Blackstone Griddle Propane Tank Size Guide: Complete 2026 Buying Guide
My Blackstone has seen hundreds of meals, and I’ve discovered Choosing the right propane tank size for your Blackstone griddle is crucial for uninterrupted cooking sessions and cost-effective grilling. Whether you’re hosting backyard gatherings or camping adventures, this comprehensive guide will help you select the perfect fuel solution for your specific needs and griddle model.
Understanding Propane Tank Sizes and BTU Calculations
Standard Propane Tank Capacities
Propane tanks are measured by weight capacity, not volume. Here’s what you need to know:
- 1-pound tanks: Contains approximately 21,600 BTUs of energy
- 5-pound tanks: Contains approximately 108,000 BTUs of energy
- 20-pound tanks: Contains approximately 432,000 BTUs of energy
Blackstone Griddle BTU Ratings by Model
Understanding your griddle’s fuel consumption is essential for calculating burn time:
- Blackstone 17″ (1-burner): 12,000 BTUs per hour
- Blackstone 22″ (2-burner): 24,000 BTUs per hour
- Blackstone 28″ (2-burner): 34,000 BTUs per hour
- Blackstone 36″ (4-burner): 60,000 BTUs per hour
Quick Burn Time Formula: Tank BTU Capacity ÷ Griddle BTU Rating = Maximum Hours of Use
Note: These calculations assume full heat operation. Most cooking uses medium heat (about 60-70% of max BTU), extending actual cooking time by 30-60%.
Best Propane Tank Options for Large Griddles (28″ and 36″)
Why Size Matters for High-BTU Griddles
Large Blackstone griddles are designed for serious cooking and entertaining. Their high BTU output demands adequate fuel capacity for practical use, especially when cooking for groups.
Realistic Burn Times (at full heat):
28-inch Griddle:
- 1-pound tank: 38 minutes (impractical for most cooking)
- 5-pound tank: 3.2 hours (good for 1-2 cooking sessions)
- 20-pound tank: 12.7 hours (multiple sessions or all-day events)
36-inch Griddle:
- 1-pound tank: 22 minutes (insufficient for most meals)
- 5-pound tank: 1.8 hours (single cooking session)
- 20-pound tank: 7.2 hours (several cooking sessions)
The 20-Pound Tank Advantage
For stationary home use, 20-pound tanks are the clear winner because they:
- Provide multiple cooking sessions without refilling
- Offer significantly better cost per BTU (approximately 50% cheaper than small tanks)
- Reduce inconvenient mid-cook fuel shortages
- Standard size at most retailers and refill stations
- Better pressure consistency throughout the tank’s life
Cost Comparison: 20-pound tanks typically cost $15-25 for refills, while 1-pound tanks cost $4-6 each. For equivalent BTU capacity, you’d need 20 small tanks costing $80-120 versus one large tank refill.
Optimal Tank Sizes for Portable Griddles (17″ and 22″)
Matching Tank Size to Your Cooking Style
Smaller Blackstone griddles offer flexibility in fuel selection based on your specific needs:
1-pound tanks excel for:
- Weekend camping trips
- Tailgating events
- Quick outdoor breakfast cooking
- Burn time: 1.8 hours (17″) / 0.9 hours (22″)
- Best for: 2-4 meals maximum
5-pound tanks work well for:
- Extended camping (3-7 days)
- Regular patio cooking
- Small family gatherings
- Burn time: 9 hours (17″) / 4.5 hours (22″)
- Best for: 10-15 meals
20-pound tanks are ideal for:
- Primary home outdoor cooking
- Large family gatherings
- Frequent entertaining
- Burn time: 36 hours (17″) / 18 hours (22″)
- Best for: 50+ meals
Portability Considerations
- 1-pound tanks: Ultra-portable at 2 pounds total weight, TSA-approved for air travel when empty
- 5-pound tanks: Manageable at 9 pounds when full, fits in most camping gear
- 20-pound tanks: Heavy at 37 pounds when full, require adapter hose and vehicle transport
Converting Your Blackstone Griddle to Natural Gas
Benefits of Natural Gas Conversion
Natural gas conversion can save frequent grillers $200-400 annually while providing unlimited fuel supply. Benefits include:
- Cost savings: Natural gas costs 50-70% less than propane per BTU
- Convenience: No tank refills, exchanges, or storage needed
- Consistent performance: Steady pressure and unlimited supply
- Environmental benefits: Natural gas burns cleaner than propane with lower carbon emissions
- Weather reliability: No pressure drops in cold weather
Compatible Models for Conversion
Can be converted (with official Blackstone conversion kit):
- 36-inch four-burner griddle
- 28-inch two-burner griddle
- Range-top Combo units
- Most Tailgater models
- Pro Series griddles
Cannot be converted:
- Air Fryer Combo units
- 22-inch Adventure Ready series
- 17-inch tabletop models
- Portable camping griddles
- E-Series electric griddles
Conversion Process and Costs
- Purchase conversion kit: $50-75 from Blackstone (includes new orifices and regulator)
- Professional installation: $100-200 (strongly recommended)
- Gas line installation: $200-500 if new line needed
DIY Installation Requirements:
- Gas line shutoff experience
- Proper leak detection tools and solutions
- Local permit compliance
- Insurance policy review (some void warranty for DIY gas work)
Always consult local codes and consider professional installation for safety and warranty compliance.
Essential Propane Accessories
20lb Propane Hose Adapter
This crucial accessory (around $25-35) allows connection of large tanks to any griddle:
- Length: 3-4 feet for safe distance from heat source
- Built-in regulator: Proper pressure control and safety shutoff
- Universal compatibility: Works with all Blackstone models
- Weather resistance: Outdoor-rated materials with UV protection
- QCC-1 connection: Modern hand-wheel connection for easy attachment
Propane Tank Gauges
Avoid mid-cook fuel shortages with these monitoring tools:
- Inline pressure gauges: $15-25, show real-time tank pressure
- Magnetic tank scales: $20-30, display remaining fuel by weight
- Smart tank monitors: $40-60, send alerts to your phone via Bluetooth
- Analog tank gauges: $10-15, simple dial showing fuel level
Must-Have Griddle Accessories for Optimal Performance
Cooking Tools ($50-75 total):
- Long-handled metal spatulas (2-3 different sizes for versatility)
- Griddle scraper for cleaning and moving food
- Squeeze bottles for oil and water application
- Infrared thermometer for accurate surface temperature monitoring
Protection and Maintenance ($75-150 total):
- Weather-resistant griddle cover (extends griddle life significantly)
- Griddle hood (creates oven effect and reduces cooking time)
- Disposable grease traps (easier cleanup)
- Cleaning kit with proper scrapers and griddle stones
Safety Equipment ($25-50 total):
- Heat-resistant gloves (rated for 500°F+)
- Protective apron with pockets
- Fire extinguisher rated for grease fires (Class K)
- First aid kit for minor burns
Making the Right Choice: Decision Framework
For Home Use (Patio/Deck Cooking)
- Best choice: 20-pound tanks with adapter hose
- Backup option: Keep 1-pound tanks for emergencies
- Consider: Natural gas conversion for frequent use (3+ times per week)
For Camping and RV Use
- Car camping: 5-pound tanks offer best balance of capacity and portability
- Backpacking: 1-pound tanks only (weight critical)
- RV travel: 20-pound tanks with secure storage and proper ventilation
For Tailgating and Events
- Game day: 1-pound tanks for ultimate portability
- All-day events: 5-pound tanks for extended cooking
- Catering: Multiple 20-pound tanks with adapters for professional use
Safety Considerations and Best Practices
Storage Requirements:
- Store tanks upright in ventilated areas (never in basements or enclosed spaces)
- Never store tanks in enclosed vehicles or garages
- Keep spare tanks away from heat sources and direct sunlight
- Check connections for leaks before each use with soapy water solution
Transport Guidelines:
- Secure tanks to prevent rolling or shifting
- Never transport tanks inside passenger compartments
- Ensure valve protection caps are installed during transport
- Follow local transportation regulations (some areas restrict quantities)
Connection Safety:
- Always connect tank before opening valve
- Open tank valve slowly and fully
- Never use tools to tighten hand-wheel connections
- Replace damaged hoses immediately
Cost Analysis: Total Ownership Considerations
Annual Fuel Costs (based on 50 hours of cooking):
Large Griddles (36-inch):
- 1-pound tanks: $600-900 annually (very expensive per BTU)
- 5-pound tanks: $350-450 annually (moderate cost)
- 20-pound tanks: $200-300 annually (most economical)
- Natural gas: $75-125 annually (best long-term value)
Small Griddles (17-inch):
- 1-pound tanks: $150-225 annually
- 5-pound tanks: $100-150 annually
- 20-pound tanks: $75-100 annually
Hidden Costs to Consider:
- Tank rental fees (if applicable)
- Transportation costs for refills
- Replacement costs for damaged or expired tanks
- Adapter hose purchases for different tank sizes
Maintenance Tips from Experience
After years of use, here’s what I’ve learned about keeping your equipment in top shape:
- Clean after every use – I scrape while it’s still warm, then wipe with oil. Takes 5 minutes and prevents 90% of problems.
- Season regularly – Even with non-stick surfaces, a thin oil coating after each use extends the life significantly.
- Cover when not in use – I learned this the hard way after my first griddle rusted. A $30 cover saves hundreds.
- Check connections monthly – I do a soapy water test on gas connections every month. It’s caught small leaks twice.
Conclusion
The optimal propane tank size depends on your specific cooking patterns, griddle model, and portability needs. For home use, 20-pound tanks provide the best value and convenience regardless of griddle size. Portable cooking benefits from 1-pound tanks for ultimate mobility or 5-pound tanks for extended sessions.
For serious grillers using large griddles frequently, natural gas conversion offers the best long-term value and convenience. Always prioritize safety with proper connections, storage, and handling practices.
Quick Reference:
- Maximum portability: 1-pound tanks
- Best value: 20-pound tanks with adapter
- Ultimate convenience: Natural gas conversion
- Balanced approach: 5-pound tanks for medium-duty use
With this guide, you’re equipped to make an informed decision that will enhance your Blackstone griddle experience for years to come. Remember to always follow manufacturer guidelines and local safety codes for the best and safest griddling experience. I wish I’d known this when I started.
