Propane Archives | Meritus Gas Partners Industrial gases and welding supplies Fri, 15 Aug 2025 17:29:38 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://meritusgas.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/MeritusGas_Favicon-150x150.png Propane Archives | Meritus Gas Partners 32 32 Propane Gas Properties https://meritusgas.com/propane-properties/ Wed, 06 Aug 2025 12:11:37 +0000 https://meritusgas.com/?p=97470 Propane is an industrial gas derived from crude oil refining and natural gas processing. This liquefied petroleum gas is flammable and versatile, with several key industrial uses and significant energy […]

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Propane is an industrial gas derived from crude oil refining and natural gas processing. This liquefied petroleum gas is flammable and versatile, with several key industrial uses and significant energy output.

Propane Gas Chemical Composition and Molar Mass

The chemical formula for propane is C3H8, meaning it is a three-carbon alkane gas. The molar mass of propane is 44.097 grams per mol, which affects its physical properties and industrial applications.

Physical Properties of Propane Gas

Propane gas physical properties include:

Physical Properties of propane gas
PropertyValue
Propane Boiling Point-44 to -42.2 °C
Propane Melting Point-187.7 °C
Propane Density as a Gas at 0 °C2.0098 kg/m3
Propane Density as a Liquid at 25 °C0.493 g/cm3
Propane Vapor Density1.52 if air = 1
Solubility in Waterinsoluble
Solubility in Other Solventssoluble in diethyl ether, benzene, chloroform, ethyl ether and ethanol

Combustion Characteristics

When the mixture of propane gas and air is within propane’s flammability limits, propane becomes combustible and can burn. An incorrect propane and air ratio can cause incomplete combustion and create carbon monoxide. When propane is below its flash point, it will stop burning. Understanding these combustion requirements is critical in heating and power applications.

Safety and Hazards

Propane is easily ignited and has vapors heavier than air, so flames can flash back if a leak is present. When propane is below its freezing point, evaporative cooling can cause frostbite or tissue damage if the propane comes in contact with skin.

Propane leaks can be dangerous to human health. The heavier propane vapors can displace air vapors, causing asphyxiation. Since propane is naturally odorless, an odorant such as ethyl mercaptan, which smells like sulfur or rotten eggs, is often added to make leaks more detectable. 

Storage Requirements

Propane occurs naturally as a gas, and it is most commonly used in this form. When pressurized, propane liquefies and is stored and transported in this state. As the pressure is released, the liquefied propane vaporizes, turning it into gas. Propane gas is available in cylinders, liquid form or bulk.

Common Industrial Uses of Propane

Propane has a wide range of uses in:

  • Commercial heating.
  • Crop drying and weed control in agriculture.
  • Irrigation pumps.
  • Manufacturing for cosmetics, fibers, plastics and alcohol.
  • Motor fuel, such as forklifts in warehousing.
  • Power generation as fuel for standby generators.

Contact Meritus Gas Partners About Propane Gas

Meritus Gas Partners offers technical expertise, supply solutions and safety compliance support for propane gas and other industrial gases. Get started today by finding a partner in your area or contacting us to learn more.

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Propane Tank Refill in West Sacramento, CA https://meritusgas.com/propane-tank-refill-west-sacramento-ca/ Thu, 08 Aug 2024 12:32:49 +0000 https://meritusgas.com/?p=90516 The post Propane Tank Refill in West Sacramento, CA appeared first on Meritus Gas Partners.

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Filling Your Propane Tank for BBQ: A Guide from Advanced Gases in Sacramento

In the realm of outdoor cooking, there’s something undeniably satisfying about the sizzle of meat hitting a hot grill. But before you can ignite those flames and embark on your culinary adventure, there’s one essential step that often gets overlooked – ensuring your propane tank is filled and ready to fuel your BBQ. In West Sacramento, Advanced Gases stands out as your go-to destination for all propane-related needs, offering convenience, reliability, and expertise.

Why Propane Matters

Propane is the lifeblood of your BBQ experience. It’s a clean-burning, efficient fuel source that provides consistent heat, allowing you to achieve that perfect sear or slow roast with precision. However, running out of propane mid-cookout can quickly put a damper on your plans. That’s where Advanced Gases comes in, providing hassle-free propane tank refills to keep your BBQ sessions uninterrupted.

Convenience at Your Fingertips

Located in the heart of West Sacramento, Advanced Gases is easily accessible, ensuring you’re never far from a quick propane refill. Their knowledgeable staff members are dedicated to making the process seamless, whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice BBQ enthusiast. Simply bring your empty propane tank to their location, and they’ll take care of the rest, ensuring it’s filled to capacity and ready to power your grill.

Safety First

When it comes to handling propane, safety should always be a top priority. Advanced Gases adheres to strict safety protocols to guarantee a risk-free experience for their customers. Their trained professionals conduct thorough inspections of each tank before refilling, ensuring there are no leaks or structural issues that could compromise safety. Additionally, they provide guidance on proper handling and storage of propane tanks, empowering customers to grill with confidence.

Expert Advice

At Advanced Gases, they understand that every BBQ aficionado has unique needs and preferences. That’s why their team is always on hand to offer expert advice and recommendations. Whether you’re unsure about the optimal propane tank size for your grill or need tips on maximizing fuel efficiency, they’re eager to assist. Their commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond the refill process, fostering a supportive community of outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

Environmental Responsibility

In an era where sustainability is paramount, Advanced Gases is dedicated to minimizing their environmental footprint. Propane is inherently eco-friendly, emitting fewer greenhouse gases than traditional fuel sources. By choosing propane for your BBQ needs, you’re making a conscious decision to reduce your carbon footprint. Additionally, Advanced Gases prioritizes proper disposal and recycling of propane tanks, ensuring they’re handled in an environmentally responsible manner.

Filling your propane tank for BBQ shouldn’t be a hassle – it should be a seamless, stress-free experience. With Advanced Gases in West Sacramento, you can rest assured knowing that your propane needs are in capable hands. From convenient refill services to expert advice and a commitment to safety and sustainability, they’re your trusted partner in outdoor cooking adventures. So fire up that grill, gather your friends and family, and savor the flavors of a perfectly grilled meal, knowing that Advanced Gases has you covered every step of the way.

Contact Us Today!

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Propane Tank Refill in Placerville, California https://meritusgas.com/propane-tank-refill-placerville-ca/ Thu, 08 Aug 2024 12:30:09 +0000 https://meritusgas.com/?p=90514 The post Propane Tank Refill in Placerville, California appeared first on Meritus Gas Partners.

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Get Your Grill Ready: Filling Your Propane Tank at Advanced Gases in Placerville, California for a Graduation Party

With graduation season around the corner, it’s time to start planning the perfect celebration for your graduate. And what better way to kick off the festivities than with a mouthwatering barbecue? But before you fire up the grill, make sure your propane tank is filled and ready to go. At Advanced Gases in Placerville, California, we’ve got you covered with top-notch propane refill services to ensure your grill is ready to sizzle for your graduation party.

Why Choose Advanced Gases?

Advanced Gases is your go-to destination for all your propane needs in Placerville. Here’s why filling your propane tank with us is the smart choice for your graduation party:

  1. Convenient Location: Located in the heart of Placerville, Advanced Gases offers easy access for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re planning a backyard bash or a picnic at the park, swing by our location to refill your propane tank hassle-free.

  2. Quick and Efficient Service: We understand that time is of the essence when you’re preparing for a graduation party. That’s why our team at Advanced Gases works swiftly to refill your propane tank so you can get back to party planning without delay.

  3. Quality Propane: When it comes to grilling, quality matters. At Advanced Gases, we guarantee top-quality propane that burns clean and ensures consistent heat for perfect grilling results every time. Say goodbye to uneven cooking and hello to delicious barbecue fare that will impress your guests.

  4. Expert Guidance: Not sure how much propane you’ll need for your graduation party? Our knowledgeable staff is here to help. Whether you’re grilling up burgers for a small gathering or hosting a large-scale barbecue extravaganza, we’ll advise you on the right amount of propane to keep the grill fired up all day long.

  5. Competitive Pricing: Planning a graduation party can put a strain on your budget, but filling your propane tank shouldn’t break the bank. At Advanced Gases, we offer competitive pricing on propane refills, so you can enjoy your celebration without worrying about overspending.

Tips for Safe Propane Usage:

While propane is a convenient and efficient fuel source for your grill, it’s essential to prioritize safety when handling and using it. Here are some tips to ensure a safe grilling experience at your graduation party:

  • Check for Leaks: Before connecting your propane tank to the grill, inspect the tank and connections for any signs of leakage. If you detect a leak, do not attempt to use the tank and seek professional assistance immediately.

  • Keep Ventilation in Mind: Always grill outdoors in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide. Never use your grill in an enclosed space, such as a garage or indoor porch.

  • Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s instructions for both your grill and propane tank. Adhering to these guidelines will help prevent accidents and ensure proper operation.

  • Store Propane Safely: When not in use, store your propane tank in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep the tank in an upright position to prevent leakage.

  • Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy: In case of emergencies, always have a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it. Never attempt to extinguish a propane fire with water.

Celebrate in Style with Advanced Gases

Make your graduation party a memorable affair with delicious barbecue fare cooked to perfection on a well-fueled grill. At Advanced Gases in Placerville, California, we’re dedicated to providing you with the highest quality propane and exceptional service to ensure your celebration goes off without a hitch. Swing by our location today to fill your propane tank and get ready to grill up a storm at your graduation party!

Contact Us Today!

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Propane Tank Refill in Jackson, California https://meritusgas.com/propane-tank-refill-jackson-ca/ Thu, 08 Aug 2024 12:23:57 +0000 https://meritusgas.com/?p=90512 The post Propane Tank Refill in Jackson, California appeared first on Meritus Gas Partners.

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Fill Your Propane Tank at Advanced Gases in Jackson, CA

Are you gearing up for a summer full of backyard barbecues and delicious grilled meals? If so, it’s essential to ensure your propane tank is ready to fuel those flame-kissed dishes. At Advanced Gases in Jackson, California, we understand the importance of convenience and safety when it comes to filling your propane tank for your grill. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this process.

Types of Propane Tanks

Before we dive into the refilling process, it’s important to understand the different types of propane tanks. The most common sizes for residential use are 20lb and 5gal tanks, while forklifts and other industrial equipment typically use 33lb or 43lb tanks. It’s important to know the size of your tank before attempting to refill it, as different tanks require different procedures.

Refilling vs. Exchanging

When it comes to refilling your propane tank, you have two options: refilling or exchanging. Refilling involves taking your empty tank to a propane filling station and having it refilled with propane. Exchanging, on the other hand, involves trading in your empty tank for a full one at a retail store or gas station. While exchanging may be more convenient, it’s important to note that you may not always receive a completely full tank in return.

Safety Precautions

When it comes to handling propane, safety should always be the priority. At Advanced Gases, we adhere to strict safety protocols to ensure that every refill is performed safely. Our technicians are trained to inspect propane tanks for any signs of damage or wear before refilling. Additionally, we use state-of-the-art equipment to prevent overfilling and minimize the risk of leaks. With Advanced Gases, you can have peace of mind knowing that your propane tank is in good hands.

Refilling Process

The process of refilling a propane tank is relatively simple, but it’s important to follow the proper steps to ensure a safe and efficient refill. First, make sure to turn off all valves and regulators on the tank. Then, connect the tank to the filling hose and open the valve on the tank. The filling station will then fill the tank with propane until it reaches the recommended fill level. Once filled, close the valve and disconnect the tank from the filling hose.

Proper Storage

After refilling your propane tank, it’s important to store it properly to ensure its safety and longevity. Always store your tank in a well-ventilated area, away from any sources of heat or ignition. It’s also important to keep the tank upright and secure to prevent any potential accidents.

Propane tank refilling is a simple process, but it’s important to follow the proper precautions and procedures to ensure a safe and efficient refill. By understanding the different types of tanks, safety precautions, and the refilling process, you can confidently refill your propane tank and continue to use it for all your heating and cooking needs.

Why Choose Advanced Gases?

Advanced Gases is not just your average propane filling station. We pride ourselves on providing top-notch customer service, convenience, and, most importantly, safety. Our team is trained to handle propane with care, ensuring that every refill is done correctly and efficiently. Additionally, our location in Jackson, California, makes us easily accessible for residents in the area.

Convenience at Your Fingertips

Gone are the days of lugging your propane tank to a distant filling station. At Advanced Gases, we offer unmatched convenience for our customers. Simply drive up to our facility, and our friendly staff will take care of the rest. We understand that your time is valuable, so we strive to make the refilling process quick and hassle-free. With Advanced Gases, you can get back to grilling in no time.

Environmentally Friendly Practices

At Advanced Gases, we are committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. That’s why we take extra care to ensure that our propane filling process minimizes environmental impact. We use advanced technology to capture and recycle any excess gas, preventing it from being released into the atmosphere. Additionally, we properly dispose of any waste materials in accordance with environmental regulations. When you choose Advanced Gases, you’re not just getting a refill – you’re supporting eco-friendly practices.

Tips for Propane Tank Maintenance

Proper maintenance of your propane tank is essential for ensuring optimal performance and safety. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  1. Inspect Regularly: Check your propane tank for signs of damage, such as rust or dents, on a regular basis.

  2. Keep it Clean: Wipe down your propane tank periodically to remove dirt and debris that could affect its performance.

  3. Store Safely: When not in use, store your propane tank in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources and direct sunlight.

  4. Handle with Care: Always transport and handle your propane tank with care to prevent accidents or damage.

By following these simple tips and entrusting your propane refills to Advanced Gases, you can enjoy worry-free grilling all summer long.

When it comes to filling your propane tank for your grill, Advanced Gases in Jackson, California, is the ultimate destination. With our commitment to safety, convenience, and environmental responsibility, you can trust us to provide top-quality service every time. So why wait? Visit Advanced Gases today and get ready to fire up the grill for a season of delicious outdoor cooking.

Contact Us Today!

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Keeping Taco Mama’s Patios Functional with Propane Heaters https://meritusgas.com/patio-propane-heaters-taco-mamas/ Wed, 22 Nov 2023 11:23:39 +0000 https://meritusgas.com/?p=10686 Atlas Welding Supply supplies Taco Mama’s restaurants with propane tanks and racks rental as well as food grade CO2 tanks.

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Patio propane heaters keep Taco Mama’s patio spaces comfortable for their guests

Taco Mama's Restaurant Propane Heaters

Who doesn’t love tacos, burritos, nachos and margaritas? Not many people – at least that’s what Taco Mama has learned since opening their doors in 2011. Taco Mama offers great tasting, fresh food in a funky and fun atmosphere to communities across Alabama.

For more than 4 years, Atlas Welding Supply has supplied Taco Mama’s restaurants with propane tanks and racks rental as well as food grade CO2 tanks.

Like many restaurants, Taco Mama uses outdoor heaters during the colder months to keep their patio spaces functional and comfortable for their guests. Exchanging propane tanks for patio heaters can become quite time consuming and stressful. With Atlas’s support, Taco Mama’s team can concentrate on operating their restaurants–trusting their heaters are supplied with plenty of propane to operate safely and efficiently.

“Atlas provides great, consistent service with their product, which always helps solve problems!” said Janna Bearden.” If we ever need additional backup tanks, the Atlas team is wonderful about getting those out at their next exchange visit.”

In addition to propane, Atlas also supplies Taco Mama with food grade CO2 tanks to keep the fizz in their fountain drink machines.

“Anyone I’ve reached out to at Atlas (both Birmingham and Tuscaloosa) has always been very helpful and kind,” Bearden said. “In emergency situations, we’ve had a sales guy go check out a potential service request and experienced a quick resolution to any delivery needs we may have had. They respect the delivery windows for our restaurants so our restaurant teams aren’t affected, and in general, they are a fabulous vendor partner to us!”

Thank you, Taco Mama, for being a loyal customer! We look forward to our continued partnership!

Providing High-Quality Hospitality Gas Solutions Since 1944

At Atlas Welding Supply, we ensure our customers a safe supply of gas with the responsive support of an experienced staff. Having experience in these applications and environments is the key to success and alleviating any potential issues, such as run outs and equipment issues. We know what we’re doing and truly care about the outcome. Overall, our goal is to take the burden off the customer by giving them confidence in their supply.

Our hospitality gases are used in restaurants, bars, music halls, stadiums, theaters and more. Our gases are also used widely for outdoor patio spaces with gas-powered patio heaters and/or barbecue grills, food trucks using dry ice and propane, and any space with balloons requiring helium. Have a problem? Let us offer a gas supply solution. Contact us today to request a solution.

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Propane vs. Natural Gas: What’s the Difference? https://meritusgas.com/propane-vs-natural-gas/ Fri, 20 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000 https://meritusgas.com/?p=6977 Propane and natural gas are locally produced fossil fuels. Both are colorless, odorless, clean-burning and cost-effective alternatives to electricity. They may be used interchangeably for a variety of residential, commercial […]

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Propane and natural gas are locally produced fossil fuels. Both are colorless, odorless, clean-burning and cost-effective alternatives to electricity. They may be used interchangeably for a variety of residential, commercial and industrial applications ranging from heating homes, cooking, water heating and powering appliances, machinery and vehicles.

While they have many similarities, they also differ, including their chemical composition, energy efficiency and storage and distribution methods. Below are the main factors that distinguish propane and natural gas so you can make the right choice for your home, business or industrial use.

What Is Propane?

Propane is a clean, colorless and odorless fossil fuel that’s compressed and stored in liquid form. In this state, it’s also referred to as liquified petroleum gas (LPG) or LP gas.

It’s a byproduct of natural gas that’s extracted through refrigeration. It can also be processed from crude oil through distillation. While it’s virtually odorless, an odorant called ethyl mercaptan is typically added after extraction to give it a skunk or rotten egg smell that makes it easy to identify gas leaks. 

Propane accounts for up to 2% of the total energy consumption in the U.S. Its most common uses include household use like cooking and water and home heating. It’s also used to power industrial machinery, cut metal, produce plastic and run agricultural equipment.

What Is Natural Gas?

Natural gas is a combustible, colorless, odorless and nonrenewable gaseous fossil fuel. It’s a combination of hydrocarbons. Like propane, odorants are added to help with gas leak detection. It makes up at least 40% of total utility energy consumption in the U.S.

As a fossil fuel, natural gas is obtained from sedimentary rocks, like shale. These rocks form from the remains of plants and animals combined by heat and pressure over millions of years into an oxygen-deprived gaseous substance found near coal and oil deposits. There are two main categories of natural gas based on their origin and location:

  • Conventional natural gas: The deposits of conventional natural gas are found in the cracks between layers of overlying rock and close to oil reservoir deposits. It’s easy to mine using well drilling and other traditional pumping techniques.
  • Unconventional natural gas: It’s sometimes referred to as tight gas or shale gas. Unconventional natural gas deposits are located in tiny pores within sedimentary rocks such as shale, sandstone and coal seams. 

What Is Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG)?

Liquified petroleum gas is a mixture of light hydrocarbons that exist as gases at room temperatures and liquefy when pressurized or cooled. LPG’s primary constituents include propane and butane. Other minor hydrocarbons, such as isobutane, propylene and butylene, can also be present. This versatility means LPG can be customized to suit different applications and environments. 

Liquefied petroleum gas and its variants are extracted when refining crude oil or separated during natural gas processing. LPG is typically stored and transported in a liquid state under moderate pressure, and it converts rapidly into a vapor upon release. LPG’s composition varies based on geographical location, climate and intended application. It is adaptable for numerous uses — from residential heating to vehicle fuel.

Is Liquified Petroleum Same as Propane? 

While propane is a type of LPG, the two are not identical. LPG includes a range of hydrocarbons, with propane as its most significant component. LPG’s additional constituents change its inherent properties and usage. In contrast, propane is a single compound with a specific chemical formula.

The Differences Between Propane, LPG and Natural Gas

While propane and natural gas share numerous similarities and are used for many of the same applications, they also differ in composition, infrastructure and storage, cost, efficiency and environmental impact.

Chemical Composition

The chemical compositions of propane, natural gas and LPG are very distinct. Propane consists of three carbon atoms bonded by eight hydrogen atoms. Hence, its chemical formula is C3H8, while natural gas is made up of one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms (CH4). 

LPG can be made up of propane, butane (C4H10), isobutane (i-C4H10), propylene (C3H6) and butylene (C4H8). LPG’s exact mix of gases depends on the source and the intended application. 

Propane’s chemical composition ensures it can exist in gaseous form at room temperature or when the atmospheric pressure doesn’t exceed (14.6 psi). At higher pressures of between 100 and 200 psi, propane condenses and exists in a liquid state. It has a high octane rating and calorific value, meaning it works great for spark-ignited internal combustion engines and produces more energy than natural gas. 

Generally, natural gas includes hydrocarbons — highly combustible organic compounds found in fossil fuels — and non-hydrocarbons — acid gases that are considered impurities in fossil fuels. 

When it is extracted, natural gas is usually wet because of the hydrocarbons, which include ethane, butane, propane and pentane and the nonhydrocarbons, such as CO2 and water vapor. These wet ingredients must be removed during processing to produce pure natural gas that consists of almost pure methane (60-90%). The hydrocarbons or natural gas liquids (NGLs) are not disposed of. Instead, they’re sold as valuable natural gas byproducts. 

Transportation Infrastructure and Storage

One of the most profound differences between propane, LPG and natural gas is their transportation and storage methods, which are determined by their natural state.

Propane

After processing, propane is pressurized and compressed into a liquid that’s stored in underground pipelines with controlled conditions at production and distribution sites. Propane is more portable than natural gas because the compressed liquid is distributed through a network of pipelines, barges, tractor-trailers, railcars and tanker trucks. 

Propane is stored in lightweight pressurized tanks made of steel and other corrosion-resistant materials that vary in size based on application. Tank sizes range between 100 to 1,000 gallons for residential tanks and 1,000 to 30,000 gallons for commercial and residential tanks, which can be under or above ground. These tanks have a pressure valve that releases the pressure and converts propane back into its gaseous state to facilitate residential, commercial and industrial uses. 

Propane’s portability makes it highly reliable because even in extreme weather, propane tanks can continue delivering heat to power homes and facilitate its other uses.

LPG

Similarly, LPG is normally stored as a liquid under moderate pressure, making it highly portable. It can be stored in pressurized tanks or cylinders of various sizes, from small household containers to large commercial storage tanks. The relatively direct condensation of LPG makes it easier to store and transport over long distances, particularly in rural or off-grid areas where pipeline infrastructure is unavailable.

Natural Gas

Natural gas is transported through an extensive and complex network of underground pipelines. These pipelines facilitate its collection for processing, storage and delivery to the end consumer. They can be categorized into three types:

  • Gathering pipelines: These are small-diameter low-pressure pipelines used to collect raw natural gas from wells and transport it to processing plants.
  • Interstate/intrastate pipelines: These transport the processed natural gas from plants within and across state borders to main distributors.
  • Distribution pipelines: These are underground utility pipes used to deliver natural gas to end-consumers, including residential, commercial and industrial customers.

Pipelines are made of either strong carbon steel materials or highly advanced plastics that don’t corrode easily. Hard plastic is preferred for pipelines that require easy replacement and flexibility.  

Compressed natural gas (CNG) is highly pressurized during transportation, and compressor stations powered by motors, engines or turbines are strategically placed along the pipelines to maintain that pressure. Pipelines also have metering stations to detect leaks while monitoring flow and pressure changes. Natural gas can also be stored in its uncompressed state under extremely cold temperatures for niche applications.

Cost and Efficiency

Because these three are fossil fuels, their prices fluctuate over time to meet supply and demand. Generally, propane is more expensive than natural gas on a per-unit basis because its cost is measured per gallon, while natural gas is valued per cubic foot. 

Hence, natural gas is cheaper per unit of energy than propane. However, propane has a higher energy content per cubic foot, with approximately 2,500 British Thermal Units (BTUs) per cubic foot. Natural gas only produces approximately 1,000 BTUs per cubic foot. This means you need to purchase twice the amount of natural gas to produce the same amount of heat as propane.

BTU is a measure of heat produced by fuels or energy sources. It represents the heat required to increase the temperature of 1 pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit. While propane may cost more per unit, it burns cleaner and boasts more heating efficiency.

Producers can fine-tune LPG blends to optimize energy density depending on the ratio of butane to propane. Blends with higher butane levels generally yield higher energy density and lower costs in moderate to warm climates than pure propane. However, their performance declines substantially in cold conditions.

Combustion Characteristics and Environmental Impact

Propane, LPG and natural gas are generally considered clean-burning fuels with a low environmental impact.

Propane

Propane has a significantly lower carbon content than other fossil fuels and petroleum products like gasoline and diesel. When combusted, propane produces only about 12.61 pounds of CO2, almost half of what gasoline emits. Substituting propane for other fuels, such as coal, also minimizes the emission of air pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide. 

In case of leaks, propane does not build up in soil or water, a common environmental hazard of many fossil fuels. Propane’s high heat efficiency also ensures less energy is used to power appliances. 

LPG

LPG shares propane’s clean-burning characteristics. However, depending on the exact mix of propane and butane, LPG normally has a slightly higher environmental impact than pure propane due to the higher carbon content of butane.

Natural Gas

Natural gas is a relatively clean burning fuel that does not leave ash or toxic mercury or sulfur oxide emissions. However, methane in natural gas is a highly potent greenhouse gas that releases CO2 and water vapor when combusted. Fortunately, these emissions remain to be significantly lower than those produced by burning coal and petroleum products. 

Natural gas may contribute to environmental pollution when it leaks into soil, water and the atmosphere. These leaks are often a result of drilling accidents, pipeline leaks and abandoned gas wells. Strict industry standards and federal regulations are in place to minimize leaks and ensure safe processing, storage, distribution and use of natural gas.

Applications of Propane Vs. Natural Gas

Propane and natural gas have numerous residential, commercial and industrial uses ranging from indoor heating and cooking to being used as alternative fuels for vehicles, agricultural equipment, welding and generating electric energy. The difference in performance in all the applications is negligible, and the choice typically comes down to your location because natural gas utility pipelines are not available everywhere. 

However, propane is a portable alternative that a certified professional can deliver and install on your residential, commercial or industrial property. Switching between the two fossil fuel options is generally an investment because they need different equipment and accessories to facilitate the pressure differences, but the changes can prove beneficial. Some of the appliance modifications that may be necessary include burners, conversion kits and regulators.

Compressed propane and natural gas versions can be used as alternative automobile fuels. LPG and propane autogas are among the top transportation fuels thanks to their high-octane rating that makes them ideal for powering spark-ignited combustion automobile engines. Compressed natural gas or liquified natural gas are relatively affordable alternatives to gasoline and diesel. However, these vehicles may be expensive because they need large, heavy and insulated tanks due to the dense nature and cold storage temperatures required.

Propane is also ideal for use in the welding industry thanks to its high combustion temperature of 3,596 F. This means it can be used to melt metals such as brass, bronze and aluminum, as well as metal jewelry like silver and gold. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Here are some of our most frequently asked questions to help you decide which gas is right for your application:

Which Is Better, Propane or Natural gas?

Propane is generally better because it’s a clean-burning fuel that’s more energy-efficient than natural gas. It’s also a low-emission fuel that’s better for the environment because it produces fewer greenhouse gases and air pollutants.

Is Propane Safe?

Propane is relatively safe, nontoxic and reliable for indoor and outdoor use. Contrary to popular belief, propane tank explosions are not common, provided you follow all safe handling and storage instructions.

What Are the Disadvantages of Propane?

One of the main disadvantages of propane is the logistics for transporting it. While with natural gas, you only need to pay your utility bill to keep it on, scheduling for propane tank refills may be time-consuming unless you find a reliable supplier who’ll refill your tank when you need it. Even with a reliable supplier, supply chain and transportation issues can sometimes prevent it from getting to you on time. Propane prices also fluctuate based on market trends, weather conditions and supply and demand.

What Are the Disadvantages of Natural Gas?

Natural gas is nonrenewable, meaning it’s not a sustainable energy source because its supply will eventually deplete. It also contributes to the emission of greenhouse gases and can be toxic to humans when it’s inhaled in large quantities in case of leaks. 

Which Is More Flammable?

Propane gas is more flammable than natural gas, meaning it is more susceptible to causing injuries and accidents when you don’t implement strict handling, storage and usage precautions. However, propane is not flammable when pressurized in its liquid state.

Which One Is Better for Residential Use?

Propane is preferable for residential use because it’s convenient, versatile and cost-effective. Its low carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions also appeal to many homeowners. Either option may prove more affordable for your home depending on the current market prices, your location, frequency of use and delivery and how much gas you typically consume in a given period.

Contact Meritus Gas Partners for Your Propane, Natural Gas and LPG Needs

Knowing the differences between propane, LPG and natural gas is critical to choosing the right fuel for your application. Propane is ideal for applications requiring high heat and portability, especially in cold climates. LPG, being a mixture, offers versatility and can be tailored for different uses and climates. Natural gas is readily available, but it may not heat as efficiently as propane and LPG. 

Meritus Gas Partners provides a comprehensive and flexible gas supply for propane, LPG and natural gas that matches your residential and industrial applications. Our wide network of local distributors offers attentive customer service coupled with the resources and expertise of a large company. Contact us today to learn more.

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