amount of gasoline in the tank. A propane tank gauge measures the pressure inside the tank.

A propane tank, when full, has a lot of pressure built up inside of it. It will cause the needle of the propane tank gauge to spike up. When you start to use up the contents of the tank, the pressure will begin to drop, and so will the needle on the dial.

Usually, propane tank gauges are color-coded according to the amount of gas that is still inside the tank. Green means the tank is always full, yellow means you need to order a new tank or have the one you have refilled, and red means it would not even light up your grill.

Technically, when the pressure gauge is on the red, it does not necessarily mean that the tank is empty. There might still be a pound or so of liquid propane left inside, but that is not enough to create enough pressure to guarantee adequate gas flow through the outlet, gas line, and into the burner.

It is the reason why you need to get your tank refilled while the gauge is still on the yellow. Other propane tank gauges are not reliant on inside gas pressure at all. The most accurate ones are those that are miniature heavy-duty digital weighing scales. These are attached at the bottom of the propane tanks. They then send signals to a digital monitor at the cockpit.

Do I Need a Propane Tank Gauge for my RV?

Yes, and if you do not have it yet, you should get one as soon as you can. Your RV relies on propane for so many things – from cooking your food, keeping the refrigerator running, and keeping the interior of the vehicle comfortably warm.

If you are blissfully unaware that your propane tanks are running low, your next camping trip will be less than ideal. It is even possible for it to become horrid. Having a propane tank gauge will inform you when you need to have the tanks refilled, or if you still have enough for one more camping trip.

How to Change/Remove/Install an RV Propane Tank Gauge?

Modern propane tank gauges are pretty easy to install. If you will be using an outdoor grill, then you just have to connect the inlet fitting on the propane tank. Most gauges these days have hand heel handles. These handles allow users to connect them by only using their bare hands.

It is essential to just hand-tighten the gauge onto the propane tank. If you over-tighten the fitting, then it would strip the threading of the fitting and cause a leak. Once you install the gauge on the tank, you can then connect the other end to a gas regulator and gas line.

It is somewhat the same procedure when connecting the gauge on an RV, but you need to connect the outlet end into the input fitting of the RV and the other end to a propane tank.

How Do I Check the Level of my RV Propane Tank?

If you are from the old school crowd, the way you would measure the amount of propane left in the tank is to pick it up and give it a shake. Then you would make a rough estimate based on the amount of sloshing noises you hear coming from inside the tank. The problem with this method is that it is very inaccurate and hard on the back.

If you have a propane tank inline pressure gauge, you just need to take a peek at the dial, so you will have an idea of how much fuel is still left. The dials of propane tank gauges are often color-coded for easier reading. If the needle is in the large green zone, then that means the tank is pretty much still full.

If the needle is in the yellow zone, then it means you need to get your tank refilled. If you let your propane go down to the red zone, there is not enough pressure inside the tank to push even a bit of propane to the burner.

Some tank gauges are calibrated in such a way that they will also factor in ambient temperature when giving a reading. These gauges usually have three scale indicators. The longest one is for high ambient temperatures, the one in the middle is for cool weather conditions, and the shortest one is for cold days.

The reason for the different lengths of the indicators is that the pressure inside the tank increases when it is hot outside and decreases when it is cold.

Are Propane Tank Gauges Accurate?

If properly calibrated, inline propane tank gauges are pretty accurate. However, you will not get a definite amount from them. You will only be getting a rough estimate of the contents because these gauges rely on gas pressure inside the tank.

Another issue with inline pressure gauges is that their readings will also depend on the ambient temperature because propane expands when heated. It means that you might get a higher reading when it is hot outside compared to when it is a cooler day, but in reality, the amount of propane is still the same.

Then there are the gauges that work similarly to a weight scale. These are calibrated according to the full weight of the propane tank. These are pretty accurate when they are calibrated to work on a specific size of a propane tank.

How Long Does Propane Last in an RV?

It will depend on how much you rely on all the modern amenities of your RV. For instance, if you will be using the propane tank for grilling or whatever, then a full 20lb tank of propane might be good enough to take with you for maybe three or four overnight camping trips, with minimal use of the gas grill.

If you will be very frugal and save gas where you can, then a 20lb tank can last for an entire camping season. If you want an even more detailed computation of how long your propane tank will last, then you can use any one of the many calculators that you can find online.

You just need to find out how many BTUs of heat your propane appliances make, which you can usually find on the manufacturers’ website. If you cannot find the specific BTU of your appliances, you can search for the average BTUs those appliances create.

You just need to input the total BTUs your appliances create and the size propane tank you are using. You will then get a result telling you the total number of hours the tank will last. From that result, you can pretty much figure out how many camping trips you can get from one full tank.

How Do I Know if My RV Propane Tank is Low?

If you are not using a propane tank gauge to measure the contents of the tank, there are some signs that you need to keep an eye for. If you notice these signs, then you need to get your propane tanks charged back up.

First, you will notice that your food cooks slower than usual. If the pressure inside the propane tank starts to lower the amount of gas, then it can push through the line and into the burner. If the flames are not as high as they used to be and if they are not quite as hot as they were before, those are indicators that you will be running out of propane real soon.

Another sign that your propane is getting low is when you notice that your RV’s refrigerator is not as cold as it used to be. If your refrigerator could not even make ice cubes, then that is a clear indicator of low propane levels.

Another method involves weighing the tank using a luggage scale. First, you need to take note of the “tare weight” of the tank. It refers to the weight of the tank when empty. Weigh the tank using the luggage scale and subtract the tare weight from the value you get from the scale.

Usually, 20lb propane tanks are filled with 17 pounds of propane. If there is just a pound or so of propane left in the tank, then it is pretty much empty already.

Care and maintenance

The neat thing about propane tank gauges is that they require very little maintenance. However, they do need a bit of TLC now and then, so they will perform as expected.

First of all, you should wipe the dial of the gauge clean as often as you can. A clear dial glass will allow you to read the needle much easier. If you will be installing a gauge on your RV, make sure that the dial does not hit the access door.

Use the same damp rag to give the bronze parts of the gauge a good cleaning. You might need to provide these parts with a bit more elbow grease as dirt and dust can get into the many pits on the bronze. You do not have to polish it or anything. You just have to get it clean as much as you can.

The neat thing about inline propane tank gauges is that you can use them to tell if there is a leak on the gas lines or if there is something wrong with the regulator. If the needle on the gauge is dropping considerably, even if you are not using any of your propane appliances, then there is a leak somewhere between the gauge and the propane tank.

Buying Guide

The old-school method of measuring if there is still any propane left in the tank is to lift it and give it a shake. Aside from being tiring, it is also very inaccurate. It is better to use a gauge to get a more accurate reading of the contents of a propane tank.

Here are some of the things you have to look for when shopping for a new propane gas tank gauge:

The Type of Gauge – There are different kinds of gauges, with each one working differently. One of the types you can choose is the weight gauge. This type uses the weight of the tank to figure out how much propane is still left. It is not recommended for RVs because you will need to lift the tank and place it on the gauge to get a reading.

You can also go for pressure gauges. These units are just basic pressure gauges that measure the content of the tanks based on the amount of gas pressure inside. These types are the most popular at present.

However, they are not that accurate and prone to pressure changes due to the temperature. Also, they do not give accurate readings. They just say full, low, and almost empty. Another type is the magnetic gauge. It works by tracking changes in temperature inside the tank.

It also displays different colors depending on the level of propane left. The downside is that you need to buy a number of these gauges since their range is very short.

Lastly, there is what we call as the ultrasonic gauge. It is the most high-tech of the propane gauges. It uses ultrasonic sound waves shot inside the tank. The receiver in the gauge measures the time the sound waves bounce back and then uses that to calculate the amount of fuel left inside the tank.

Build Quality – Just like with anything else, the quality of the materials used for making the gauge, and also how the gauge was built, will significantly impact how it performs. You need to search for gauges that were made by reputable companies. Take note that they will be more expensive than other no-name gauges, but rest assured that they will be worth the extra cost.

Your Budget – Take the amount that you are willing to pay into consideration as well. Having a budget in mind will make it easier to limit the number of choices you have. It is because you will automatically eliminate the ones that you cannot afford.

However, you should not set your budget so low that you can only afford to buy cheap brands. Provide yourself with a little wriggle-room so you can still purchase the higher quality gauges.

Other RV Propane Tank Gauges We Reviewed

DOZYANT Propane Tank Gauge

This gauge is small and compact. It can also provide a very reliable reading regardless of the weather.

Key Features:

  • Can be used on all tanks using a Type-1 connection
  • Made of 100% solid brass for utmost durability
  • The dial takes into consideration the temperature.

Flame King Propane Tank Gauge

This gauge will help you monitor the amount of propane left in the tank in real-time. You will not be caught by surprise ever again.

Key Features:

  • Large, clear, glow-in-the-dark dial
  • Automatic leak control
  • Can be used with other tank fixtures

Grill Gauge Original Propane Tank Scale

It may look just like an ordinary hand scale, but it is a neat way to figure out if your propane tank still has enough gas or not.

Key Features:

  • A simple, yet very accurate method of measure
  • You just need to lift the tank a couple of inches off the ground.
  • Can be used for 20lb. and 15lb. tanks

GASLAND Propane Tank Gauge

This unit is not just a gas gauge. It is also a very useful propane tank splitter.

Key Features:

  • Can be used on tanks and appliances that use Type-1 connectors
  • Also doubles as a propane tank splitter
  • Has a gas leak detector; automatically throttles propane

AP Products 024-1002 Propane Tank Indicator

This unit is a nifty little device that accurately measures the level of propane in the tank and sends the data straight to your smartphone.

Key Features:

  • Comes with plastic legs for ground clearance
  • The kit comes with two gauges.
  • Uses Bluetooth connectivity to monitor your tanks via your smartphone

GASPRO Propane Tank Gauge Level Indicator

This unit is a no-frills, no gimmick propane tank gauge that works excellently.

Key Features:

  • Comes equipped with an Acme thread and an inner female POL
  • Easy to install; does not need any special tools for installation
  • Easy to read color-coded dial

DOZYANT Propane Gauge and Splitter

When you want to use your outdoor grill, but you do not want to cut off the rest of your RV from the propane supply, then this DOZYANT product is what you have been looking for.

Key Features:

  • Can connect two regulators to one tank
  • Can precisely monitor the amount of propane without having to remove the tank
  • Made from solid brass

Kohree Propane Splitter

You no longer have to detach your tank anymore whenever you need to use your outdoor grill with the help of this handy fuel gauge/splitter.

Key Features:

  • Easy to install, no tools needed
  • Splits one tank for use into two regulators
  • Has a clear, easy to read dial

SHINESTAR Propane Tank Gauge

This product is a simple, yet very accurate propane pressure/gas level gauge. Never be caught by surprise by an empty tank ever again.

Key Features:

  • Fits all that use Type-1 or QCC1 connectors
  • Has a leak detection system that cuts off the supply immediately
  • Allows to monitor fuel level without removing the tank from the RV

Camplux Propane Tank Gauge

This gauge is made to last. It is entirely weatherproof and made from durable materials. It might be the first and last gauge you will ever buy.

Key Features:

  • Easy to install and comes with a large, beefy hand heel
  • Has an ACME and POL threading
  • Comes with adapter for 100lb POL tanks

GasOne 50120 Propane Gauge

Using this propane gauge will help eliminate all the guesswork when it comes to finding out if you have enough propane for your next trip.

Key Features:

  • Has a bright, easy to read, color-coded gauge dial
  • Made from solid brass, thereby ensuring that it will not rust nor crack
  • Easy to connect just using your hands

Gauge Master Premium Propane Tank Gauge

This unit is not only a propane gauge. It also has safety features that might just save your life someday.

Key Features:

  • Comes with a leak detection system that shuts off the tank
  • Glow in the dark, color-coded fuel gauge
  • Comes with an end cap cover to prevent weather damage

GASLAND Propane Tank Gauge

With just a glance at this propane tank gauge, you will be able to tell if you need to refill the tank or if you still have a lot.

Key Features:

  • Can be used for ACME or POL connectors
  • Can be easily installed by hand
  • Comes with a 90-day return warranty; also has excellent customer service

Conclusion

You deserve more than running out of propane right in the middle of a camping trip, especially if things are running quite smoothly up until that point. The only way that you can prevent this from happening is by installing the best RV propane tank gauge on your RV so that you can monitor just how much propane are still in your tanks in real-time.

Hopefully, by now, you already learned all that you need to know about propane gauges, or at least, you have gathered adequate information that you can make an informed decision when you are shopping for one.

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