Amount of Propane Per Batch

[cramar]

Hey all, slowly migrating to all grain BIAB with the intent on moving everything outside. Researching, designing a modest system and buying things when/where I can.

Just wondering, in terms of doing a single pot BIAB with a final volume of 6 gallons how long would a standard propane tank last (assuming a 20lb tank is the norm). THis would include heating up and 60 minute boils.

Just curious as to a rough idea since I basically have no clue. 2 batches, 5 batches, 10 batches, etc.
Wondering it a larger propane tank (or multiple 20lb'rs) is warranted.

Thanks

 

[Snicklefritz]

My best guess is somewhere between 2-3 lbs per brew. A few weeks ago I was worried about running out during a brew so I weighed the tank first and figured there to be about 4# in there. Afterwards I weighed it again and there was about 2 lbs. I did the heating of strike/sparge water on my stove to conserve gas though so probably add a bit to that for biab. Although these numbers all probably have something to do with how efficient your burner is as well. I use a standard turkey fryer burner.

 

[Komocabo]

I get about 2 batches out of mine. I brew 12 gal batches. I think I would get a solid 3 when I did 5 gal batches.

I use the 12" banjo burners

 

[Jayhem]

Depends on the burner as they very in efficiency. The most efficient burner I've heard of is the one I'm currently using the Bayou Classic SQ14. I do 11 gallon batches all-grain including heating strike and sparge water and I easily do 4 batches (44 gallons!) on one 20lb tank!

 

[cramar]

Sounds good, thanks for the input.

 

[dilvish]

Here's a link that may give you a more precise answer. Of course your mileage may vary...

http://hubpages.com/hub/Calculating-How-Long-Your-BBQ-Propane-Tank-Will-Last

 

[mtnagel]

I get about 2 batches out of mine. I brew 12 gal batches. I think I would get a solid 3 when I did 5 gal batches.

I use the 12" banjo burners

Wow, that seems really low.

I did thirteen 3-5 gal batches since the last time I filled my tank, but I have 2 tanks, so the other had some propane too and I also used them to grill at least 10 times last year.

 

[C-Rider]

Regardless of how much U get per tank. ALWAYS have a FULL tank on the side ready to go.

 

[krackin]

Draw your water prior to starting your brewing to get it at least to room temp. There is quite a difference between 40* water and 70* water which is obvious but overlooked. I heat mine starting the night before beside Ol' Potbelly in the winter and start off at 100* or so. I'm still on a 20# after 7 @ 6.5 to 7.5 gallon batches.

 

[Scutrbrau]

I haven't measured yet but I know I'm getting a lot more out of a tank since I got my Blichmann burner compared to the Bayou I was using.

 

[Foosier]

Definitely depends on the burner. I have a jet burner and it guzzles propane. I get maybe 2-3 brews per tank.

 

[bhanson]

Depends on the burner and boil time. I average about 5 batches per cylinder before refilling. Sometimes 4, sometimes 6.