Dual propane tanks can be a nice convenience for all popup campers. Even if you can complete a camping trip on just one tank, having two tanks with an automatic regulator allows you to not worry about filling up before you leave – as long as at least one tank is showing full. Two tanks can also be an absolute necessity when boondocking for longer periods of time.
An automatic regulator provides ultimate convenience because you don’t have to switch tanks or hoses. Here’s how they work:
In the picture above, I have both tanks full and open. The regulator points to the tank on the right and the green indicator confirms that LP pressure exists (the tank isn’t empty).
Once the tank on the right runs out, the regulator automatically switches to the second tank and changes the indicator to red.
As I mentioned above, this convenience can apply to short term campers as well. I used to fill up my single tank before each trip. Otherwise, it was difficult to estimate how much propane I might have left. Now I can leave for each trip confident, knowing that at least one of my tanks is full, and filling both when the indicator goes red.
Here is my completed setup with the tool box on the right, dual 12v batteries on the left, and dual propane (LP) tanks in front.
Extra Credit
Some trailer tongues have difficulty accommodating two propane (LP) tanks. Your dealer might have some creative options for you, but here is one: use a 30-lb tank. Most bunk-end slides will clear the height of this larger tank, which provides you with 50% extra propane. It also lessens the tongue weight placed on your tow vehicle.
See also: Dual Batteries
Scott
I've been camping regularly since I was a kid, from quick Cub/Boy Scout trips to week-long backpacking trips and everything else in-between. We got a popup camper when our kids were 1 and 3 years old to enjoy more time outdoors together alongside a few conveniences like heat and running water. Since then, we've spent over 75 nights together as a family in our popup camper. I've learned a lot about the intricacies of a popup tent camper during this time and love to share those lessons here for the benefit of others.
8 comments
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Emily Bennette
November 14, 2020 at 4:04 am
Thanks for explaining that it would be smart to look into propane systems that have automatic regulators. Personally, I would want to look into a professional to help with installing dual propane tanks. That way, you know it is done properly.
Tamara Carroll
October 25, 2021 at 4:21 am
Do you turn the knob to the other tank when you know the right tank is empty? You said that you refill tanks when the indicator is red. The left side should have gas and you left the knob turned to the right tank. It automatically changed to the left tank. How do you know when the left tank is empty??
admin
October 27, 2021 at 5:01 pm
This depends on the dual LP regulator you use. With mine, I leave both LP tanks open. My LP regulator then does the switchover automatically and shows GREEN if the tank I have manually selected in the regulator is still flowing or RED if the tank I have selected is empty (or accidentally shut off) and the regulator is now pulling from the opposite side. This helps me understand when a tank is empty and needs to be refilled. Pretty easy!