Propane keeps your RV warm, powers your stove, and fuels your water heater—but accessing reliable delivery or refill options on the road (or stationary) requires knowing where to look and what to expect. Whether you're parked permanently or traveling between states, the propane landscape for mobile homes and RVs differs significantly from residential service. This guide breaks down your realistic options, typical costs, and how to avoid running empty at an inconvenient moment.
Where to Get Propane for Your RV or Mobile Home
Your propane source depends on your lifestyle and location. Stationary mobile homes connected to permanent propane tanks typically have a local delivery service, while traveling RVers rely on roadside propane exchanges, truck stops, and occasional fill-ups at fixed locations. If your RV or mobile home has a built-in onboard tank (common in most travel trailers and motorhomes), you'll need frequent refills; if it has multiple exchangeable bottles, you can swap them on demand.
Many RV owners use a combination of methods: scheduled bulk delivery for a stationary lot, emergency refills at truck stops when traveling, and propane exchanges at RV parks or retail outlets. The best strategy depends on your annual usage, travel patterns, and proximity to service providers.
Propane Exchange vs. Tank Refill: What's the Difference?
Propane exchange means you swap an empty portable tank for a pre-filled one at retailers like Walmart, Lowes, or RV supply shops. You pay a flat rate ($15–$25 per 20-pound bottle in most markets) without worrying about the exact weight refilled. This is fast, convenient, and requires no appointment.
Tank refill involves filling your existing tank at a propane service station, and you pay per pound—typically $1.50–$3.00 per pound depending on region, season, and market conditions. For a 20-pound tank, expect $30–$60. Refills are more economical if you refill frequently and less economical if you refill rarely (exchange pricing flattens costs). A 30-pound or 40-pound onboard RV tank might cost $45–$100 to refill completely.
Delivery Services for Stationary Mobile Homes
If your mobile home stays in one spot, scheduling propane delivery is often the most convenient option. A technician brings a tank truck to your property and refills your fixed tank; many providers offer automatic delivery based on tank level monitoring or seasonal schedules.
Typical delivery costs:
- Service fee: $15–$40 per delivery
- Propane price: $1.50–$3.50 per gallon (100-pound tanks hold roughly 25 gallons)
- Minimum delivery: often 30–50 gallons
A full refill of a 100-pound residential tank might run $50–$150 total, depending on your region and propane demand. Winter pricing is typically higher than summer. Ask your provider about budget billing plans, which average your costs over 12 months.
Key Factors When Choosing a Propane Provider
Availability and response time: Local independent propane dealers often respond faster than national chains but may have limited hours. National brands like AmeriGas or Ferrellgas offer broader coverage but may charge premium rates.
Pricing transparency: Request a written quote before committing. Some providers tie pricing to a published index; others use fixed rates. Understand whether you're locked into a contract term.
Tank ownership: Many delivery services require you to lease or own the tank. Leasing ($3–$5 monthly) is convenient; ownership eliminates ongoing fees but ties you to that provider if you want to avoid transfer charges.
Service area: RV propane refill networks vary by region. Before buying an RV with a large onboard tank, confirm regular refill availability along your planned routes.
Finding and Comparing Propane Providers
Start by searching online for "propane delivery near me" or "propane refill RV [your location]." Call 2–3 local providers to compare rates, delivery timelines, and contract terms. Platforms like Mercoly let you compare and find trusted propane and fuel delivery providers in one place, simplifying the selection process.
Check reviews on Google or Yelp for reliability and customer service. Ask current RV park or mobile home community residents which providers they use and whether they're satisfied.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I refill or exchange propane in my RV? A: Frequency depends on tank size, season, and usage. Many RV owners with 20-pound bottles refill or exchange every 2–4 weeks in cold months, longer in warm months. Monitor your tank gauge regularly.
Q: Can I travel across state lines with my propane tank? A: Yes, but regulations vary slightly by state. Never transport a tank inside a vehicle; secure it outside. Many states allow travel, but some require documentation or have inspection rules—contact your propane provider or state fire marshal's office before crossing borders.
Q: What's the safest way to store a spare propane tank for my mobile home? A: Store spare tanks upright, outdoors, away from high-traffic areas and heat sources, in a well-ventilated location at least 10 feet from doors and windows.
Compare propane providers today to lock in reliable, competitively-priced service for your RV or mobile home.