Propane Myths Debunked

From Efficiency to Emissions and More: Separating Fact from Fiction

Myth number 1: Propane is just for camping. For many folks, propane is primarily for grills, RVs and mobile homes. In fact, it’s a popular choice for many homes—and businesses—because it’s a clean-burning and efficient source of energy that has a wide range of uses in a modern home. For other folks, there’s a lot of misunderstanding about propane, especially about its environmental impact and safety.

But the fact is, when it comes to heating your home, cooking meals, and powering appliances, propane is a smart and sustainable choice. Let’s set the record straight!

Myth #1: Propane Is Bad for the Environment

Here’s the truth: Propane is one of the cleanest-burning fuels available. It’s nontoxic, does not contaminate soil or water, and emits significantly fewer greenhouse gases than gasoline, diesel, or even grid electricity in many regions. It’s also designated a clean alternative fuel under the Clean Air Act. Plus, with the development of renewable propane—a byproduct of sustainable feedstocks—homeowners can further reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying the same performance.

Myth #2: Propane Is Less Efficient than Electricity

Propane generates more Btus than an equivalent amount of electricity, so you need much less propane to produce the same amount of heat or energy. Also, propane appliances are very efficient, so they waste very little fuel in the combustion process. While electric appliances are very efficient, keep in mind that the generation of electricity is the second-largest creator of greenhouse gases in the United States. That’s because much of our electricity supply is still generated by coal-fired power plants. (Only the transportation sector creates more greenhouse gases.)

Because propane is so efficient, it’s a smarter choice than electricity for a wide variety of appliances, in addition to heating your home. For example, propane water heaters generate much more hot water at a cheaper cost per gallon. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes that heat water with propane rather than electricity can see average annual savings of $174.

Myth #3: Gas Stoves Are Bad for Indoor Air Quality

There’s been a lot of recent attention on gas stoves and indoor air quality. While it’s true that any cooking—whether with gas or electric—can release particulates, modern propane stoves burn much cleaner than older natural gas systems. And some of the stories about gas stoves and indoor air quality are a bit misleading: While natural gas stoves can potentially emit methane, a potent greenhouse gas, propane contains no methane.

In fact, propane has a lower carbon content than other fossil fuels, which means it produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions and less carbon monoxide when burned.

As a Matter of Fact

Did you know propane is also an American energy source? About 90% of the United States’ supply of propane is domestically generated. Most of it comes from the processing of natural gas—which is considered a greenhouse gas when burned. Propane is not considered a greenhouse gas.

In a nutshell, propane appliances deliver more power for your energy dollar, all while protecting the environment. It’s a win-win for homebuyers—and builders—who care about the environment, but also want to keep costs under control.

Whether you’re ready to make the switch, or have more questions, talk to the team at Admiral Propane. We’ve got the knowledge, experience and resources to separate the fact from fiction and explain the benefits of propane for your home. And, you can count on us for reliable propane delivery and more.

Contact us for more information today.