Imagup General Magazine 2024
Everyone wants to spend less on their utilities but still enjoy a plentiful supply of energy for all their household needs, such as heating up their home during harsh Pennsylvania winters. However, with rising inflation and skyrocketing energy bills, it can seem nearly impossible to cut that budget without shivering and suffering.
There’s a better way than relying on the power grid for heating, cooking, and hot water: propane. Today, we’ll discuss what propane is, the many uses of propane, and why it is the safest choice for Lancaster County residents looking for freedom from utility companies. By the end of this article, you’ll be hunting down propane tanks for sale so that you can provide cleaner, safer energy for your whole family.
Propane is a highly refined product engineered for comfort and ease
First, let’s explain what propane actually is. This gas has three carbon and eight hydrogen atoms linked together in a specific form, and it belongs to the alkane family of hydrocarbons. It’s not a natural gas; rather, it’s a byproduct of natural gas production, as it is removed from natural gas in the refining process to make the original product less flammable as it moves through a home. Its molecular formula means that it produces less byproducts than natural gas when it combusts, meaning that it’s perfect for those looking to live a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.
One of the other reasons that propane is so attractive as an energy source is because it can be compressed much more than natural gas while still maintaining safety. Natural gas can’t be compressed without an extreme amount of pressure, which makes it incredibly dangerous should there ever be a leak in a storage tank. Thus, those wanting to have their own energy source that is not connected to the grid should always rely on propane, which can be compressed with much less pressure into a smaller and easily transported tank.
This gas has a variety of household uses
If you’ve never used propane, you might not think much about exactly what the gas piped into your home is actually used for; you might think about the small flame on a water heater, or the flames on a gas stove, but not really appreciate all that gas does to provide comfort in a house.
Propane can be used for every application of natural gas, but it’s stored on your property rather than piped in by a utility company. This gas can be used for your hot water heater, ensuring that you can enjoy steamy showers and wash your dishes with scalding water; it can also heat your home if you connect the lines to your heating system. Finally, it can be used on a stove just as natural gas can, ensuring you can cook up whatever you please no matter what.
That last component – autonomy from the gas grid – is far more essential than you think because propane also keeps you safe from fluctuations in supply and rising energy bills. Let’s discuss why propane is a safer option for your family, looking both at the small components and the big picture of larger disruptions.
Protect your family with a propane tank
There’s no getting around the fact that any combustible material is dangerous should it be mishandled, but propane dramatically lowers the risk through its special properties. Both on your property and in your neighborhood as a whole, you’re safer with a propane tank in your backyard than with your home hooked up to the gas pipelines, and here’s why.
Propane is much easier to transport and handle than natural gas, as it is more stable, meaning there are fewer risks of sudden combustion due to an error. As mentioned before, it can also be compressed at a much lower pressure, which also decreases risk. The tank installed on your property is designed to withstand severe weather, including temperature fluctuations, without any concerns – and if there are any, you can immediately call your propane supplier for help.
In contrast, natural gas is highly volatile and difficult to use safely – and the gas grid isn’t perfectly designed. Leaks in pipelines can occur for any number of reasons, including accidents, bad weather, and construction, which can both shut off gas to your home and potentially put you and your family in danger. Gas companies do perform checks on their lines, but with so many miles of pipe exposed to all manner of everyday hazards, there is bound to be a leak at some point.
Propane Safety and Regulations
Propane safety and regulations are critical aspects to consider when using propane as a fuel source. Propane is a highly flammable gas that requires specific handling and storage procedures to ensure safe use. Regulations and codes have been established by regulatory bodies such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to govern propane use. These regulations address areas such as the proper installation and maintenance of propane systems, the use of appropriate equipment and materials, and training requirements for individuals working with propane. Adherence to these regulations and codes is essential for preventing accidents and ensuring the safe use of propane.
With a propane tank, your energy source is stored right on your property, which means there are far less variables that could imperil your gas supply. The tanks are also meticulously designed and regularly inspected by the propane vendor, so you’re certain that you’re getting a product that is perfectly secure.
Propane is a product with an enormous amount of applications, and it vastly outshines natural gas in terms of safety and ease of use. There’s no question that you should consider switching to propane by contacting a trusted supplier – you’ll be so glad you did.
