The best size of propane tank for a food truck will depend on a wide range of factors. However, food trucks are known to utilize propane tanks that fall between 20 to 100 pounds.
Note that a 20-pound tank is suitable for compact food trucks that have limited space, or those with smaller operations, or for occasional use.
Howbeit, for bigger food trucks or those with extensive cooking needs, a 40 to 100-pound tank will prove beneficial since it will provide more capacity and longer runtime between refills.
Factors That Determine the Right Size of Propane Tank for Food Truck
-
Cooking Equipment and Usage
You need to understand that the exact cooking appliances you use in your food truck will in many ways impact the amount of propane you need.
As such, it is important you carefully assess the amount of appliances you have to operate simultaneously during peak hours. Keep in mind that multiple appliances running concurrently will exhaust propane quickly.
Do not also forget that newer appliances tend to be more energy-efficient, and this entails that they utilize less propane for the same amount of cooking.
-
Space Constraints
You need to measure the available space inside or outside your food truck meant for propane tank storage. Very small or compact trucks will require smaller tanks, whereas bigger trucks will have more space and flexibility.
In all you do, do not neglect the importance of proper ventilation as well as complete conformance to safety codes when installing propane tanks.
-
Regulations and Compliance
Some regulations and laws guide food trucks to guarantee the safety of both staff and customers. However, it is important to note that different regions will possess varying regulations especially when it comes to the size and placement of propane tanks on commercial vehicles.
As such, it is recommended you carry out extensive research or reach out to local authorities or propane suppliers to have a valid insight into these regulations.
Full adherence to these safety standards is very essential. Tanks are expected to be certified, installed the right way, and undergo regular inspections to guarantee safe operation.
-
Operational Efficiency
Keep in mind that a bigger tank entails fewer refill trips, and this will further limit downtime as well as the associated expenses known to come with refueling.
Although bigger tanks will entail more cumbersome upfront costs, they are more cost-effective in the long run as a result of lower per-unit propane costs as well as reduced labor for refills. Don’t also forget to take into account future expansion plans.
If you intend to increase business volume in the future, then it is recommended you go with a larger tank now to align with your future growth.
-
Backup and Redundancy
Regardless of how certain you are about the size of your propane tank, it is always advisable you have a Plan B for your Plan A. Put in place a contingency plan to ensure you don’t have to deal with propane shortages or equipment malfunctions.
Most often, this will necessitate keeping a spare tank or coming up with a refill schedule to guarantee continuous operation. Be sure to first consider the exact place as well as how you will store backup tanks safely on the food truck.