What Is Propane?

Written on: October 24, 2022

Propane — An Affordable, U.S.- Made Fuel

Most people are familiar with propane to some degree – especially if they enjoy outdoor grilling – but do you know what it actually is and how it’s made? Read on to learn more about what propane is and how this clean-burning natural fuel can help make your life easier and your space more comfortable.

What is propane and where does it come from?

• This low-carbon-content fuel is made primarily from domestic natural gas. In the U.S., propane occurs as a byproduct of natural gas processing. When condensation is removed from natural gas pipelines, the propane is then collected.
• Even though propane is nontoxic, colorless, and odorless, suppliers add a rotten-egg scent to propane to make any leaks simple to detect. Leaks don’t commonly occur though, so long as propane is stored properly.
• Propane occurs in a gaseous form but is stored as a liquid because it’s easier to transport that way. Liquid propane is nearly 270 times more compact as a liquid than in its gas form.

Propane is an ideal fuel for many purposes, even beyond your water heater and heating your home with your furnace, boiler, space heater, or fireplace. A smart choice over other fuels, it’s also useful for stoves and grills, as well as for outdoor use, including lawnmowers, pool heating, and outside lighting. And the peace of mind is never far off when you have a propane-fueled generator.

Propane is energy-efficient and affordable

This comes as a surprise to many people, but homes that are run on electricity are actually less energy efficient than those running on propane. And it is pretty straightforward – propane gives a big bang for your buck on your energy bills. Since propane naturally burns hotter, it feels warmer, and the energy produced creates a larger impact. Your utility bills will cost less with such an efficient fuel working for you, especially when paired with propane appliances.

Propane is safe

Lakes Gas technicians are trained to keep you and your family safe – it’s our number one priority. Our staff is certified by the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA), in cooperation with the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC). Propane has an excellent safety record, and we’re proud to be a part of that.

Propane is a sustainable fuel solution for businesses and modern farms

Businesses throughout the region choose propane delivery and propane services in order to best serve their customers. This cost-effective fuel is environmentally friendly and incredibly efficient, making it an ideal choice for a wide variety of commercial operations, including construction, forklift operations, temporary heating, autogas fleets, cylinder exchanges, and more.

From crop drying to coop heating and beyond, propane is the ideal fuel for modern farms and it’s used by about 320,000 farms in the U.S. today. You’ll see lower fuel costs with propane-powered irrigation engines, which deliver high horsepower and low emissions. And crop drying with propane offers such highly efficient performance that you’ll make the most of your profit potential while minimizing any crop loss.

Propane is reliable

Lakes Gas has an extensive background in delivering propane to homes, farms, and businesses throughout the Upper Midwest, especially in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

• Propane is home-grown: Being American-made doesn’t automatically protect propane from market fluctuations, but it does mean this fuel is more insulated from the impact of the global market.
• No need to rely on the power grid: When a power outage comes along, people who rely on electricity may be powerless – literally – for days, or longer. With propane, you don’t have this risk.
• Your supply, your decision: Since your tank is on your own property, you can store the fuel you need, and avoid dealing with any potential shortages that occur in your community.

Trust Lakes Gas with your propane needs

Family-owned for over 60 years, Lakes Gas is among the largest propane providers in the Upper Midwest. But don’t let our size fool you: At each of our 48 locations, we operate with a small-town, local feel, with employees who live in the communities they serve. We make it a priority to pay personal attention to each and every one of our customers. Take your comfort up to the next level with propane.

For reliable propane delivery and equipment installation and service in the region, contact us to become a part of the Lakes Gas family today.