If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of running out of propane mid-cookout, you know exactly why propane tank monitors exist. The GasWatch TVL220-AVC Bluetooth Propane Tank Level Indicator promises to solve this common grilling headache by providing accurate, real-time measurements of your propane levels. But does it deliver on that promise in 2025? Our in-depth review examines whether this device is still worth considering with some important caveats to be aware of.
What is the GasWatch Propane Monitor?
The GasWatch is a digital scale-based propane level indicator designed to work with standard 16-20 pound propane tanks commonly used with gas grills and outdoor appliances. Unlike liquid crystal stickers or inline gauges that often provide inconsistent readings, the GasWatch uses weight measurement to determine how much propane remains in your tank.
This model features:
- A built-in digital display showing propane levels
- Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone monitoring
- LED indicators showing 10%, 50%, 75%, and 100% levels
- Mobile app functionality for detailed monitoring
- Low-level alerts when propane reaches 20%
- Cooking time estimates based on current usage
How the GasWatch Works
The GasWatch operates using a surprisingly simple but effective principle:
- Weight-Based Measurement: The device is essentially a digital scale calibrated to measure the weight of your propane tank. Since propane has a consistent weight, the scale can accurately determine how much fuel remains.
- No Direct Gas Contact: Unlike inline gauges that connect directly to the gas flow (creating potential leak points), the GasWatch has no physical connection to the propane itself, enhancing safety.
- Dual Display Options: The unit provides readings both on its built-in LED display and through the companion smartphone app (when available), giving you multiple ways to check your propane levels.
- Predictive Monitoring: When using the app, the system can estimate remaining cooking time based on your current usage pattern, helping you plan your grilling sessions.
At about $36, the GasWatch positions itself as a mid-range solution compared to simple inline gauges ($15-25) and more expensive smart monitoring systems ($70-150).
Installation and Setup
Setting up the GasWatch is straightforward:
- Insert the included AAA batteries into the scale
- Place the scale on a flat, level surface inside or near your grill cabinet
- Set your propane tank on top of the scale
- For basic functionality, you’re done—the LED display will show current propane levels
- For advanced features, download and pair with the GasWatch app (if available)
The device is designed to fit inside standard grill cabinets, with the digital display visible without opening the cabinet door.
Performance Analysis: What We Found
After testing the GasWatch with multiple propane tanks and grilling sessions, we discovered a mix of impressive features and notable limitations.
What Works Well
- Accurate Measurements: The weight-based approach provides more reliable readings than pressure gauges or stick-on indicators.
- Easy-to-Read Display: The LED indicators clearly show remaining propane levels with minimal guesswork.
- Safety Advantage: With no direct connection to propane flow, there’s zero risk of gas leaks from the monitoring device.
- Standalone Functionality: The built-in display works independently, which is crucial given the app issues (more on that below).
- Compatible with Standard Tanks: Works with virtually any 16-20 pound propane tank, regardless of brand or age.
Significant Limitations
- App Availability Issues: The most serious drawback is that the GasWatch app appears to be unavailable in many regions, including the US. Multiple customer reviews and our own testing confirm this problem.
- Possible Defunct Company: Evidence suggests the manufacturer (TVL International LLC) may have ceased operations, potentially during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving the app and support infrastructure abandoned.
- Limited Features Without App: Without the app, you lose access to cooking time estimates and precise percentage readings (limited to 10%, 50%, 75%, and 100% indicators).
- Not Waterproof: The unit is only splash-resistant, not waterproof, making outdoor placement problematic without protection.
- Needs Level Surface: For accurate readings, the scale must be placed on a completely level surface, which isn’t always available in outdoor cooking areas.
The App Situation: What You Need to Know
The GasWatch was originally designed with Bluetooth connectivity as a key selling point, allowing users to monitor propane levels remotely via a smartphone app. However, this functionality has become increasingly problematic:
- Multiple recent reviews indicate the app is no longer available for download in the US and other regions
- Attempts to register existing apps often fail
- Customer support appears to be non-existent, with disconnected phone numbers and unanswered inquiries
- The company website may be operational but download links don’t function
This creates a significant limitation for new buyers, as you’ll likely be restricted to using only the basic LED display functions without the advanced app features.
Comparison with Alternatives
GasWatch vs. Inline Pressure Gauges
Inline Pressure Gauges ($15-25)
- Pros: Cheaper, no batteries needed, simple installation
- Cons: Less accurate, potential leak point, affected by temperature
GasWatch ($35.95)
- Pros: More accurate, no leak risk, clear LED display
- Cons: Requires batteries, app issues, not fully weatherproof
GasWatch vs. Premium Smart Monitors
Mopeka Pro Check Sensors ($70+)
- Pros: Active company support, functional app, magnetic tank mount
- Cons: More expensive, requires smartphone
GasWatch ($35.95)
- Pros: Lower cost, built-in display without requiring smartphone
- Cons: App availability issues, uncertain future support
Who Should Buy the GasWatch in 2025?
Good Fit For:
- Budget-conscious grillers who want better accuracy than inline gauges
- Users who don’t need smartphone connectivity and are satisfied with the built-in display
- Those with indoor or protected grill storage where water exposure isn’t an issue
- People comfortable with using a product that may have limited ongoing support
Not Recommended For:
- Anyone who wants smartphone connectivity and app features
- Users needing precise percentage readings (vs. the 10/50/75/100% increments)
- Outdoor setups with exposure to rain or weather
- Those who want ongoing support and possible firmware updates
The Verdict: Still Useful But With Caveats
The GasWatch propane tank monitor presents an interesting case in 2025. On one hand, it delivers on its core promise of providing more accurate propane level readings than many alternatives. The weight-based approach is inherently more reliable than pressure gauges, and the built-in display offers convenient at-a-glance monitoring.
However, the apparent demise of the manufacturer and the inaccessibility of the companion app significantly diminish the product’s value proposition. You’re essentially buying a device with permanently limited functionality compared to what was originally advertised.
At its current price point (around $36), the GasWatch remains a reasonable option if you understand these limitations upfront. Users report the basic level indication features work well without the app, making it still useful as a straightforward propane monitor.
Final Rating: 3.5/5
The GasWatch earns points for accurate readings and ease of use but loses marks for the app availability issues and lack of company support. Consider it a functional basic propane monitor rather than the full-featured smart device it was designed to be.
Alternative Recommendations
If the GasWatch’s limitations are dealbreakers for you, consider these alternatives:
- For Budget Option: Flame King Propane Tank Gauge Level Indicator ($14.99) – A simple inline gauge with good reviews
- For Smart Features: Mopeka Pro Check Universal Sensor ($67.99) – A modern alternative with functional app support
- For Maximum Reliability: WADEO Propane Tank Gauge Level Indicator 2-Pack ($24.99) – Highly rated basic gauges
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