What Size Propane Tank Does a Blackstone Need?

On this page (9 sections)

1. What gas bottle do Blackstone griddles use?
2. How do you choose a tank size?
3. Can you use a 20 lb propane tank?
4. Can a small propane cylinder power a Blackstone?
5. Can you convert a Blackstone to natural gas?
6. What else can you use for outdoor cooking?
7. How do you connect and light a Blackstone?
8. How long does a propane tank last on a Blackstone?
9. What should you check before buying a propane bottle?

Most Blackstone griddles use liquid propane, but the right gas bottle depends on the model and its connection. Check your griddle's manual or label to see whether it takes a small disposable cylinder or connects to a refillable tank.

The regulator and hose must also match the griddle. Choose a tank only after confirming the approved setup for your model.

What gas bottle do Blackstone griddles use?

Blackstone griddles use the propane bottle or tank specified for that model. Portable models may use small disposable cylinders, while other models may connect to a larger refillable tank.

Check the model number and fuel instructions before buying or connecting a bottle. If you aren't sure which model you have, find the label on the griddle or look up the manual by model number.

A fitting that seems to connect isn't proof of compatibility. Use only the connection setup approved for your griddle.

Our guide to whether a Blackstone grill uses propane explains the fuel question in more detail.

How do you choose a tank size?

Choose the tank size named in your model's instructions, then confirm that its regulator and hose match. A larger tank can hold more fuel, but it won't work just because an adapter can attach.

Think about portability, too. For one portable Blackstone example, see how much a 17-inch Blackstone weighs.

A small cylinder is easier to carry for a compact setup, while a refillable tank can suit a stationary outdoor cooking area if your model supports it.

Before you connect anything, check:

• The griddle model and its approved fuel
• The allowed cylinder or tank size
• The regulator type and hose connection
• Whether the setup needs a specific adapter
• The instructions for checking connections before lighting

If the manual doesn't answer a connection question, ask Blackstone for guidance using the model number. Don't rely on a hose or adapter description alone.

Can you use a 20 lb propane tank?

You can use a 20 lb tank only if your Blackstone model supports that tank and connection. Check the manual for the approved tank, regulator and hose before connecting it.

A bigger tank may be less convenient to move, so consider where you'll store it and how you'll transport it. If you're planning a larger setup, check the 36-inch Blackstone griddle weight before choosing where to place it.

Keep the tank upright and follow its instructions and local safety guidance.

Never force a connection or remove parts to make different fittings work together. If you're comparing setups for another kind of gas grill, see our guide to what size propane tank you need for a gas grill.

Can a small propane cylinder power a Blackstone?

A small cylinder can power a Blackstone when the griddle is designed for that type of cylinder. Confirm the cylinder and connection in the model's instructions first.

This option can make sense when carrying a refillable tank is inconvenient. Check the cylinder's instructions for storage and handling, and keep spare fuel away from heat and ignition sources.

Some griddles require a refillable tank or a different connection. If your model does, don't try to make a small cylinder fit with an unapproved adapter.

Can you convert a Blackstone to natural gas?

A Blackstone should be converted to natural gas only if Blackstone approves a conversion for your exact model. Propane and natural gas setups can require different parts and operating conditions.

Check the manufacturer's instructions before buying conversion parts or changing the fuel connection. Our guide, Can A Blackstone Grill Be Converted To Natural Gas?, covers what to verify.

What else can you use for outdoor cooking?

For a portable propane option, the Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill uses liquid propane and has folding legs and 190 sq in of cooking space. If you want both cooking surfaces in one unit, compare gas grill and griddle combos.

The Lodge Round Seasoned Cast Iron Griddle is compatible with grills and camp stoves, as well as stovetops and ovens. For a larger outdoor cooking surface, compare stainless steel flat-top griddles.

It comes pre-seasoned and is 10.5 in round.

The Presto 07046 Tilt 'n Drain Big Griddle is electric, so it doesn't use a propane bottle. It has a ceramic nonstick cooking surface and a slide-out drip tray.

How do you connect and light a Blackstone?

Connect the approved tank, hose and regulator according to your griddle's manual. Follow the model's lighting steps and check the connections as directed before use.

Don't light the griddle if you smell gas or suspect a leak. Turn off the supply if you can do so safely, keep flames and sparks away, and follow the manufacturer's leak and emergency instructions.

For the model-specific startup sequence, read How To Use A Blackstone Grill? and How To Light A Blackstone Grill?.

How long does a propane tank last on a Blackstone?

A tank's runtime depends on the griddle's fuel use, heat setting and how long you cook. Tank size alone can't tell you exactly how many meals you'll get.

Check the griddle's fuel rate in its manual and the tank's usable fuel amount to estimate runtime. Keep an eye on the fuel supply during longer cooking sessions, and follow the tank maker's guidance for checking how much propane remains.

If you want another comparison for standard gas grills, see what size propane tank for a gas grill.

What should you check before buying a propane bottle?

Confirm the model's approved bottle size and connector before ordering fuel or a hose. Then make sure the tank is in good condition and follow its storage and use instructions.

A quick checklist can prevent a mismatched setup:

1. Find the griddle's model number.
2. Check the approved fuel and tank or cylinder size.
3. Match the regulator and hose to the model instructions.
4. Inspect the tank, hose and connections for visible damage.
5. Follow the manual's connection and leak-check steps before lighting.

Choose a small cylinder if your model supports it and portability matters. Choose a refillable tank only when your model's instructions approve that tank and connection.

Frequently asked questions

What size propane tank does a Blackstone griddle need?

Use the tank size and connection approved for your specific Blackstone model. Some models are designed for small disposable propane cylinders, while others connect to a refillable tank.

Check the griddle manual or label and use a compatible regulator and hose.

Can I use a 20 lb propane tank with a Blackstone?

A 20 lb tank works only when your Blackstone model and its connection setup support a refillable tank of that kind. Confirm the manual's approved connection and regulator, and use a compatible hose.

Don't adapt a connection based on appearance alone.

Can I connect a small propane bottle to a Blackstone?

Some Blackstone models are made to use small disposable propane cylinders, but compatibility varies. Check the model's manual for the approved cylinder, regulator and connection.

A cylinder that physically attaches may still be unsuitable for your griddle.

Can I convert a propane Blackstone to natural gas?

Only convert a Blackstone if the manufacturer provides an approved conversion method for your exact model. The fuel system, regulator and burner setup must match the new fuel.

Read our guide to converting a Blackstone to natural gas before making any change.