How to Order a Gauge: Your Complete Guide to Ordering the Right Propane Tank Gauge
In this guide: Everything you need to know about how to order a gauge - covering what type of gauge to order for your propane tank or cylinder, where to buy one (suppliers, hardware stores, online), what information you need before ordering, how to find the correct gauge for your tank model, whether to replace the existing gauge or add an aftermarket monitor, installation basics, and answers to the most common questions about ordering propane tank gauges.
How to Order a Gauge - Quick Answer
To order a propane tank gauge, you first need to identify what kind of gauge you need: a replacement float gauge for a large above-ground tank (120 gallon and up), an aftermarket sensor for a cylinder or tank without a built-in gauge, or a digital platform scale. For a large tank gauge replacement, contact your propane supplier directly - they stock the correct gauge for your tank model. For a 20 lb, 30 lb, or 100 lb cylinder, order a Bluetooth ultrasonic sensor (Mopeka Pro Check $50–$80) online or at a hardware store - it magnetically attaches to the tank and works on any cylinder. Before ordering, know your tank size, tank brand, and whether your tank has an existing gauge or not. Do not guess the gauge model - provide your tank's brand and capacity to your supplier for the correct replacement.
Bottom line: For large tanks, call your propane supplier. For cylinders, order a Bluetooth sensor online. Know your tank size and brand before you order.
What Type of Gauge Do You Need?
First, Identify Your Situation
| Your Situation | Gauge Type to Order |
|---|---|
| Large home tank (120–500 gal) with broken built-in gauge | Replacement float gauge from your supplier |
| Small cylinder (20 lb BBQ, 30 lb RV) with no gauge | Aftermarket Bluetooth sensor (Mopeka Pro Check) |
| Large home tank (120–500 gal) with no gauge (uncommon) | Check with supplier - may need tank model |
| 100 lb cylinder with no gauge | Mopeka Pro Check or digital scale |
| Want remote monitoring + existing dial | Bluetooth/cellular add-on sensor |
| Want the easiest level check for any tank | Bluetooth sensor (universal) |
The most important first step is identifying what type of gauge your tank needs. Ordering the wrong type wastes time and money. If your large home tank has a built-in dial and you need to replace it, you need a tank-specific replacement. If your cylinder has no built-in gauge, you need an aftermarket sensor - not a replacement dial.
Where to Order Each Type of Gauge
Option 1: Your Propane Supplier
| What They Provide | Detail |
|---|---|
| Replacement float gauges | Gauge specific to your tank model and brand |
| Tank-specific compatibility | Correct size, thread, and specifications |
| Installation included | Technician installs; ensures proper sealing |
| Warranty protection | Usually covered under service agreement |
| Best for | Large above-ground tank gauge replacement |
For large home tanks (120 gallon to 1,000 gallon), your propane supplier is the best source for a replacement gauge. They stock the correct model for common tank brands (Manchester, Ameri-Gas, Suburban, Flame, etc.) and can send a technician to install it. This is not a generic part - the gauge must match your tank's brand, size, and connection specifications.
Option 2: Hardware Stores and Home Centers
| Store | Products Available | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Home Depot / Lowe's | Inline pressure gauges, some float gauges, Mopeka sensors | DIY gauge accessories |
| Tractor Supply | Float gauges for farm tanks, inline gauges | Farm and rural propane setups |
| Local hardware stores | Varies; may stock common inline gauges | Quick local purchase |
| Propane equipment suppliers | Full range; online and phone orders | Specialty and commercial gauges |
For simple inline pressure gauges and accessories, hardware stores are convenient. For a full replacement float gauge on a large tank, most hardware stores do not stock the correct model - your supplier is more reliable.
Option 3: Online Retailers
| Retailer | What to Order | Delivery |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Mopeka Pro Check, Mopeka Tank Check 2, scales | 1–2 day delivery |
| Mopeka Direct | Full Mopeka product line | Manufacturer direct |
| Propane Appliance Parts sites | Inline gauges, fittings, accessories | 3–7 day delivery |
| Grainger / MSC Industrial | Industrial gauges, commercial options | Fast commercial delivery |
For Bluetooth sensors (Mopeka) and digital scales, Amazon and manufacturer websites offer the best selection and fastest delivery. For a large tank replacement gauge, online ordering from a propane equipment supplier is possible but requires knowing your exact tank model - call your supplier first to confirm the part number.
What Information You Need Before Ordering
Checklist of Required Information
| Information | Why You Need It | Where to Find It |
|---|---|---|
| Tank size (gallons) | Determines gauge type and capacity | Stamped on tank collar or plate |
| Tank brand / manufacturer | Gauge must match tank brand | Stamped on tank collar or plate |
| Tank model number | For exact gauge part number | On tank plate |
| Existing gauge type | Float, inline, digital? | Inspect current gauge |
| Connection type | Thread size and type (NPT, etc.) | On valve or existing gauge |
| Existing gauge broken? | Determines replacement vs. add-on | Visual inspection |
| Cylinder type | 20 lb, 30 lb, 100 lb | Stamped on cylinder collar |
| Tare weight (TW) | For cylinder weighing reference | Stamped on cylinder collar |
Where to Find Tank Information
| Location | What Is Stamped There |
|---|---|
| Tank collar | Brand, TW (tare weight), WC (water capacity), manufacture date |
| Tank plate | Model number, serial number, MAWP (maximum allowable working pressure) |
| Tank body | ASME certification number |
| Cylinder collar | TW, WC, manufacturer, DOT rating |
Never order a gauge without confirming the tank brand and size first. The wrong gauge can be the wrong thread size, wrong pressure rating, or wrong mechanism - none of which work correctly and some of which are safety hazards.
Ordering a Gauge for a Large Home Tank
Step-by-Step Large Tank Gauge Ordering
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Identify that your built-in gauge is broken or inaccurate |
| 2 | Find your tank brand and size (collar or plate) |
| 3 | Call your propane supplier's service line |
| 4 | Give them: tank brand, tank size, tank model/serial if available |
| 5 | Describe the gauge problem (stuck, missing, inaccurate) |
| 6 | Ask if they stock the replacement or need to order it |
| 7 | Schedule a service call for installation |
| 8 | Confirm cost: parts + labor + service call fee |
What Your Supplier Will Ask
| Question | Why |
|---|---|
| What brand is your tank? | Different brands use different gauge fittings |
| What size is the tank? | Affects gauge specifications |
| What is the problem with the gauge? | Confirms replacement vs. repair needed |
| Is this a rental or owned tank? | May affect who pays for the replacement |
| Are you on automatic delivery? | Supplier relationship may affect pricing |
Important: If your tank is rented from your supplier, the gauge replacement may be covered under your rental agreement - ask before paying for a parts-only order. Owned tanks are the homeowner's responsibility for maintenance.
Cost to Replace a Large Tank Gauge
| Item | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Replacement float gauge (parts) | $25–$60 |
| Service call / labor | $75–$150 |
| Total typical cost | $100–$210 |
| With rental tank warranty | Often $0 (covered) |
Ordering a Gauge for a Cylinder (BBQ, RV, Forklift)
For Cylinders Without Built-In Gauges
The best option for any cylinder (20 lb BBQ, 30 lb RV, 5 lb camping, 100 lb) is a Bluetooth ultrasonic sensor - it adds a gauge where none exists and works on every cylinder size.
Top Recommended Sensors to Order
| Product | Price | Works On | Connectivity | Battery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mopeka Pro Check | $50–$80 | All cylinders 5–100 lb | Bluetooth (phone app) | 2×AA; 1–2 years |
| Mopeka Tank Check 2 | $40–$60 | All cylinders 5–100 lb | Bluetooth (phone app) | 2×AA; 1–2 years |
| Mopeka Universal | $60–$90 | All cylinders + tanks | Bluetooth (phone app) | 2×AA; 1–2 years |
Where to Order Online
| Retailer | Availability | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Mopeka full line; in stock | 1–2 days |
| Mopeka.com | Manufacturer direct; full support | 3–5 days |
| Home Depot | Mopeka Pro Check; some stores | Same-day or 2-day |
| Walmart | Mopeka sensors | 2–5 days |
What to Order for Each Cylinder Type
| Cylinder | Recommended Gauge to Order | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 20 lb BBQ tank | Mopeka Tank Check 2 or Pro Check | $40–$80 |
| 30 lb RV tank | Mopeka Pro Check (magnetic mount) | $50–$80 |
| 5 lb camping cylinder | Mopeka Tank Check 2 (small magnet) | $40–$60 |
| 100 lb cylinder | Mopeka Pro Check | $50–$80 |
| Any cylinder (budget) | Digital platform scale | $15–$40 |
Digital Platform Scales: The No-Sensor Alternative
What to Order for Simple Level Checking
| Product | Price | How It Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bathroom or kitchen scale | $15–$30 | Weigh cylinder; subtract TW | Any cylinder |
| Extech TB400 Grill Scale | $25–$35 | Digital; designed for tanks | BBQ owners |
| ChUG Tank Scale | $20–$30 | Designed for 20 lb tanks | BBQ owners |
| Humboldt HCU-203 Digital Scale | $30–$50 | High accuracy; heavy duty | Commercial/rural |
A simple digital platform scale costs $15–$40 and works for any cylinder. Place the tank on the scale, subtract the tare weight (TW) stamped on the collar, and divide by 4.24 to get gallons. No sensor, no Bluetooth, no app - just a number on a screen. This is the best budget option for occasional checking.
Can You Install a Propane Tank Gauge Yourself?
DIY vs. Professional Installation
| Gauge Type | DIY Possible? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth sensor (Mopeka) | ✅ Yes - magnetic mount | Attaches in seconds; no tools |
| Digital platform scale | ✅ Yes - place and weigh | Zero installation |
| Inline pressure gauge | ⚠️ Maybe - depends on fitting | Requires wrench; correct thread |
| Replacement float gauge (large tank) | ❌ No - licensed technician | Pressurized system; safety risk |
| Tank valve replacement | ❌ No - licensed technician | Pressurized system; requires certification |
For large home tanks, the gauge is part of a pressurized system. Replacing it requires depressurizing the tank, removing the old gauge, installing the new one with proper sealing, and repressurizing and testing - this is not a DIY job. For Bluetooth sensors and scales, installation is straightforward and requires no professional.
What If Your Propane Supplier Does Not Stock the Gauge?
When the Supplier Cannot Help
| Option | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Order from propane equipment supplier | Search for: "[Tank Brand] propane gauge replacement" |
| Order from tank manufacturer | Most manufacturers sell parts through distributors |
| Order from industrial supply (Grainger, MSC) | Stock commercial and industrial gauges |
| Order generic ASME float gauge | Only if specs match; verify before ordering |
| Consider an aftermarket sensor instead | Mopeka/Generac work with any tank |
When ordering online for a large tank, be precise about the tank brand, model, and connection type. An ASME-certified float gauge from one manufacturer may not fit a tank from another. When in doubt, send a photo of your existing gauge and tank plate to the supplier before ordering.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Gauge?
Delivery and Service Timelines
| Gauge Type | Where to Order | Time to Get |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth sensor (Mopeka) | Amazon / Home Depot | 1–2 days |
| Bluetooth sensor (Mopeka) | Mopeka.com | 3–5 days |
| Digital platform scale | Amazon / Walmart | 1–2 days |
| Inline pressure gauge | Hardware store | Same day / 2-day |
| Large tank float gauge (supplier) | Your propane supplier | 3–7 days; service call scheduled |
| Large tank float gauge (online) | Propane equipment supplier | 5–10 days |
For an emergency gauge issue on a large tank, call your supplier first - they can often send someone same-day or next-day for urgent situations. For cylinder monitoring, a Bluetooth sensor ordered on Amazon arrives within 1–2 days and installs in seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I order a propane tank gauge?
For a large home tank gauge: call your propane supplier and give them your tank brand, size, and model number. They order and install the correct replacement gauge. For a cylinder (20 lb BBQ, 30 lb RV, 100 lb): order a Mopeka Pro Check ($50–$80) from Amazon or Home Depot - it magnetically attaches and sends level readings to your phone. For any cylinder without a sensor: a digital platform scale ($15–$40) provides level checking by weighing.
Q2: Can I order a replacement gauge online?
Yes - for large tank float gauges, order from a propane equipment supplier online (provide tank brand, model, and connection type). For Bluetooth sensors and scales, Amazon, Home Depot, and Walmart all carry them with 1–2 day delivery. For large tank gauge replacements, verify the part number with your supplier before ordering online.
Q3: How much does a propane tank gauge cost?
| Gauge Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth sensor (Mopeka Pro Check) | $50–$80 |
| Digital platform scale | $15–$40 |
| Inline pressure gauge | $15–$30 |
| Large tank replacement float gauge (parts) | $25–$60 |
| Large tank service call + install | $75–$150 |
| Large tank total (supplier) | $100–$210 |
Q4: Can I install a propane tank gauge myself?
For Bluetooth sensors and digital scales: yes - they require no tools and install in seconds. For inline pressure gauges: possibly, if you have the right fittings and wrenches and the connection matches. For replacement float gauges on large home tanks: no - a licensed propane technician must install it due to the pressurized system and safety requirements.
Q5: Does my propane supplier provide gauges?
Yes - your propane supplier stocks replacement gauges for common large tank brands and sends a technician to install them. For cylinders, suppliers typically do not provide gauges but may offer tank monitors as part of a service plan. Ask your supplier about their gauge and monitoring options.
Q6: What information do I need to order a propane tank gauge?
Before ordering, know: your tank size (gallons), tank brand and model number, whether you need a replacement or an add-on sensor, and your connection type. For cylinders: any Mopeka sensor works on any cylinder from 5 lb to 100 lb - no brand-specific matching needed. For large tanks: gauge must match tank brand and model.
Q7: How long does it take to get a propane tank gauge?
Bluetooth sensors and digital scales arrive in 1–2 days from Amazon or Home Depot. A large tank replacement gauge from your supplier takes 3–7 days plus scheduling a service call. An online order for a tank-specific gauge takes 5–10 days. For urgent situations on large tanks, call your supplier for same-day or next-day service.
Q8: Should I replace my tank gauge or add a sensor?
Do both. Keep your existing built-in gauge (for visual, no-battery checking) and add a Bluetooth sensor on top of it for remote monitoring and low-gas alerts. A Mopeka Pro Check or Generac G0070090 sits alongside your existing dial and gives you a second, temperature-compensated reading on your phone. The sensor does not replace the dial - it supplements it.
The Bottom Line: How to Order a Gauge
Ordering the right propane tank gauge depends on your tank type. For large home tanks (120 gallon+) with a broken built-in gauge, call your propane supplier - they order the correct brand-specific replacement and send a technician to install it ($100–$210 total). For any cylinder (20 lb BBQ, 30 lb RV, 100 lb) without a built-in gauge, order a Mopeka Pro Check ($50–$80) from Amazon or Home Depot for Bluetooth level monitoring. For the simplest budget option, order a digital platform scale ($15–$40) that weighs any cylinder. Before ordering, know your tank size, brand, and whether you need a replacement or an add-on sensor. Bluetooth sensors are universal and install in seconds; large tank float gauges require professional installation.
Key takeaways:
| Takeaway | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| ✅ Large tank gauge → call supplier | Brand-specific; professional install |
| ✅ Cylinder gauge → Mopeka sensor | Universal; magnetic mount; $50–$80 |
| ✅ Budget option → digital scale | $15–$40; weighs any cylinder |
| ✅ Know tank brand + size first | Wrong gauge = wrong fit |
| ✅ Sensor + existing dial = best | Two monitoring methods |
| ✅ Amazon = 1–2 day delivery | Fastest for sensors |
| ✅ Large tank gauge install = pro only | Pressurized system |
| ✅ Mopeka sensor = DIY install | Magnetic mount; seconds |
| ✅ Bluetooth sensor = universal | Works on any cylinder |
| ✅ Supplier for urgent large tank | Same/next-day service available |
Remember:
Large tank (120 gal+): call your propane supplier
Cylinder (20/30/100 lb): Mopeka sensor from Amazon
Budget: digital platform scale $15–$40
Always know tank brand and size before ordering
Gauge must match tank brand for large tanks
Mopeka Pro Check = $50–$80; works on any cylinder
Bluetooth sensor install = seconds; no tools needed
Large tank gauge install = licensed technician only
Inline pressure gauge = DIY possible; verify threads
Amazon / Home Depot = 1–2 day sensor delivery
Supplier stock = 3–7 days + service call scheduling
Rental tank = ask supplier if gauge replacement is covered
Sensor + existing dial = best of both worlds
Mopeka app shows % and gallons; sets low-gas alert
Tank plate = model, serial, MAWP, brand info
Collar = TW (tare weight), WC (water capacity)
Online gauge order: verify part number with supplier first
Digital scale: weigh, subtract TW, divide by 4.24
Propane equipment suppliers: stock commercial gauges
Grainger / MSC: industrial and specialty gauges
Emergency large tank: call supplier for same-day service
Sensor on cylinder = adds the gauge that was missing
Know your tank, know your option, and know your order. The right gauge for every propane tank is one step away.
Last updated: July 2026
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about ordering propane tank gauges for educational purposes. Gauge installation on large pressurized tanks must be performed by a licensed propane technician. Always follow your propane supplier's guidance, NFPA 58 regulations, and manufacturer instructions. Propane is a combustible fuel - use proper safety practices and consult your supplier for guidance on tank maintenance and monitoring.
