1 gallon propane is actually rated as 27kWh of electricity. But because RV appliance BTU's are expressed through BTU input ratings and are based on a "per hour" basis.RV appliances (both LP and AC) are so inefficient, using 22 rather than 27 takes the inefficiency into account. So...
1 gallon LP = 27 kWh (Kilowatt Hours) of electricity = approximately 91,500 BTU.
We buy our LP by the metered gallon. Sometimes is is weighted as it is filled (meter runs), but we pay for the fuel by the gallon.
If you are using RV appliances then...
1 gallon LP = 22 kWh (Kilowatt Hours) of electricity = approximately 91,330 to 91,600 BTU.
The Dept. of Energy says 91,330 BTU per gallon LP. The American Gas Association says 91,600.
Appliance BTU's are expressed through BTU input ratings and are based on a "per hour" basis.
For RV's - LP Vs. AC KWH costs: Divide cost of Propane per gallon by 22 to get equivalent cost of
electric. If propane is cheaper, Then use propane. If electric is cheaper, Then use electric.
If you are using energy efficient household appliances use "27" not "22". We are using household appliances in the bus (GE Profile Gas Range... only LP appliance). We had RV appliances in the Class C (RV water heater, RV furnace & RV gas range).
NOTE: as you can see the figures tend to range as it really depends on your appliances, the quality of your LP and how well your regulator works. All you can do is get a general "ballpark" figure. Using a single 30" home gas range (yes I do run the oven as well as the "high output burner a lot). 20 Lb LP tank filled correctly takes about 1 month to use.
GE Profile 30" Gas Range
Top Burner BTU Rating - LP:
(1) 13,000 BTU's;
(2) 9,100 BTU's;
(1) 5,000 BTU's;
Oven BTU Rating - LP: 15,000 BTU's
Broiler BTU Rating - LP: 12,000 BTU's
Typical (Maytag) RV 22" range (3 burner)
Top Burner BTU Rating - LP:
(1) 9,100 BTU 's;
(2) 6,500 BTU's
Oven BTU' rating: Unknown
