Propane vs Natural Gas: The Cleanest Way to Heat Your Home
When it comes to heating your home, choosing the right fuel source is a significant decision. Among the most popular fuels, propane and natural gas are frequently at the forefront of discussions.
Both are fossil fuels, providing reliable heat, but they possess distinct characteristics that can influence your choice. We’ll delve into the nuances of propane vs natural gas, helping you make an informed decision about the cleanest and most efficient way to keep your home warm.
At first glance, propane and natural gas share a lot of similarities. They are both clean-burning fuels that produce heat energy through combustion. However, a significant difference lies in their chemical composition and energy content.
Propane, or liquid propane (LP), is stored in a fluid state under pressure in a propane tank, becoming a usable fuel when released into its gaseous state. Natural gas, a naturally occurring gas, is delivered directly to homes through natural gas pipelines.
Understanding BTU Output and Efficiency
One of the most important differences between these two fuel types is their British Thermal Unit (BTU) output. A BTU is a unit of heat energy, representing the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
Propane offers a higher BTU output per unit of energy. This means that a cubic foot of propane, when burned, releases more heat energy compared to a cubic foot of natural gas. This higher energy content translates to less fuel being needed for the same amount of heat. This can be a significant advantage in colder climates or where quick temperature changes are required.
For instance, a gallon of propane contains approximately 91,500 BTUs, whereas a cubic foot of natural gas contains about 1,030 BTUs. To put it simply, for the same amount of heat, you will consume less propane than natural gas.
Conversely, natural gas is generally less expensive per BTU. However, its lower BTU output requires more fuel to achieve the same heating result. While the per-unit cost might be lower, the overall consumption needed for the same heat output can sometimes equalize the energy costs over the long run.
Environmental Impact: A Closer Look
Both propane and natural gas are considered cleaner-burning fossil fuels compared to alternatives like heating oil. When they burn, they produce carbon dioxide and water vapor, with relatively low emissions of other pollutants. This makes them a better choice for reducing your home’s environmental impact.
Fossil Fuels Compared
| Fuel Type | Primary Greenhouse Gas Concerns | Other Pollutant Concerns | Key Environmental Notes |
| Propane | Lower CO2 | Very low SOx | Burns very cleanly at home. Doesn’t pollute soil/water if it leaks (vaporizes quickly). Renewable propane offers even greener options. |
| Natural Gas | CO2 | Low SOx | Burns cleanly in your home. However, methane leaks from pipelines and drilling constitute a significant concern; methane is a powerful greenhouse gas (e.g., 80x more potent than CO2 |
| Heating Oil | Higher CO2 | High SOx | Dirtier to burn, contributing more to smog and acid rain. Spills can cause significant soil and water contamination. |
| Coal | Very High CO2 | Very High SOx | The dirtiest fossil fuel for heating. Releases the most CO2 |
| Electricity (from grid) | Varies greatly based on source | Varies greatly based on source | Highly variable: If generated from renewables (solar, wind, hydro), it’s very clean. If from fossil fuels (especially coal), overall emissions (from power plant to your home) can be higher than direct natural gas or propane use due to energy losses during generation and transmission. |
> CO2
> CH4
> SOx
> NOx
Propane is a byproduct of natural gas processing and crude oil refining. Its combustion produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions than many other fossil fuels. Propane also has a lower carbon footprint than electricity generated from many power grids, making it a “green fuel” in specific contexts.
Natural gas, while also a clean-burning fuel, does have some environmental considerations. Natural gas leaks, primarily of methane (a potent greenhouse gas), can occur from natural gas pipelines and infrastructure, contributing to global warming. However, ongoing efforts in the industry are focused on minimizing these fugitive emissions.
Accessibility and Infrastructure
The accessibility of these fuel sources often plays a critical role in decision-making. Natural gas relies on an extensive network of underground pipelines. If your home is connected to a natural gas line, you have a constant and convenient fuel source without the need for on-site storage. Utility companies manage the supply and billing.
Propane, on the other hand, is stored in a propane tank, typically an aboveground tank, at your property. This makes it an ideal choice for remote locations or rural areas where natural gas pipelines are not available.
Propane companies deliver the fuel to your tank, requiring scheduled refills. This offers independence from utility grids, but it necessitates managing your fuel supply.
Cost Considerations
The cost of heating your home is a significant factor to consider. Natural gas prices are often regulated and tend to be more stable, though they can fluctuate based on supply and demand. You typically pay a monthly bill based on your consumption.
Propane prices can be highly volatile, influenced by fluctuations in crude oil prices, transportation costs, and seasonal demand. You purchase propane in bulk, and the price per gallon can vary significantly between propane dealers.
While natural gas costs might seem lower per BTU, remember that you need more of it to achieve the same heat output as propane. This means that while natural gas is generally less expensive per BTU, the higher energy content of propane can sometimes offset this difference, especially when considering the overall energy costs.
Appliance Compatibility and Installation
When choosing between propane and natural gas, consider your existing or new appliances. Many common household appliances, such as gas grills, natural gas stoves, water heaters, and furnaces, are designed to operate on a specific fuel type.
For instance, a natural gas furnace cannot be directly used with propane without a conversion kit. These kits modify the gas valve and burner orifices to handle the different pressures and BTU outputs of propane. Similarly, a propane grill has small orifices designed for propane’s higher pressure, whereas a natural gas grill has larger orifices.
Let’s look at some examples of heating units to illustrate these differences:
Propane Heaters
For those in areas without natural gas lines or who prefer the flexibility of a propane tank, direct vent thermostatic heaters are excellent options. These units are wall-mounted and vent directly outside, providing efficient and safe heat.
Consider the Martin MDV20P propane heater. This robust unit offers 16,000 BTUs of output and is specifically designed for use with liquid propane. Its direct vent system ensures proper ventilation, and the thermostatic control maintains your desired temperature. Smaller options include the Martin MDV12P (8,800 BTU output) and the compact Martin MDV8P (6,400 BTU output), which are ideal for smaller spaces or supplemental heating.
These propane heaters are designed for easy wall mounting and come with a vent kit for straightforward installation. Their standing pilot ignition and thermostatic control offer reliable and consistent heating.
Natural Gas Heaters
If you have access to a natural gas line, direct vent thermostatic heaters are also available for natural gas, offering similar benefits of clean, efficient, and safe heating.
The Martin MDV20N provides the same 16,000 BTUs of output as its propane counterpart but is specifically designed for natural gas. It also features a direct vent system and thermostatic control for comfortable heating.
For smaller rooms, the Martin MDV12N (8,800 BTU output) and the Martin MDV8N (6,400 BTU output) are excellent choices. These natural gas heaters integrate seamlessly with your existing natural gas line and provide dependable heat without the need for fuel storage on your property.
Comparison of Martin Direct Vent Thermostatic Heaters
| Model | Fuel Type | Heating BTUs (Input) | Heating BTUs (Output) | Dimensions (W x D x H) | Net Weight (lbs.) | |
| MDV20P | Liquid Propane | 20,000 | 16,000 | 26″ x 8.25″ x 22.625″ | 47.4 | |
| MDV20N | Natural Gas | 20,000 | 16,000 | 26″ x 8.25″ x 22.625″ | 47.4 | |
| MDV12P | Liquid Propane | 11,000 | 8,800 | 15″ x 7.125″ x 22.625″ | 25.3 | |
| MDV12N | Natural Gas | 11,000 | 8,800 | 15″ x 7.125″ x 22.625″ | 25.3 | |
| MDV8P | Liquid Propane | 8,000 | 6,400 | 11.813″ x 7.125″ x 22.625″ | 23.1 | |
| MDV8N | Natural Gas | 8,000 | 6,400 | 11.813″ x 7.125″ x 22.625″ | 23.1 |
What about safety?
Both propane and natural gas are safe when handled and used correctly; however, they do have distinct safety differences.
Propane is heavier than air, meaning that if there’s a leak, it will sink and pool in low-lying areas. This can be a concern in basements or confined spaces.
Propane companies add an odorant, ethyl mercaptan, to give it a distinct smell, making leaks easier to detect. It is advisable to have a propane gas detector in your home, especially if you have a propane furnace or other propane appliances.
Natural gas is lighter than air, so it dissipates more quickly into the atmosphere in the event of a leak. It also contains ethyl mercaptan, which is added for easy detection. A natural gas detector is also a good safety measure to have.
Both types of fuel carry the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if appliances are not properly vented or maintained.
Regular inspection and maintenance of your heating system, as well as the use of carbon monoxide detectors, are crucial, regardless of your fuel type.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
Choosing between propane and natural gas ultimately comes down to your specific needs, location, and priorities.
> For homes in rural areas or without access to natural gas pipelines: Propane is often the ideal choice. Its portability in small tanks and large aboveground tanks, as well as the independence it offers, are significant advantages.
> For homes with existing natural gas lines: Natural gas typically offers a more convenient and often more cost-effective solution due to its direct utility connection and generally lower per-BTU price.
> For maximum energy efficiency and lower long-term energy costs: While both are efficient, considering alternatives like a heat pump in conjunction with either gas type can further enhance your home’s energy profile.
> For environmental consciousness: Both are better options than many other fossil fuels, but ongoing efforts to reduce natural gas leaks and the clean-burning nature of propane make them both strong contenders for a reduced carbon footprint.
Conclusion
Whether you choose the high heat output and portability of propane or the convenient, piped-in supply of natural gas, both fuel sources offer effective and clean ways to heat your home. By understanding their unique characteristics, considering your location, evaluating energy costs, and factoring in appliance compatibility, you can make an informed decision that will keep your home warm and comfortable for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is better, propane or natural gas?
The best choice depends on location, access to pipelines, and budget. Propane offers higher BTU/unit, suitable for remote areas. Natural gas is generally cheaper per BTU.
What are the disadvantages of propane?
Disadvantages include needing on-site storage tanks and managing refills. Propane prices can also be higher and more volatile than natural gas costs.
Which is cheaper to heat with propane or natural gas?
Natural gas typically has lower costs per British thermal unit (BTU). Propane has a higher BTU output per unit, resulting in less consumption, but overall costs depend on various factors.
Which is warmer, natural gas or propane?
Neither fuel is inherently “warm.” Heat produced depends on the appliance’s BTU output. Propane has a higher energy content per unit, requiring less fuel to produce the same amount of heat.