RV/Van Life Propane Usage Calculator
Created by: Ethan Brooks
Last updated:
Calculate your RV or van propane consumption based on your heating, cooking, and appliance usage. Estimate how long your tank will last and plan your refill schedule for worry-free off-grid adventures.
What is an RV/Van Life Propane Usage Calculator?
An RV/Van Life Propane Usage Calculator helps you estimate how much propane your camper, van, or RV will consume based on your appliances and usage patterns. Knowing your propane consumption helps you plan refills, budget for fuel costs, and avoid running out during a trip.
Whether you're heating your RV in winter, running a propane fridge, cooking meals, or heating water, this calculator accounts for all your propane appliances to give you accurate daily, weekly, and monthly consumption estimates.
Understanding RV Propane Usage
BTU Rating: Measure of heat output - higher BTU means more propane consumption
Propane Energy Content: 91,500 BTU per gallon of propane
Tank Sizes: Common sizes are 20lb (4.7 gal), 30lb (7 gal), and built-in tanks (20-40 gal)
Basic Formula: Gallons/Hour = Appliance BTU ÷ 91,500
Seasonal Variation: Winter heating can increase usage by 5-10x compared to summer
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a 20lb propane tank last in an RV?
A 20lb tank holds about 4.7 gallons of propane. For a typical RV using propane for cooking and water heating only, it lasts 2-4 weeks. With a propane furnace running frequently, it may only last 3-5 days in cold weather. Running a propane fridge adds about 1-2 lbs per day.
How much propane does an RV furnace use per hour?
RV furnaces typically use 20,000-35,000 BTU/hour, consuming about 0.5-1.0 gallons (2-4 lbs) of propane per hour when running. In cold weather with the furnace cycling frequently, expect to use 4-8 lbs of propane per day for heating alone.
Is it cheaper to use propane or electric heat in an RV?
When plugged into shore power (especially if included in campsite fees), electric heat is typically cheaper. Off-grid, propane is the primary option. Propane costs roughly $3-5 per gallon, providing about 91,500 BTU. Compare this to generator fuel costs when deciding for off-grid situations.
How much propane does an RV fridge use?
A propane RV fridge (absorption type) uses 1-1.5 lbs of propane per day (about 0.25-0.35 gallons). Newer models are more efficient. In a month, an RV fridge uses approximately 30-45 lbs of propane, though running on 12V DC when driving saves propane.
Can I use my propane tank below freezing?
Propane works down to -44°F, but tank pressure drops in cold weather, reducing flow rate. Below 20°F, keep tanks at least 30% full for adequate pressure. Propane tanks can freeze externally from moisture but the gas itself won't freeze in normal conditions.
How do I know when my propane tank is getting low?
Use a propane gauge, weighing scale, or the hot water test (pour warm water down the side and feel where it gets cold - that's the propane level). Most RVs have gauges on the tanks. Never rely solely on running out as a measurement method.
Should I turn off propane while driving my RV?
It's recommended to turn off propane while driving for safety, especially through tunnels where it's often required by law. Many people leave the fridge on propane while driving, but this carries some risk. Consider a 12V fridge or simply keep the fridge closed during drives.
How do I calculate propane usage for multiple appliances?
Add up the BTU ratings of each appliance, multiply by estimated hours of use, then divide by 91,500 BTU per gallon. For example: 30,000 BTU furnace × 4 hours + 6,000 BTU cooktop × 1 hour = 126,000 BTU/day = 1.38 gallons per day.
Sources and References
- Propane Education & Research Council, "BTU Content of Propane", propane.com
- RV Industry Association, "LP Gas System Standards", RVIA Technical Guidelines
- Dometic, "RV Appliance Specifications and BTU Ratings", dometic.com