In order to properly size the storage container, regulator and piping, the total BTU load must be determined. The total load is the sum of all gas usage in the installation. It is arrived at by adding up the BTU input of all appliances in the installation. The BTU input may be obtained from the nameplate on the appliance or from the manufacturers literature.
Future appliances which may be installed should also be considered when planning the initial installation to eliminate the need for a later revision of the piping and storage facilities.
Where it may be more desirable to have ratings expressed in CFH, divide the total BTU load by 2516 of CFH of propane.
Approximate BTU Input For Some Commercial Appliances
| Appliance | Approx Input (BTU per Hour) |
| Range, free standing, domestic | 65,000 |
| Built-in Oven or Broiler Unit, domestic | 25,000 |
| Built-in Top Unit, domestic | 40,000 |
| Water Heater (Quick recovery) automatic storage | -- |
| 30 us gal. tank | 30,000 |
| 40 us gal. tank | 38,000 |
| 50 us gal. tank | 50,000 |
| Water Heater, automatic instantaneous | |
| (2 gal/minute) | 142,800 |
| (4 gal/minute) | 285,000 |
| (6 gal/minute) | 482,000 |
| Refrigerator | 3,000 |
| Clothes Dryer, domestic | 35,000 |
| Incinerator, domestic | 32,000 |
