Hosting a Pool Party or BBQ? Don't Forget to Check Your Propane

June 4, 2026

Lifestyle

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What to Check Before Your Next Gathering

Picture this: your guests are arriving, the burgers are ready to go, and you hit the igniter only to find your propane supply is low. It's a scenario that's easy to avoid with a quick check a few days before the party. Here's what to look at.

Checking Your Propane Level

If you have a large residential propane tank, start by checking the tank gauge. Most tanks have a dial gauge on top that shows the percentage remaining. As a good rule of thumb for Will Call delivery service customers, order when your tank level reaches 30% or at least 7 business days before you anticipate needing propane.

For grill tanks, it's a little different. Most standard 20-lb cylinders don't have a traditional gauge, so you'll need another method to check the level. Ferrellgas has a helpful guide on how to check your propane tank level without a gauge, including a few easy at-home techniques. To ensure you don't run out, it’s always a good idea to keep a backup grill cylinder on hand.

Plan Ahead for Higher Propane Usage

Summer entertaining can mean using more propane than normal. A quick weeknight dinner on the grill uses far less propane than a four-hour cookout with multiple burners and appliances running at the same time. Connected appliances like patio heaters, outdoor kitchen burners, and fire pits can all draw propane at once. That heavier use may mean going through fuel more quickly. If you're hosting a large gathering, it’s smart to get an extra grill cylinder or schedule a propane tank refill ahead of time.

How Much Propane Do You Actually Need?

Propane usage depends on the appliances you're running and how long you're running them. The figures below are approximate and will vary based on British Thermal Units (BTU) output, temperature, and usage patterns. Use them as a planning guide, not a guarantee.

Grilling

A standard grill cylinder can power a mid-size grill for several hours of cooking, depending on heat level and how often the lid is opened. For longer cookouts or bigger gatherings, having a second cylinder on hand is a smart move.

Looking for grilling inspiration? Blue Rhino's recipe collection is a great place to start.

Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchens come in all shapes and sizes. A simpler setup might feature a rolling cart and a propane grill powered by a portable cylinder, while a larger build could include hardscaping, countertops, and a grill connected directly to your home's propane line. If you go the connected route, keeping an eye on your residential tank level before a big cookout is a smart habit.

Patio Heaters and Fire Pits

Portable propane patio heaters are easy to set up, and one 20-lb tank can power a heater for up to 10 hours. For a more permanent solution, ceiling-mounted infrared heaters connect directly to a propane line, keep walkways and floor spaces clear, and can be a cost-effective alternative to electric heaters in some settings. If you're planning an evening event, factoring in your tank level beforehand is a simple way to avoid an unexpected chill.

A man is cooking food on a propane-powered grill.

Residential Tanks and Grill Tanks: Know Your Refill Options

Summer entertaining can involve both a residential propane tank powering your outdoor kitchen and a portable 20-lb cylinder on the grill. Each one works a little differently when it comes to refilling, so here's what to know.

Residential Propane Tanks

Residential tanks are refilled through delivery from a propane supplier like Ferrellgas, not through retail exchange. Delivery options include:

Will Call delivery service: You monitor your tank level and place an order when you need a refill. Order when your tank level reaches 30% or at least 7 business days before you anticipate needing propane. When you're ready to request a refill from Ferrellgas, simply text ORDER to 573-207-5975*, log in to MyFerrellgas.com, or call 888-337-7355.
Auto Fill delivery service: For qualified customers, Ferrellgas schedules deliveries based on your usage so you don't have to track every fill manually. Qualification and active credit status are required for Auto Fill delivery service.

Grill Tanks (20-lb Cylinders)

When you're searching for a propane refill, Ferrellgas makes it easy to find your nearest location. Portable grill cylinders can be refilled at participating Ferrellgas locations or exchanged at Blue Rhino retailers.

Get a Propane Refill Before Your Guests Arrive

A great summer gathering starts with a little preparation, including making sure you have enough propane for the day’s events. A quick check before the party, a refill order placed ahead of time, and a backup plan for your grill tank are all it takes to keep things running smoothly from the first burger to the last s'more. Ferrellgas is here to make sure your summer stays fueled. Contact Ferrellgas today to connect with a Customer Service Professional who can help make sure you're set up for the season.

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