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What is Propane?
Propane
is a liquid stored under pressure in tanks and cylinders. In most
systems, propane is vaporized to a gas before it leaves the tank or
cylinder and then is dispensed through a pressure regulator to your
appliance.
In its natural state, propane is an odorless,
colorless gas. A chemical odorant is added to propane to give it a
distinctive smell so the presence of propane can be detected. Propane
is a convenient, versatile, and economical fuel for vehicles and
appliances (such as ranges, water heaters, and furnaces).
Some warnings about propane:
- Propane is heavier than air and may collect initially at low levels.
- Always look and smell for propane before attempting to light appliances.
- Propane gas detectors can increase the likelihood of detecting
a propane leak. Propane gas detectors should be installed near floor
level. (Also, consult the manufacturer’s instructions for proper
placement of propane gas detectors.)
Uses for Propane
When
used properly, propane is a safe, economical, clean burning,
environmentally friendly, versatile fuel with many different uses such
as:
- Home heating, cooking, water heating
- Forklift operation
- Bar-b-que grills, smokers, fish fryers
- Temporary construction heating
- Vehicle fuel
- Commercial heating
- Industrial/process heating
- Crop drying and other agricultural uses
- RV heating, cooking, water heating. As with any energy
product, (gasoline, natural gas, electricity, fuel oil, wood, etc.) it
is important to respect, understand, and know how to safely use
propane, your propane system and appliances.
Sources: 1995 Phillips Petroleum Company,
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The pie chart shows the percentage of total gallons consumed by various market sectors. Source: National Study Conducted by Market Analytics, Inc., commissioned by the Propane Education & Research Council.
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