Propane Frequently Asked Questions
Propane is a non-toxic, non-poisonous, safe, reliable, and clean energy source that poses zero threats to soil or groundwater. Propane tanks can be buried underground, hiding them from view without environmental risk. Because propane is a clean, environmentally-friendly fuel, you can rest easy knowing you’re taking good care of your family and the environment at the same time.
People ask us questions about propane all the time, and we’ve compiled some of the most common ones below. If you have further questions, please give us a call or fill out our online form.
Click on the FAQs below to learn more about propane.
Switching to Propane Could Save you Money! A top priority for many households, saving money is one of the biggest benefits of switching to propane energy. Other ways that propane can save you money are:
- Propane heat lasts longer than natural gas or electric heat, meaning you get more warmth out of less fuel.
- Propane can be used for many other household appliances, including clothing dryers, ranges, fireplaces, water heaters, generators, firepits, patio and pool heaters, and outdoor lighting.
- You can purchase propane as you need it instead of paying a monthly bill. But if you prefer a monthly bill to help balance your budget, agreements are available to even out the cost.
- Propane Works When Electricity Doesn’t. Even when the power goes out, you can rest assured your home will still be warm and your propane-powered appliances will still work.
- Propane has a lower carbon footprint as well, producing nearly 40% fewer emissions than oil, with low carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions.
Propane is a non-toxic, non-poisonous, safe, reliable, and clean energy source that poses zero threats to soil or groundwater. Propane tanks can be buried underground, hiding them from view without environmental risk. Because propane is a clean, environmentally-friendly fuel, you can rest easy knowing you’re taking good care of your family and the environment at the same time.
Understanding how to properly use and store propane, as well as how to detect warning signs of a gas leak can significantly reduce the risk of a propane-related hazard in your home. Click here to earn more about propane safety.
One of the safety features of propane is its unique smell – rotten eggs, a skunk’s spray or a dead animal. Ethyl mercaptan, a sulfur-based compound, is added to propane so that it can be detected when propane is in use. If you are concerned that you or others in your home may have difficulty smelling propane, consider installing a propane gas detector. These detectors sound an alarm if they sense the propane concentration at the detector.
After it leaves the processing plant, propane is stored as liquid underground until it’s needed. Then it travels around the country through a network of pipelines, railroad tank cars, tractor-trailers, and barges. From regional storage sites nationwide, the propane is then sent to distributors. Finally, propane is pumped into bobtail delivery trucks that deliver it to millions of American homes and businesses.
Propane is primarily a byproduct of domestic natural gas processing, though some propane is produced from crude oil refinement. U.S. propane supplies are becoming increasingly abundant due in large part to increased supplies of natural gas.
Propane — sometimes known as liquefied petroleum gas, or LPG — is a gas normally compressed and stored as a liquid. It is nontoxic, colorless, and virtually odorless; an identifying odor is added so it can be detected. Propane is commonly used for space and water heating, for cooking, and as fuel for engine applications.