LP Gas Cylinder

What size LP gas cylinders fit most RVs?

Most travel trailers and fifth wheels use either 20 lb (DOT) or 30 lb (DOT) vertical propane cylinders mounted on the A-frame or in a forward storage compartment. Motorhomes typically use ASME horizontal tanks that are permanently mounted and refilled in place. Check the collar stamp and tare weight on your existing cylinder before ordering to confirm capacity and valve type (OPD is required on all DOT cylinders manufactured after 1998).

Are these LP cylinders shipped pre-filled?

No. All LP gas cylinders ship empty per DOT hazmat regulations. You will need to fill the cylinder at a local propane supplier, U-Haul, Tractor Supply, or RV park before first use. New DOT cylinders also require purging before the initial fill, your propane dealer will handle this as part of the fill process.

What valve type do these LPG tanks use?

The DOT cylinders in this collection use a Type 1 (ACME/QCC-1) connection with an Overfill Protection Device (OPD), which is the current standard for RV propane systems and matches the female POL/ACME fitting on your regulator pigtail. If your rig still has older POL-only pigtails, you can either replace the pigtail or use a POL-to-ACME adapter. Browse compatible regulators and pigtails in our RV electronics and components collection.

How long will a 20 lb or 30 lb propane bottle last in an RV?

A 20 lb cylinder holds roughly 4.6 gallons (about 430,000 BTU) and a 30 lb cylinder holds about 7 gallons (around 650,000 BTU). Real-world runtime depends on which appliances are drawing: a 30,000 BTU furnace running continuously will empty a 20 lb bottle in about 14 hours, while a refrigerator on LP averages 1,400 BTU/hr and can run more than two weeks on the same tank. For winter use, pair your cylinders with our RV winterizing kits to protect the rest of the LP-fed plumbing.

Do you ship LP gas cylinders to all states?

Yes, empty DOT propane cylinders ship via standard ground freight to all 48 contiguous states. Orders over $100 ship free. If you need help confirming cylinder size, valve compatibility, or mounting fit for your specific rig, text or call our team at 817-984-1852.