Propane Consultants, LLC

Q: How cost-effective would it be to switch to propane as my fuel source?

A: Propane operating costs for fleet vehicles range from 5 percent to 30 percent less than conventional or reformulated gasoline. Overall, propane is the least expensive alternative to gasoline.

Q: How does propane affect engine performance?

A: Fleet operators report horsepower and torque capability roughly comparable to gasoline. Because propane is a less dense fuel than gasoline, power might decrease slightly, but operators rarely notice this loss. Fuel economy on new engines is also comparable to that of gasoline.

Q: Is propane really a safer fuel for the environment?

A: Tests conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency show that and about 50 percent fewer toxics and other smog-producing emissions. Propane is also listed as an approved alternative fuel in the 1990 Clean Air Act and the Energy Policy Act of 1992.

Q: Is refueling difficult with propane?

A: No. Refueling is simple and quick. Propane’s pumping rate, 10 to 12 gallons per minute, is comparable to that of gasoline. This translates into savings in time and money compared with other alternative fuels. Because propane is delivered through a sealed system (thereby protecting the environment), a simple screwed connection is used. Vehicles can be refueled at nearly 10,000 sites across the country.

Q: Is propane safe?

A: Yes. Propane vehicle tanks are tested to four times the normal operating pressures, and the tanks are 20 times as puncture resistant as gasoline tanks. Propane is nontoxic, nonpoisonous, and has the lowest flammability range of any alternative fuel.

Q: How can I make the switch to propane as an alternative fuel?

A: Qualified conversion contractors can convert almost any gasoline-powered vehicle to propane. Conversions cost between $2,500 and $3,500 – a cost that would quickly be recovered through lower maintenance and fuel costs associated with using propane. Part of these conversion costs may be deducted from federal taxable income. Also, more automakers are responding to increased demand for alternative-fueled vehicles by manufacturing factory-equipped propane-powered vehicles. For more information on conversions, go to the U.S. Dept. of Energy’s Alternative Fuel Data Center Web site.

Q: Is propane widely used?

A: Yes. Propane has been used as a commercial motor fuel for more than 80 years, and more than 190,000 propane-powered vehicles are in use today in the United States-more than 9 million are in use worldwide. Propane has become the leading alternative fuel in the United States and in the world.

Q: How many vehicles are powered by propane in the U.S.?

A: According to the Energy Information Administration, there are these many LPG powered vehicles roaming U.S. highways:

2004 194,389 (projected)
2003 190,438
2002 187,680
2001 185,053
2000 181,994
1999 178,610
1998 177,183
1997 175,679
1996 175,585
1995 172,806

If you think you smell propane in your home, camper, RV or the area around any gas equipment, or if a gas alarm signals the presence of propane, you should IMMEDIATELY follow these suggestions:

• Extinguish all smoking materials and any other open flames or sources of ignition. Everyone should vacate the building, vehicle or area.
• Move away without using any electric switches, appliances, thermostats, or telephones.
• Close the gas shutoff valve on the propane tank or cylinder.
• Call your propane supplier and/or your local fire department from a cellular telephone or a neighbors telephone.
• Even if you do not continue to smell propane, do not open or turn on the propane supply valve. Do not re-enter the building, vehicle or area. Let a qualified propane service technician and/or emergency personnel check for escaped propane.
• Have a properly trained propane service technician repair the leak. The propane service technician or emergency responder needs to determine that the leak situation has been fully resolved. The propane service technician should check all of your gas appliances and re-light any appliance pilots.
• Return to the building, camper, RV or area only when the service or emergency technician indicates it is safe to do so.

Propane Grill Do’s:

• Always use the grill outdoors in a well-ventilated area. Do not bring propane cylinders indoors or into an enclosed space such as a garage or basement.
• Always follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions and keep written materials and manuals in a safe, accessible place.
• Make sure the grill burner controls are turned off. Keep the cylinder valve closed when not in use.
• Make sure the gas grill is shut off and cooled off before covering your grill after use.
• Always use or store cylinders in an upright, vertical position. Store them outdoors away from sources of ignition.
• When you have your cylinder refilled, have your supplier check for dents, damage, rust or leaks.
• After filling, take your cylinder home immediately. Keep your vehicle ventilated with the cylinder valve closed and plugged or capped. Do not leave the cylinder in your car.
• When your grill is not in use, cover disconnected hose-end fittings and burner air intakes with small plastic bags, or obtain protective fitting caps from your propane supplier to keep out dirt, insects and moisture.
• Before lighting your propane gas grill burner, use a leak-detection solution to check all connections for tightness. Contact your local propane gas supplier to obtain the leak-detection solution and instructions on how to use it.
• Never use matches or lighters to check for leaks.
• If there is a significant and uncontrollable release of gas or a fire, call the fire department immediately and move all people and pets away from the unit.

Propane Grill Don’ts:

• Do not smoke while handling the propane cylinder.
• Do not leave the cylinder in your vehicle.
• Do not use matches or lighters to check for leaks.
• Do not allow children to tamper or play with the cylinder or grill.
• Do not use, store or transport your cylinder where it would be exposed to high temperatures. (This includes storing spare cylinders under or near the grill.)

Propane Gas Range Do’s:

• Follow the manufacturer’s installation and operating instructions.
• Have your unit serviced if the burner flame is not blue. The blue flame indicates complete combustion. A yellow flame means air inlets are clogged or burners need to be adjusted.
• Keep pot handles turned inward.
• Schedule regular preventive maintenance checks for your appliances.
• Keep the range surface clean.

Propane Gas Range Don’ts:

• Do not cover the oven bottom with foil – it can restrict air circulation.
• Never use gas ranges for space heating.
• Never allow children to turn the burner control knobs on your propane gas range.
• Do not leave food simmering unattended.
• Keep flammable materials away from burner flames.