Natural Gas vs. Propane: Which Should You Choose?
Both natural gas and propane are popular fuel sources and for good reason. They’re both plentiful and easy to obtain, making them ideal for fueling or heating various appliances around your home or business. However, when you have a choice between the two, which is better? How are you supposed to choose between natural gas vs. propane? With so many benefits to both, it can be difficult to determine which is the best choice for you. To find out, keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons of each.
Natural Gas
As the name implies, natural gas is a naturally found resource all over the world. It’s found deep underground, pumped up to wells by natural gas companies. Once it’s brought to the surface, it’s then transported via pipes to homes, businesses, and wherever else it’s needed. This odorless gas is composed of methane, water vapor, and other chemical compounds that have proven to be an excellent and abundant fuel source.
-Pros
· Natural gas is a safe and reliable source used for fuel.
· It burns clean with few emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
· You can use most gas appliances even during power outages.
· Gas is relatively inexpensive, especially because it’s so efficient.
· Once your gas line is hooked up, you’ll never run out.
-Cons
· Although abundant, it’s technically a fossil fuel and non-renewable.
· Gas is highly flammable and hazardous if used incorrectly.
· It requires professional installation to run a line to your home.
· High upfront cost is associated with many gas appliances.
Propane
The propane you use to fuel or heat around your home is also known as liquefied propane gas. It’s found as a byproduct of natural gas production and oil refinement, making it an easily sourced fuel. With so many sources producing propane, it’s found abundantly throughout the country. In fact, more is typically produced than we can use! That means that finding propane is always possible since it isn’t scarce. It’s a versatile fuel source used to cook, heat, and power homes without relying on the electrical grid.
-Pros
· You can practically power your entire home just with propane.
· U.S.-approved “clean fuel” that’s friendly to the environment.
· Propane tanks are often portable and easily transported.
· You’ll save with this efficient and cost-effective fuel source.
· Propane is reliable and not dependent on electricity.
-Cons
· Propane is a non-renewable fossil fuel.
· Because it comes in tanks, you’re responsible for refilling your fuel source.
· Some regions require tanks to be buried or stored in a specific way.
Choosing Natural Gas vs. Propane
Each fuel type shares many of the same pros and cons. That can make it hard to pick between the two since they can both be used for so many different purposes. What it really comes down to is your personal preference. Depending on where you live, you might find that one is simply more convenient than the other. For example, does your home already have a natural gas line? If it does, it’s usually a matter of connecting that line to the appliance you’re intending to use it for. But if your house isn’t hooked up, you’re looking at underground lines and light construction/plumbing to get the gas to where it needs to be. That might involve tearing up your lawn and must always involve a licensed gas line installer. The benefit of undergoing a gas line installation is that you now have unlimited access to natural gas, and it’s permanent. That could be helpful in increasing your home value as well as a selling point if you’re considering selling in the future.
On the other hand, since propane is portable, there’s usually no installation required. However, some HOAs and regions require propane tanks to be stored in a very particular way. They might need to be buried or stored on a concrete pad, both of which require invasive construction. You also should consider that your propane tank will eventually run empty. If you’re using it as your main fuel source throughout your home, that could get costly and inconvenient. Again, though, it all depends on what you’re using each for and your current set up.
Where Can I Find Gas Line and Installation in Southwest Florida?
At Gas Service Center, we serve the Fort Myers area with professional gas and propane services. We’re a licensed service provider providing expert services for both your homes and businesses. If you’re starting from scratch, we’re here to offer our professional advice and services, including obtaining permits for whatever service you need. We can assess your needs, help you choose between natural gas vs propane, make a plan, and execute it to perfection so you can fuel your home without the need for electricity. Curious about what we can do for you? Contact us today to learn more!
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