Facts about the Propane Industry

Do you have questions regarding the propane industry? GeneratioNext Propane Pros has the answers. Keep reading to view FAQs concerning the propane industry.

Q: What is Propane?

A: Propane is a hydrocarbon (C3H8), also known as Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), is a gas normally compressed and stored as a liquid. It is nontoxic and odorless; a chemical odorant (Ethyl Mercaptan) is added to help users detect leaks by way of an easy-to-identify rotten-egg smell.

Q: Is Propane Environmentally Friendly?

A: Yes! Contrary to popular belief, propane is not a greenhouse gas and is an approved clean fuel listed in the 1990 Clean Air Act. Substituting propane for other fuels such as gasoline and fuel oil is an economical and viable step toward cleaner air. Using propane reduces the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide and air pollutants like carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxide (NOx).

Propane is made in America. In fact, the United States is a net exporter of propane, which means we make more than enough to meet demand. In the wake of the shale revolution, domestic propane supply has greatly increased, and this fuel can now do even more to advance America’s energy security and protect the environment.

Q: Is Propane Safe?

A: Propane has a strong safety record, and it is stored, transported, and used in accordance with stringent codes and regulations. The propane industry has developed numerous methods to ensure the safe transport and use of propane:

• Propane equipment and appliances are manufactured to rigorous safety standards.
• Propane has a narrow range of flammability when compared with other petroleum products. In order to ignite, the propane-air mix must contain from 2.2 to 9.6 percent propane vapor. If the mixture contains less than 2.2 percent gas, it is too lean to burn. If it contains more than 9.6 percent, it is too rich to burn.
• Propane won’t ignite when combined with air unless the source of ignition reaches at least 940 degrees Fahrenheit. In contrast, gasoline will ignite when the source of ignition reaches only 430 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
• If liquid propane leaks, it doesn’t puddle but instead vaporizes and dissipates into the air.
• Because it is released from a pressured container as a vapor, propane can’t be ingested like gasoline or alcohol fuels.

Q: What Is Propane Used For?

A: Propane is a versatile fuel and is most commonly used in home comfort equipment such as furnaces, water heaters, clothes dryers, fireplaces, grills, stoves, pool heaters, space heaters, and more. When used for engine applications, such as forklifts, mowers, generators, irrigation engines, and even on-road vehicles, propane is known as AutoGas. Propane applications are continually growing due to new technology developments.

Q: What Type of Careers Are Available in the Propane Industry?

A: There is a variety of opportunities: service technicians, delivery drivers, customer service representatives, sales, transport drivers, service management, and internships and apprenticeships. Click here for propane career opportunities.

Q: What Is It Like to Work for a Propane Company?

A: With a career in the propane industry, you won’t just be doing a job. You’ll be part of a team that’s building communities and protecting the environment for the next generation. From homes and businesses to farms and fleets of vehicles, propane keeps America running.

Q: Does the Propane Industry Offer Room for Professional Growth?

A: Those currently in high-level positions generally started out as a service technician, delivery driver, or even an apprentice. With openings at all levels, those with a get-it-done attitude have the opportunity to advance.