If you have ever run out of gas right in the middle of a barbecue, or if you have ever woken up to a freezing room because the gas ran out in the night, then you know just how frustrating that experience can be. If you want to avoid such unexpected incidences in the future, then read on to find out how you can install the best propane tank gauge so you always know exactly how much gas you have.
A propane tank gauge simply tells you whatever gas is remaining in your cylinder, and warns you whenever the gas level gets too low. In fact, it can even alert you if there is a gas leak. For such a small device, a propane tank gauge certainly comes with a lot of benefits.
Read on to find out everything you need to know about how to choose the right one to suit your needs in our in-depth review and buying guide. We’ve also included a list of the 10 best options available on the market to make your choice even easier.
Contents
Best Propane Tank Gauge: Editor’s Top Picks
What’s a Propane Tank Gauge?
A propane tank gauge is simply an instrument that is used to determine the level of gas remaining inside a propane tank. A typical gauge has two ends designed to be connected to the propane tank in the grill hose.
Setting up a propane tank gauge is a relatively simple process that doesn’t require tools or advanced skills. Once the gauge is set up, it will start showing you readings of your gas levels, which means that you will always have an idea of how much gas you have left.
Their primary use is in helping to prevent those inconvenient situations where the gas runs out while you’re cooking, barbecuing, and so on. When the needle is in the green zone it means that all is well. If it goes to the yellow, about a quarter tank of your gas has been depleted. Once it drops further than that into the red mark, then you know it’s time to refill your gas.
Things to Consider When Buying a Propane Tank Gauge
When choosing the best propane tank gauge, there are a few factors that you need to consider in order to ensure that you get the right one for your needs. We’ve listed some of them below. Go through each of them carefully so you can avoid the frustration of your gas depleting at the most inopportune moments.
-
1. Ease of Use/Setup
For the most part, installing a propane gauge is a pretty easy process that you can do on your own. It doesn’t require the use of any tools or hiring a professional. All you need is to screw in one of the ends to the gas tank in the other and to your grill. Once setup is complete, you can check for leaks, and you’re done.
However, although the process is simple, some models make it easier than others. On our list of the 10 most popular options on the market, you will find that we’ve selected the tank gauges that are the easiest to install.
-
2. Certification
They are some regulatory organizations that certify each propane tank gauge for quality and safety. Make sure that the gauge you choose is UL/DOT certified in the US and Canada.
-
3. Quality
Choose a propane tank gauge that is made from heavy-duty, commercial-grade material that will last a long time. Durability is important when it comes to products like these because the last thing you want is to have to constantly change the gauge because it’s faulty.
It’s a good idea to choose a high-quality product now even if it means paying a little extra because it’ll save you a lot of money in the long run. Make sure you choose one that comes with a warranty from the manufacturer for your peace of mind.
-
4. Features
It’s vital to choose a propane tank gauge that has all the necessary features you need it. For instance, you might want to choose one that fits a variety of appliances with type-I connection, or you may want one that’s compatible with propane tanks of a certain size.
Some have color-coded dials for easy viewing while others monitor fuel without the need to remove the tank. Carefully consider the features that are important to you and then choose the best propane tank gauge accordingly.
-
5. Price
This is obviously an important factor to consider before making your choice. As with most other appliances and devices, propane tank gauges are available at varying prices. Try not to reach for the cheapest model you can find, but rather consider the price along with the other factors listed in this buying guide. That way, you can make sure that the gas gauge that you choose will serve you well.
Top 10 Best Propane Tank Gauge Reviews:
1. DozyAnt Propane Gas Meter
If you own an RV and you’ve ever had worries about running out of gas right in the middle of cooking or camping, then this device is the ideal addition to your RV gear. In fact, this handy little contraption will save you from unnecessary trips to refill your propane tank when there’s still some gas left in it.
With this tank gauge, you’ll always know exactly how much gas you have left. This is undoubtedly the best RV propane tank gauge for the money, and it’s the reason why we’ve put it first on our list. In addition to being easy to attach, this propane tank gauge is extremely easy to read.
It has screw threads for installation which lets you attach it without the need for tools or professional help. It’s compatible with all models and brands that have a QCC1 or type-I connection and will work perfectly for propane tanks up to 40 pounds.
This gas gauge is also ideal to use with propane regulators with a hose or adapter and propane tank cylinders. You’ll be able to use it with your heaters, camp stoves, lanterns, fire pit tables, tabletop grills, and any other propane gasoline appliances. The unit is made from solid brass which easily withstands the elements, and it’s also scratch-resistant and corrosion-proof.
Highlighted Features
- The color-coded dial offers easy viewing
- Secure, airtight connection for all appliances
- Made from high-quality brass for long-lasting durability
- Heavy-duty design is highly resistant to damage
- Extremely easy to install without tools
2. Camco Propane Gauge
This propane gas gauge is designed to give you a quick and easy view of your propane levels. You’ll never again have to guess how much gas you have left thanks to this little device. It also has a leak detector built in to give you a warning if you ever have a gas leak.
For anyone searching for the best-rated propane tank gauge, this could very well be what you’re looking for. You will always be able to tell how much gas you have left at a glance. This easy-to-install unit offers a simple and convenient ACME/OPD connection. With this pressure gauge, the size of your tank is of no consequence.
After installing this device, you will never again be surprised the next time your gas runs out. Just remember, when the needle starts moving towards red, this is not time to dillydally. Make sure you refill your gas tank as soon as you can, otherwise you risk running out at the most inopportune moment. Perfect for gas grills, boats, RVs, and more, this is a great product for anyone who wants peace of mind.
Highlighted Features
- The unit is extremely easy to install and read
- Very simple ACME/OPD or type-I connection
- Offers excellent flow protection if the gas line is broken
- High-quality construction at an affordable price
- In case of fire, the device provides thermal protection
3. Astor Propane Tank Gauge
This device is designed to help you prevent the frustration which accompanies a depletion of your gas during important activities, such as cooking or grilling. If you never want to be confronted with a situation where your gas runs out just as you are about to have a barbecue with friends and family, then you need to install this on your propane tank right away.
If you think about it, do you have any idea what your propane tank levels are right now? If you don’t have a tank gauge is installed, the odds are you have no idea. You have to guess whether you have enough gas for your next grilling, cooking, or heating session.
That’s why you need this reliable gauge that is not only safe and durable but also affordable too. With this propane tank gauge, you’ll ga et very accurate reading which is color-coded for your ease of use. It’s very clear to see how much gas you have at a glance, you don’t even have to squint or bend over in order to see it. This is undoubtedly the best propane tank level gauge that you will find on the market today.
Highlighted Features
- Extremely safe technology with gas leak alert feature
- High-quality solid brass construction from a reliable brand
- Very easy to install and read the color-coded gas gauge
- High precision meter gives accurate readings
- Comes with a 100% moneyback guarantee
4. Gasland Propane Tank Gauge
This propane tank gauge is made from high-quality brass and uses hot forging technology to give better performance. The Y-splitter tee has a gas leak detector which helps to alert you if you have a gas leak. If you’re someone who is concerned with the safety of your family and everyone else around you during your cooking, heating, or grilling activities, then this is certainly a device that you should consider.
This is the best propane tank gauge RV owners can get. Thanks to the high quality and affordability of the unit, you get the most value for money. You can be sure that this gauge will serve you well for a very long time to come.
The advanced design is a lot safer than ever before. It’s also extremely convenient and easy to install. Compatible with QCC1 or type-I connection, this gauge is the ideal solution for a wide variety of gas appliances. No tools are needed to install it and you’ll be able to know exactly how much gas you have left in your tanks just by looking at the easy-to-read dial.
Highlighted Features
- Very easy to install, no tools required
- The simple design dial is extremely easy to read
- Made from high-quality solid brass for long-lasting durability
- Suitable for temperatures between zero and 50°C
- QCC1 or type-1 inlet connector
5. Grill Gauge Propane Tank Scale
This original propane tank scale from the Grill Gauge brand will help you determine how much gas you have left in your tank by weighing it. The new design has an easy lift indicator which makes it work better than ever before.
The manufacturers have added a dial that has been redesigned, as well as an auto-check indicator. All you have to do to use this tank gauge is to hook it up to the tank and then lift the tank just a few inches off the ground. Once you place the tank back on the ground, you can unhook the gauge and then read the dial. The indicator will stay in place, showing you exactly how much propane is left in your tank.
As you can see, it’s extremely easy to use and in addition to that, the manufacturer offers a risk-free purchase with a 100% moneyback guarantee.
For anyone looking for an easy and convenient propane gauge, this could be the ideal solution for your needs. Made from high-quality materials, this gauge is resistant to the elements, dust, rust, and so on. It’ll still work perfectly even if it’s accidentally dropped.
Highlighted Features
- The reliable propane tank scale offers accurate readings
- Comes with a new redesigned easy lift indicator
- Very simple design that is, easy to read at a glance
- Multipurpose handheld tank gauge ideal for various applications
- Comes with a convenient money-back guarantee
6. DozyAnt Propane Gauge
This easy-to-install propane tank gauge is ideal for anyone who wants long-lasting durability and safety. Made from high-quality 100% solid brass, this tank gauge won’t rust, scratch, dent, or fall prey to the elements.
It offers a secure, airtight connection for your propane tank cylinder, propane regulator and hose, propane adapter, and many more appliances. It provides excess flow protection which means that in case of a broken gas line, you’re protected. It also has thermal protection if a fire breaks out.
The dial is color-coded to give you extremely easy viewing. This means you don’t have to squint or bend over to try and make sense of tiny level markings. You’ll be able to glance at the dial and know immediately whether your tank is sufficiently full (green), low (yellow), or empty (red).
One would expect such quality to be priced extremely high, but this brand manages to bring you durability, safety, and reliability at a very affordable price. If you are searching for a propane tank level indicator that will serve you well for a long time to come, this is a product you should seriously consider.
Highlighted Features
- High-quality construction using heavy-duty solid brass
- QCC1 connection compatible with a variety of appliances
- Monitors fuel without the need to remove the tank
- Color-coded style makes it easy to see the propane level
- No tools are required for installation
7. GMA Propane Tank Meter
With this device installed, you will never again run out of gas without knowing about it well in advance. By installing this gauge, you will be able to keep an eye on exactly where your propane levels are at all times.
If you often use your propane gas to fuel your barbecue grill, RV camper, outdoor heater, etc., then you know just how frustrating it can be for your gas to unexpectedly run out in the middle of a cold night or a barbecue with friends and family. It’s extremely easy to miscalculate the amount of propane left in the tank and this device will take away all the guesswork for you.
Manufactured with the best craftsmanship, using top-grade brass, this unit will offer you reliable, long-lasting durability. It’s made to be universally compatible with tanks and appliances which use type-I connections.
Furthermore, you don’t need tools to install it, and it will be up and running within just a couple of minutes. This gas gauge is absolutely safe and it conforms to DOT regulations. It comes with a cover as well as a built-in anti-leak detector which restricts gas flow if a leak in the hose is detected.
Highlighted Features
- High-quality premium propane tank meter
- Offers very accurate readings
- Extremely easy to install
- Universal fit requires no pipe thread tape
- Conforms to DOT safety regulations
8. YSN Imports Propane Gas Meter
This brand specializes in manufacturing propane accessories that are designed for everyday use. When you install this high-quality brass propane tank gauge, it ensures that you never again have to worry about your gas running out at inopportune moments.
This gas gauge meter also alerts you in case of any leaks, which means that you enhance the safety of your family and everyone also around. Designed for use both in daylight and nighttime conditions, you can easily read this dial no matter how dark it is thanks to its glow-in-the-dark needle display.
This is a unique feature that you’ll certainly appreciate if you’re camping in poor light. You’ll still be able to tell how much propane you have left for your grilling, heating, powering your RV, and so on. The unit connects easily without the need for tools or professional service.
It fits a wide variety of appliances that have type-I connections. At 3.5 inches long, this propane tank gas gauge meter is compact and exactly what you need to ensure you never run out of gas unexpectedly again.
Highlighted Features
- Glow-in-the-dark dial makes it easy to read at night
- Made from quality 100% brass for durability
- Includes emergency flow control to detect gas leaks
- Compatible with a wide range of type-I connection appliances
- Comes with a money-back guarantee from the manufacturer
9. ShineStar Propane Tank Meter
If you’re searching for the best propane tank gauge with a very simple, easy-to-use design, then this could be the product for you. When it comes to knowing exactly how much gas you have for your RV, gas grill, propane heater, and so on, this device will quickly and easily give you the readings you need.
Compatible with QCC1 or type-I hoses, this device has a color-coded dial that shows you at a glance whether you have enough gas (green) or if you are running on empty (red). If the dial is pointing to yellow, then you know you’re running low and it’s time to think about refilling your cylinder.
Made from high-quality brass material, this gas gauge is offered at an extremely competitive price. Once it’s installed on your propane tank, you will be able to detect not only how much gas you have left, but it’ll also alert you if they are any dangerous leaks within your system. This gas pressure meter is ideal for RV campers, fire pit tables, turkey fryers, and various other propane appliances.
Highlighted Features
- The unit detects dangerous gas leaks within the propane system
- A color-coded dial allows you to see gas levels at a glance
- Ideal for use on gas grills, heaters, camp stoves, smokers, etc.
- Monitors fuel levels without having to remove the tank
- Provide secure, airtight connections for your safety
10. GasPro Propane Tank Level Gauge
If you’re someone who spends a lot of time grilling or cooking with gas, or if you use it for heating, etc., then you need a propane tank gauge installed so that you never again run out of gas in the middle of the night or while you’re cooking.
There’s nothing quite as inconvenient and frustrating as running out of gas during a barbecue with a yard full of people waiting for their meal. With this device, that never has to happen to you again. You always know how much propane is left in your tank thanks to the color-coded dial which allows you to simply glance at the levels and determine whether your tank is on high, low, or empty.
Just keep in mind that when you install this propane tank gauge, it won’t begin reading levels immediately, but it only starts when you get the propane flowing. If, after installing, you determine that the needle is moving, then it likely means that these are multifunction or a leak somewhere.
Simply follow the instructions outlined below to install your propane tank gauge properly, take care of the leak, and then reinstall the device.
Highlighted Features
- This unit is compatible with propane tanks of up to 40 pounds
- ACME/QCC1 or Type-1 connections for heaters, gas grills, etc.
- Monitors your fuel levels without having to remove the tank
- High-quality material offers a secure, a tight connection
- Easy installation with no tools required
How to Read a Propane Tank’s Percentage Gauge?
As previously mentioned, reading a propane tank’s gauge is a simple process. When the needle is pointing to the green mark, all is well. If it’s on the yellow, you need to get ready to change your tank. Once it goes to the red, you no longer have any gas to use.
Most models that you’ll find out there have a similar design and they are all easy to read. There are three main types of tank gauges, and these are in-line pressure gauges which are the most common type. These work under pressure to let you know if your tank is full or empty.
The second type is the analog propane scale which works more or less like a luggage scale. This one lets you know how much gas you have left by weighing your tank. The third type of propane tank gauge is the digital propane scale which offers your reports regarding the percentage of gas left.
How to Install a Propane Tank Gauge?
Finding the best propane tank gauge is extremely easy. Installing it is even easier. It’s something that you can do by yourself even if you’ve never installed one before. There’s no need for any tools or professional help. All the models listed in our review list are equally easy to install.
Simply screw one of the ends of the propane tank gauge to the gas tank while the other one goes to the grill hose, and that’s it. You’re done! Just make sure that you turn the gas off before you begin installing. When everything is in place, check for leaks. You’ll know if there’s a leak because the needle will keep dropping, giving you a sure indication that your gas is leaking.
In such a case, disconnect the tank and fix the issue before using your gas again. When the propane tank gauge is installed properly and there are no leaks, the needle will stay stationary, much like the gas gauge in your car.
How does Propane Tank Gauge work?
The way that a propane tank gas gauge works are extremely simple. Once connected, the device gives you readouts of how much gas you have left. It also alerts you in case the are any gas leaks. As long as you have chosen a gauge that is tested for accuracy, reliability, and quality, you can rest assured that it will serve you well for the foreseeable future.
There are three main types of tank gauges, and each of them works in its own unique way. For instance, the most common type is the highly affordable in-line pressure gauge works under pressure to let you know if your tank is full, empty, or your gas is running low.
On the other hand, analog or digital propane scales work by weighing the gas to determine how much is left. As you can see, the simple designs and ease of use of these devices make them extremely reliable when it comes to determining the levels of gas in your propane tank.
Final Verdict
If you have ever been frustrated by the unexpected depletion of gas while you were cooking or grilling, then you’ll be happy to know that these devices offer an affordable and convenient way of avoiding such disappointments in the future.
Use our review and buying guide to help you choose the best propane tank gauge that will offer reliable performance at an affordable price. With any of the devices on our list, you will have the peace of mind of no longer having to guess when it might be time to replace your tank.
Read Also:
