1. What Can Propane Be Used ForPropane is a versatile energy form that can be used as a heating and cooking fuel in homes and commercial establishments, as a motor fuel for many types of vehicles, as a clean burning industrial and agricultural fuel and as an emergency fuel in a disaster areas. Propane is mostly used to provide energy to users not served by natural gas.
2. Is Propane Gas a Safe FuelYes, when used properly. Although propane gas is naturally colorless and odorless gas, an odorant is added before it is delivered to the consumer to alert users in the case of a leak. Most common accidents involving propane gas are caused by failure to comply with the mandatory safety standards or abuse of gas equipment and appliances. It is strongly recommended that propane consumers install carbon monoxide detectors and gas detectors in their homes as an added precaution.
3. Is Propane Gas Readily AvailableIn the past there have been no significant disruptions in supplying propane. Approximately 80% of the propane consumed in the United States is produced domestically. OF the remaining 20% which is imported via pipeline, tanker, boat or transport, a large percentage comes form Canada.
4. How is The Cost of Propane Gas DeterminedThe propane business is competitive and each company sets its own pricing policy. Most companies price propane so that the more you buy per year, the less you pay per unit.
Propane prices are usually based on the customer's estimated use. When the customer uses additional propane gas appliances, total consumption and cost increase, but the unit price may decrease.
This is all also dependant on wholesale price fluctuations as in any other fuels, this will vary depending on a number of factors. Advance planning by a consumer can help control these costs (i.e., budget plans, fixed price programs, etc.) Check with your local supplier for options they may offer.
5. How Does the Cost of Propane Gas Differ From Other FuelsNormally the propane gas company owns all equipment, including tanks and regulators. Therefore, the price of propane gas to the customer includes a charge of renting and maintaining equipment. For other fuels, the customer owns the equipment and the price covers only the fuel
6. Can You Use Propane Gas With All AppliancesSome appliances are specially manufactured to use propane gas. Some may be converted from natural gas to propane use. Mobile or manufactured homes and recreational vehicles must use appliances, such as water heaters and heating equipment, which are approved by the American National Standards Institute for proper propane use (each appliance should have the manufacturers label for it's intended use). Also, air intakes are necessary when using propane appliances in these homes, but are not required for standard housing equipment. Check with your prospective supplier of propane gas for more details.
7. What Methods Of Delivery Are AvailablePropane Gas is delivered in replaceable cylinders or by pumping fuel from large bulk delivery trucks into containers on the premises. The current common industry deliver method is a computerized automatic refill system. This means that you do not have to call your propane gas company to request a delivery. Based on the amount of past gas usage, a company representative will determine how frequently you will need your gas tank filled. However will-call delivery is available and requires you to contact your supplier before a delivery is made.
8. Who Is Responsible For Maintaining The Propane Gas TankIn most cases the propane gas company owns the tank and is responsible for inspecting and maintaining it. However, if you own the fuel tank, you are responsible for maintenance. The National Fuel Gas Code requires an inspection every time a delivery is made. The deliverer must check the tank for any surface bulges, leaks or loose fixtures.
9. How Can You Tell if There is a Gas LeakIt is critical that your propane supplier maintain your system in good operating condition. There are national recognized programs, such as Gas Check, to help ensure your systems safety. (The Consumer Product Safety Commission advises the use of the Gas Check program.)
The Smell is the biggest indicator of a gas leak, and an odorant is added for your safety. Your supplier should be able to provide you with a scratch and sniff test so that you can familiarize your self with its pungent odor. The smell should be similar to either rotten eggs or boiled cabbage and you should make sure that your entire family is familiar with the odor of propane.
However some conditions may inhibit your senses ability to detect the odorant such as sinus problems or other physical conditions, other competitive odors and allergies. It is recommended that you install a gas detector and a carbon monoxide detector as an added precaution.
IN THE CASE OF A SUPECTED LEAK, PLEASE VACATE THE PREMISES AND CALL YOUR LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT. PLEASE DO NOT ENTER THE PREMISIS UNTILL THE LEAK HAS BEEN CHECKED AND YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN AUTHORIZATION TO RE-ENTER.