What is propane used for?
Propane is one of the most versatile energy sources in the world that has many uses, both domestic and industrial. There are multiple propane uses that people may not consider. This article will explore a few of the domestic and business uses of propane so consumers can be informed about their options before purchasing this popular LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas).
What is propane?
Also known as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), propane is a clean-burning fuel used for diverse domestic, commercial, and industrial applications. Propane is a gas that is compressed and stored as a liquid in large outdoor tanks or portable cylinders. It is non-toxic, colorless, and odorless (an identifying odor is added to propane so it can be detected for safety purposes).
The popularity of propane uses around the world is due to a number of factors, such as:
- It is versatile and can be used in a wide variety of domestic and industrial applications
- It is safe to handle and transport, compared to some other fuels
Propane uses for indoors vs outdoors
Propane can be used for indoor and outdoor and for domestic and business users.
Propane for domestic use
50 million Americans use propane in some capacity; 11.9 million of them use propane to heat their homes and water. The reasons propane is such a popular domestic energy source are availability, affordability, and efficiency.
Compared to natural gas, propane is more concentrated and burns hotter, which means you need less of it to generate the same amount of BTUs (British Thermal Units). This fact saves domestic propane customers money over time. Propane is also available to customers in rural settings because it is delivered instead of piped into homes.
Popular domestic uses of propane indoors:
- Heating homes: According to the U.S Department of Energy, heating a home with propane costs far less than heating with an electric system.
- Heating water: Propane water heaters are more effective an efficient than electric, which is why millions of American homes use propane to heat water.
- Cooking: Cooking with propane is far more cost-efficient than using electric ranges. Cooktops and ovens heated with propane provide better heat control and turn off faster than electric, making them safer.
- Drying clothes: Many American households have propane-powered clothes dryers because they offer faster drying and are easier on fabrics. They also cost far less to operate than electric models.
Popular domestic uses of propane outdoors:
- Grilling: Propane grilling is a healthier option than char-coal because propane is non-toxic and produces fewer emissions.
- Patio heating: Patio heaters give you more control over the heat output, can cover a larger area than electric, and are more cost effective to operate than electric heaters.
- Outdoor fireplaces: Propane fireplaces and fire pits are safer to operate than wood-fired because you can turn them off instantly. They are also easier to use and provide a constant heat source outdoors.
- Heating pools: Heating pools with propane is more cost-effective and efficient because propane provides more heat and costs less than electricity. Pools also heat faster when heated with propane.
- Backup generator: Because propane is a more-efficient fuel than natural gas, using it to power backup generators is a good option. Also, natural gas is grid-reliant, while propane is stored on-site at your home.
Propane for industrial use
Propane is a versatile fuel excellent for various business applications. There are many industrial propane uses because the energy source is safe, clean, and efficient. Propane is often used commercially as an alternative fuel for vehicles because it is cheaper than gasoline and diesel fuel, and it has a much lower carbon footprint.
Popular business uses of propane
Many businesses use propane because it can deliver energy to off-grid construction sites, fuel large hotels, power kitchens, and run heavy equipment used in agriculture. Here are some of the many industries that utilize propane:
- Construction: Propane is popular on construction sites. Propane dispensers can be delivered and set up to any construction site to fuel operations where no electric hook ups are available. Propane can also be used to efficiently fuel construction vehicles and heavy equipment.
- Hospitality: 5-star hotels and kitchens rely on propane to heat rooms and fuel kitchens. Propane allows the hospitality industry to keep costs low while providing the most efficient heating and cooking source available.
- Agriculture: Propane uses in agriculture include drying crops, fueling vehicles, and providing heat for livestock. Propane is one of the top fuel sources in agriculture because it can be delivered to remote rural areas.
- Oil & Gas: The oil and gas industry relies on propane as one of the main fuel sources to run oilfield operations. Oil fields are typically in remote locations without electricity sources. Propane can be delivered anywhere and dispensers set up to satisfy all of your on-site energy needs.
- Warehousing: Warehouses are typically large, open indoor spaces that require a lot of heat and energy. Propane provides warehouses the necessary heat and is the main fuel source for forklifts and other warehousing vehicles.
Conclusion: How is propane used in your home or business?
Propane uses are seemingly limitless. LPG fuels homes and businesses across America, which is why you need a propane provider with the tools necessary to keep you up and running all year long.
Pinnacle Propane has the expertise to safely deploy propane in accordance with all national, state, and local laws and regulations. We provide our customers with the convenience and cost-effectiveness of having propane delivered directly to you whenever you need it.
Contact Pinnacle Propane to schedule a delivery, to inquire about the correct tank or cylinder size, or to ask about switching to propane.
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