Outdoor Blog

16.4 OZ Propane Cylinder – How Long Does It Last?

Published

4 years ago

January 13, 2021

16.4 oz. propane tanks are a common energy source for camping stoves and small portable propane heaters. Although they’re lightweight, convenient, and easy to use, these propane canisters frequently frustrate campers and hikers who can’t keep track of how much propane is left.

You can check how much propane is left in your tank in a couple of different ways. It’s essential to measure your current tank with one you know is full, though. If you want to keep track of your propane and avoid running out when you’re in the backcountry, understanding how long the tank lasts.

Read on to find out how much propane a 16.4 oz. tank holds, how long it lasts under certain conditions, and how you can make an educated guess about the amount left in your current tank!

A propane camping stove is a heater, coffeemaker, hand warmer, and cook station all in one.

1-pound vs 16.4 oz. propane tank

In case there’s any confusion: propane cylinders aren’t typically rated by the ounce, but rather by pounds. A 16.4 oz propane canister is more commonly referred to as a 1-pound propane tank. That ounce number is the net weight of the contents, so the propane inside the tank weighs about 16.4 ounces.

1-pound propane tanks are used to power camp stoves for grilling, frying, boiling, and pretty much anything else you could do on a conventional stovetop. You can also power portable heaters and propane lanterns with them.

How much propane is in a 1-pound propane tank?

Alright, so there’s 16.4 ounces of propane by weight inside one of these tanks, but how much is that? Thankfully, science is here to help us figure it out. Don’t worry, we won’t get into the complicated stuff.

The first thing you have to understand is a unit of measurement called BTUs, which stands for British Thermal Units. One BTU is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. If that sounds familiar, it’s because this is the U.S. equivalent of the metric calorie, which is the amount of heat required to heat one gram of water by one degree Celsius. Although it’s kind of a historical relic as far as measurements go, the BTU is still used to measure the sale of natural gas in the USA.

Propane has a BTU per gallon of 91,500. One gallon weighs about 4.23 pounds, so if we divide these two numbers we should be able to find out the BTU of a one-pound propane tank.

91,500 / 4.23 = 21,631 BTU per 1-lb propane tank

Fantastic, you might be saying. But how does that BTU amount translate into burn time for a portable camping stove?

How long does 1 BTU of propane last?

Since the larger one-gallon tank has more BTUs and therefore more propane, it’s not rocket science to deduce that it lasts longer than the smaller tank. So what is the connection between BTUs and burn time?

Let’s try to find the most convenient way to connect the two. You can’t very well count backward from 21,631 to keep track of how much propane you have. What throws most people off is that the size of the grill greatly impacts how long the propane bottle will last.

Thankfully, camp stoves don’t burn propane gas as fast as a large grill. A medium gas grill can burn through a 20-pound propane tank in as little as 10 hours, but it usually lasts 18 – 20 hours. A 20-pound tank has 4.73 gallons of propane. From this information, we can try to calculate a rough estimate of a per-BTU burn rate:

91,500 * 4.73 = 432,795 BTUs per 20-pound propane tank

You can also take a shortcut: multiply the BTU of a 1-pound tank by 20 and you’re not far off. If you’re using a medium gas grill and it lasts 18 hours, you can divide 432,795 by 18 to discover that roughly 24,000 BTUs are burnt per hour.

Burn rate for different propane accessories

If you’re using a backpacking stove rather than a full-on propane grill, that tank won’t have the same burn rate. The medium grill might have a burn rate of 24,000 BTUs per hour, but the smaller portable tank doesn’t.

Even a larger camping stove will have a higher burn rate than a single-eye backpacking model. Understanding how long that tank will last depends on how you’re using it. Of course, we don’t need to figure out the burn rate of a specific stove down to the decimal point.

One-pound propane tanks are perfect for cooking delicious meals on the go.

Burn rate for backpacking stoves

If we were to assume that a backpacking stove was as powerful, the 21,631 BTUs would last about 90% of one hour or 54 minutes. Generally speaking, though, your grill would have to be working pretty hard to burn the whole canister at that speed.

Your grill should have its own burn rate in the information that came with it. You can use that burn rate to find out how long the tank will last according to the manufacturer.

Campers who really want to understand their own equipment sometimes measure how long it takes to boil a fixed amount of water, say one liter. You can use this information to calculate how much fuel you’ll need once you know the burn rate.

Since these tanks aren’t that expensive, you can measure how long it takes to boil water and keep it cooking for the ten or 15 minutes needed to fully cook your meals, measure how many meals you get in before you run out, and then you’ll have a rough per-meal burn rate. You can also measure how long each meal takes to make if you want a more illustrative number.

How long do most 1-pound propane tanks last?

From our experience, you can expect these little tanks to keep working for between 1 and 2 hours of total burn time. The more you use high heat, the more propane you’ll burn and the less time it will survive before needing to be refilled.

Most backpacking stoves and small campsite cooking equipment will last right in the middle, around 1.5 hours, operating on a mid-high heat for boiling water and slightly reduced to cook it for 10 – 15 minutes. As a concrete example, this is right on the money for a Coleman propane tank used at medium heat for reasonable lengths of time.

Bear in mind that you don’t have to spend an hour on your camping meals. The tank isn’t going to go out after a single day on the trail. In most cases, freeze-dried meals and prepped meals that only need heating can be prepared in as little as 5 or 10 minutes, so you should be able to get at least 8 and as many as 18 meals out of one tank.

How can I make my propane last longer?

Reduce the amount of time your propane torch, grill, or heater is on a high or medium setting and you’ll be able to stretch out the life of the tank. Here are a few more tips to make your propane cylinder last:

Use Fire When Possible: Depending on where you’re camping, it might be easy to bring a firestarter and build a small campfire for boiling water and staying warm. The propane tank can be used as a backup or for stops during the day when you’re on the move or can’t otherwise make a fire.

Eat Freeze-Dried Meals: These meals take a very small amount of water. All you have to do is boil the water, add the contents of the packet, let it heat up for a few minutes, and you’re ready to chow down. If you don’t have the cash for tons of these meals, cheaper dehydrated veggies and other foods work the same way as these entire meals. Bring some packets of BBQ sauce if you’re worried about bland food.

Go Easy On Hot Drinks: Everybody loves a hot cup of coffee on a cold morning, but if you can’t build a small fire to boil water for your coffee or carry a dedicated coffee machine, it would be best to try and avoid too many cups. Rather than skipping cups altogether, you can try other methods like leaving your water in the sun to warm up so the propane has less work to do. Instant cold brew and iced coffee that can be made with cold water is another option.

Weather Conditions Have An Effect: Wind can blow the heat away from your stove. Low temperature lowers the volume of propane, and frigid temperatures might affect how well your propane fuel cylinder continues to work. Water boils faster at higher temperatures but food takes more time to absorb water.

Boil Water at 85% Capacity: The full power output of a propane stove will cause lots of heat to escape the cylinder at once. Most of that is probably just going to dissipate without having any measurable effect. When you’re boiling water or trying to heat something quickly, set the dial about 15% lower than the full setting to get it working quickly without wasting too much fuel.

Does propane go bad?

Great news if you’re worried about using your propane before it disappears: propane doesn’t expire. If your tank has been sitting somewhere dry and relatively warm through the winter, it should be alright to use it whenever you want. In fact, the propane can probably last much longer than that. Steel tanks can rust through and allow propane to leak out through the side. If a tank shows rust, don’t use it. It could also be empty due to a leak, but testing it could be dangerous if the tank isn’t completely empty.

The most important thing you can do to keep your propane audible even if it’s going to be sitting around for a little while is to make sure you use any protective cap that came with the model when it isn’t in use. Ideally, these tanks should be stored outdoors and completely away from any water that could cause rust.

Can you refill propane tanks?

Some Coleman propane fuel cylinders and similar models from competing brands come in refillable models with a special adapter that allows them to take more propane. Even if you have a refillable tank, return it to a professional who can top it off for you.

There are many tips and tricks on the internet for refilling a disposable propane tank. Something about the small size of these tanks makes people think it’ll be alright to doctor them.

In some cases, that might be the case. But it’s a huge risk that’ll only save you a few bucks in the end. Plus, even if you do get the tank refilled without blowing yourself up, the law in many places makes it illegal to transport that tank on any public roadway. You’re better off with a brand new tank.

What should I do with old propane tanks?

Once the propane is out, these canisters are considered household hazardous waste and must be taken to an approved disposal center near you. A quick google search can tell you where that might be based on your location.

Don’t ever throw these things in the trash or leave them outside anywhere. They’re still pressurized and present a danger to people. Plus, it’s a pretty large piece of trash to just leave lying around.

How to measure how much propane is left

If you don’t know how much is left inside the canister and you really don’t want to burn the rest off, you can use one of the following tricks:

Weigh Your Propane Tank & An Empty One: The difference should be the weight of the remaining propane. Weigh the tank when you first get it so you can see what percentage of the full weight you have. If you don’t have an empty tank, the ‘tare weight,’ which is the weight of the tank itself, should be written on the tank or in the information pamphlet. The difference between the tare weight and what you see on the scale should be the weight of the remaining propane.

Place the Tank in Water: When a full tank is in water, it sinks lower down but it still floats. You can place your tank in water and watch how it floats to gauge how much propane is left. As the water line is lower on the tank (or the tank is higher in the water, however you want to look at it) you can see your propane supply decreasing. It might not give you a precise number, but it should give you a relative indication.

Safety tips for camping with propane tanks

The main safety tips we’ve already discussed is to never, ever try to refill a disposable propane tank and don’t throw them away in the trash can.

When you’re cooking with a small propane cooking stove, watch your sleeves, feet, sleeping bag, or anything else that might get burnt. The wind is another huge consideration. It’s probably not wise to leave a propane tank burning inside your tent unless it has the necessary safety features to do that without burning the whole place down.

If you’re in a tent with low ventilation, you might want to use the propane tank to heat up hand warmers or just take the edge off before your body heat can warm up the inside of your sleeping bag. Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of propane tanks and without the right escape route, those fumes can have some terrible effects.

Safety is important when using a portable propane tank.

Final Verdict:

Propane is a great power source for cooking, heating, or lighting your way through the backcountry. Many campers can only rely on guesswork to plan on when their propane tanks will run out, though.

A one-pound propane tank should last for 1.5 hours of burn time. How you use the tank and the environmental conditions will affect how long this time truly is. It might be 2 hours or only one hour.

Now that you know how you can stretch out the life of your propane tanks and how to dispose of them once the fuel has run out, you can start to enjoy coffee and hot meals on the hiking trail or at a campsite without building a fire. We recommend a trustworthy refillable one so you can create less waste.

Bonus tip: Cook these 5 easy backpacking meal recipes on your propane stove on your next camping trip!

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

4 weeks ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

2 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

4 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.