If you’ve ever considered utilizing clean-burning fuel for your home, two choices have likely come up: natural gas and propane. But what’s the difference, and which one is right for you? Keep reading as we offer a bit of insight into the important differences between these two electrical grid alternatives.
What Is the Difference Between Propane and Natural Gas?
Natural gas and propane come from the same source: petroleum deposits. Natural gas is a lightweight aerosol gas composed of a single-carbon hydrocarbon, methane. Propane is a much higher-density liquid and is made up of a three-hydrocarbon structure. Propane is a byproduct of crude oil refining.
Storage and Delivery
For homeowners, the biggest difference between propane and natural gas is delivery. Natural gas is delivered through a series of pipes existing within the infrastructure of a town, neighborhood, or municipality. Propane, however, is stored in a private tank on a home or business owner’s property and feeds only one home. Natural gas availability is limited, while propane, barring HOA restrictions, can be delivered and installed pretty much anywhere.
Safety, Cost, and Environmental Impact
Both propane and natural gas are considered clean-burning fuels. Propane, however, takes the lead in environmental friendliness. Natural gas is a greenhouse gas that can contribute to global warming when damage to its infrastructure occurs. Propane, on the other hand, vaporizes quickly and won’t contaminate soil or groundwater. Propane is safer to deliver and is not subject to any issues that might arise with a municipal piping system like natural gas.
Cost-wise, propane has a higher energy density, meaning you need less to achieve the same input as natural gas. With propane, you pay by the tank refill and have no propane bill surprises.
Ultimately, the choice between natural gas and propane is up to each individual homeowner. But propane is the clear winner for those looking for a reliable, environmentally friendly, and affordable American-made fuel source.
Contact Advance Propane today to learn more about how propane can power your home and life.