If you have a propane cylinder at your home, you may have noticed the letters “WC” stamped on the side. You may be wondering what does WC mean on propane tank. WC stands for water capacity. This is the amount of liquid that the tank can hold. The average propane tank can hold about 250 gallons of water.
Propane is liquid when compressed, it turns into gas when released from the tank. The WC stamped on the collar of the tank indicates the maximum capacity the tank can contain.
When refilling propane tank, the gauge may read just 80% of the capacity because doing so gives enough room for the propane to expand inside the tank.
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What is propane tank water capacity (WC)
The water capacity of a propane tank refers to the amount of liquid that the tank can hold. This is an important factor to consider when selecting a propane tank, as a larger tank will be able to hold more fuel and provide a longer-lasting supply of propane. The water capacity of a propane tank is typically measured in gallons.
The water capacity of a propane tank can vary depending on the size and type of tank. For example, a small, portable propane tank may have a water capacity of 20 gallons, while a larger, stationary tank may have a water capacity of 500 gallons or more. The water capacity of a propane tank is typically marked on the tank itself, so you can easily determine how much fuel it can hold.
In general, the larger the propane tank, the higher its water capacity will be. Larger tanks are typically more expensive, but they provide a longer-lasting supply of propane and can save money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent refills.
It is important to choose the right size propane tank for your needs, taking into account factors such as the size of your home, your heating and cooking needs, and the availability of propane refill services in your area.
How to read propane tank markings
The collar of a propane tank has various markings that provide important information about the tank. To read these markings, you will need to understand the meaning of the various symbols and abbreviations used. Some common markings that you may find on the collar of a propane tank include:
- WC: This stands for “water capacity” and indicates the maximum amount of water that the tank can hold. This is typically measured in gallons.
- TW: This stands for “tare weight” and indicates the empty weight of the tank. This is the weight of the tank when it is empty, and it is typically measured in pounds.
- Serial number: This is a unique identification number that is assigned to the tank by the manufacturer. It is used to identify the tank and track its use and maintenance history.
- Manufacture date: This indicates the date when the tank was manufactured. It is typically marked as a four-digit year, such as 2021.
- Maximum pressure rating: This indicates the maximum pressure that the tank is designed to withstand. It is typically marked in pounds per square inch (psi).
- DOT: This stands for “Department of Transportation” and indicates that the tank meets the safety standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
By understanding the meaning of these markings, you can easily read the collar of a propane tank and learn important information about the tank. If you are unsure about the markings on your propane tank, it is best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or contact a qualified technician for assistance.
Water capacity of propane tank for residential use
The water capacity of a propane tank for residential use can vary depending on the size and type of propane tank. The most common type of propane tank for residential use is the 500-gallon tank. These tanks are typically made of steel and have a capacity of 500 gallons (1,893 L). Some 500-gallon tanks may be made of fiberglass, which will decrease the weight of the tank but will not decrease the overall water capacity. 500-gallon propane tanks are the most common size used for residential purposes. They are typically used to power furnaces, water heaters, dryers, and stoves. Each appliance uses a different amount of propane, so it is important to know how much your appliances use before selecting a propane tank size.
The water capacity of a propane tank is an important factor to consider when selecting a propane tank for residential use. A larger tank will be able to hold more fuel and provide a longer-lasting supply of propane. This can save money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent refills.
When choosing a propane tank for residential use, it is important to consider factors such as the size of your home, your heating and cooking needs, and the availability of propane refill services in your area. It is also important to consider the size and weight of the tank, as well as its location and the ease of access for refills and maintenance.
If you are unsure about the size and water capacity of the propane tank that is best for your home, it is best to consult a qualified technician for assistance. They can help you select the right size tank for your needs and ensure that it is installed and used safely and properly.
Water capacity of regular propane tank
The water capacity of a regular propane tank can vary depending on the size and type of tank. In general, regular propane tanks are available in a range of sizes, from small, portable tanks with a water capacity of 20 gallons or less, to larger, stationary tanks with a water capacity of 500 gallons or more.
The water capacity of a propane tank is an important factor to consider when selecting a propane tank. A larger tank will be able to hold more fuel and provide a longer-lasting supply of propane. This can save money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent refills.
When choosing a propane tank, it is important to consider factors such as the size and weight of the tank, as well as its location and the ease of access for refills and maintenance. It is also important to consider the intended use of the propane tank, as different tanks may be better suited to different applications.
If you are unsure about the size and water capacity of the propane tank that is best for your needs, it is best to consult a qualified technician for assistance. They can help you select the right size tank for your needs and ensure that it is installed and used safely and properly.
To summarize this
Now that you no longer wonder what does WC mean on propane tank, you now have the knowledge to choose the right size of tank for your application. Water capacity is one of important factors when purchasing tanks for your home use.


Mike is an experienced propane technician with over 15 years of professional experience in the field. He has dedicated his career to helping customers with their propane needs, from installation to maintenance and repair. Together with Jeremy, he co-founded this website to provide useful information and guidance to customers seeking reliable propane services.