Choosing the Right Fuel: Propane vs. Natural Gas for Water Heaters

If you are looking for a new water heater, you might be wondering which fuel type is best for your needs: propane or natural gas. 

Both are popular options for heating water efficiently and cleanly, but they have some key differences to consider before deciding. 

You’re in luck! This blog post compares propane and natural gas, focusing on water heaters to answer the ultimate debate – which is better, gas or propane?

Propane and Natural Gas, Are They the Same Thing?

Propane and natural gas are both fossil fuels that can be used for various purposes, such as cooking, heating, and powering appliances. However, they are not the same thing. 

Propane is a by-product of natural gas processing or crude oil refining. It is mostly composed of hydrocarbons, such as ethane and butane. Natural gas is a mixture of gases that are found in underground reservoirs. It mainly comprises methane but contains other gases, such as propane.

Identifying Key Differences Between the Two Fuels

• Propane is usually stored in liquid form in tanks or cylinders that can be transported to your home. 
• Natural gas is usually delivered through pipelines that connect to your home’s gas meter. 
• Propane has a higher energy density than natural gas, meaning it produces more heat per unit of volume.
• Propane costs more per gallon than natural gas, but it may be more cost-effective in the long run due to its higher efficiency.
• Propane is considered cleaner and more environmentally friendly than natural gas, especially if it comes from renewable sources.
• Propane and natural gas have different safety risks and require different appliances and equipment.

Choosing a Fuel for My Water Heater, Which Is Better – Natural Gas or Propane?

If you are still undecided about which fuel type to use for your water heater, here are some factors to think about:

Availability: Check if you have access to natural gas pipelines in your area or can easily get propane delivered to your home. 

Efficiency:  When comparing natural gas and propane, the energy output from propane is about double that of natural gas per cubic foot.

Cost: Natural gas is cheaper per unit than propane, but propane is more energy-efficient and may save you money in the long run. Also, compare the upfront cost of buying and installing a propane or natural gas water heater as well as the ongoing cost of fuel and maintenance.

Safety: Both gases are flammable and require proper ventilation. But natural gas is more prone to leaks and explosions than propane.

Environmental effects: Although more research is needed, propane is cleaner and more eco-friendly than natural gas, especially if it comes from renewable sources. However, natural gas is also considered a clean fuel, particularly compared to other fossil fuels.

Appliances: Propane and natural gas require different appliances and equipment; some may need to be converted or adjusted to work with either gas.

Things to Consider with Propane and Water Heaters

If you choose to use propane for your water heater, here are some things that you should keep in mind:

Propane tanks

You will need to buy or rent a propane tank that can store enough fuel for your water heater. You will also need to monitor the propane level in your tank and schedule regular deliveries or refills.

 Propane regulators

You will need to install a propane regulator to control the pressure and flow of propane from your tank to your water heater. You will also need to check the regulator for leaks or damage periodically.

Propane lines

You will need to run propane lines from your tank to your water heater. You will also need to protect the lines from freezing, corrosion, or damage by animals or insects.

Venting system

You will need to install a venting system that can safely exhaust the combustion gases from your water heater to the outside. You will also need to clean the venting system regularly to prevent clogging or blockage.

Final Verdict

Propane and natural gas are viable options for heating water efficiently and cleanly. However, they have some differences that you should consider before deciding. 

The best choice for you depends on your personal preferences, budget, availability, and environmental concerns. When choosing a water heater, you should also consider other factors such as size, model, installation, and maintenance.

Whichever fuel you decide on, you’ll need the best water heater to do the job. And there is only one place you can trust – Marey! 

 Visit our online store today. 

Photo by EJ Strat on Unsplash