What is Propane?
Propane is also known as Liquefied Petroleum (LP) gas. It is a by-product of crude oil and natural gas refining, popularly used as a source of fuel. It is a non-toxic, colorless and odorless gas. About 97% of propane that is used in the U.S is majorly produced in North America. A unique odor is added to liquefied propane at the refinery for it to be detected easily. It is a hydrocarbon (C3H8), gas that burns much cleaner in comparison to diesel, gasoline and other fossil fuels.
Is propane safe for the environment?
Yes. The gas is approved as a clean alternative fuel listed in the 1990 Clean Air Act. Propane is a nontoxic gas that does not contaminate soil or aquifers. Tests have proven that propane fuelled vehicles produce 30%-90% less carbon monoxide and about 50% less toxins compared to gasoline engines.
Who uses propane?
Propane is used by over 12.6 million people is the U.S for space heating and other purposes at home. Millions of other Americans use the gas for industrial, commercial and agricultural applications. On the farms, the gas is used on equipment for controlling pests and running irrigation pumps. For industrial purposes, propane is used in driving forklifts and fleet vehicles. Other establishments that make use of propane include hotels and restaurants, where the gas is used for cooking and heating among other uses.
Is it convenient to use propane?
Yes. The retailers of the gas throughout the country make it readily available by delivering it to homes. Tanks used for storing propane are environmentally friendly and require little maintenance and are also durable, lasting for over 40 years. The availability of the gas in liquid form makes it easily portable, hence a convenient fuel for camping, grilling among other uses. Throughout the United States, there are over 6,000 retailers who make it available to different users and up to 56000 miles of pipeline of the gas. Learn more about how General Utilities can help you keep your home warm this season! Contact us below.