Why Should You Choose Natural Gas Over Propane?

Oct 16, 2020 | Fuel Comparisons

When looking at alternative fuels for your environment, you might have considered electric, ethanol, or even hybrid models. However, there’s a better solution rising in popularity, especially for industries that rely on propane. Discover the advantages of natural gas for powering your heavy-duty equipment and operational processes.

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As one of the largest energy sources in the world, natural gas currently provides over one-half of the energy used for residential or commercial applications. While propane remains a leader in fuel sources, you may be considering whether converting your operations to the more cost-effective, natural gas is worth it. Learn why you should choose natural gas instead of propane for your equipment.

Enhance Safety

Propane – sometimes known as liquefied petroleum gas – is a nontoxic, flammable gas that is commonly used for heating or ignition purposes. While the flammability of propane can be advantageous, the chemical properties create a number of safety issues. 

Because propane is denser than air, a leak can be catastrophic. In dry areas, propane will sink and create a pool of gas that can become combustible from any source of ignition. Alternatively, propane is lighter than water, which means leaks in a wet area can pool together quickly, leaving little time to safely respond.

Natural gas, on the other hand, is lighter than air and will quickly dissipate in the event of a leak. Moreover, this allows team members enough time to safely respond to any problems that may arise in a natural gas line or tank. Additionally, natural gas remains a top green fuel, helping to reduce the number of greenhouse gases burned into the atmosphere.

Reduce Fuel Costs

Price is a major advantage of switching to natural gas. Because petroleum-based products originate from oil refineries all over the world, the price can change rapidly and without much warning. Both supply and demand can affect the price of propane, making it susceptible to a number of changes on a global scale.

Comparatively, both compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) are available domestically and can be transported by pipelines, trucks, or rail. This direct accessibility allows providers the ability to keep fuel costs low and sustainable.

Maximize Proficiency

One of the top factors in choosing a fuel source is accessibility. Often used for home heating in Northern climates, propane tanks or propane line access can be difficult to acquire during the winter months.

Natural gas, however, is readily available throughout the United States for a number of industrial applications. Both CNG and LNG infrastructures can be built to ensure that environments without pipeline access can receive year-round automatic deliveries.

Converting from Propane to Natural Gas

Whether liquidated or compressed, natural gas can be used in a number of different ways for electricity, indoor heating, or even, as a transportation fuel. If you’re wondering whether your propane-powered equipment can be converted to natural gas, our solutions are designed to help.

Get in touch with our team of experts for a natural gas solution catered to your specific industry.