|
|
|
What is Propane?
Propane gas is a clean-burning , versatile energy form that can be used as
a heating and cooking fuel in homes and commercial establishments, as a
motor fuel for many types of vehicles, as an industrial and agricultural
fuel and an emergency fuel in disaster areas and situations when
electrical service is interrupted. Propane is mostly used to provide
energy to users not served by natural gas.
Propane, or liquefied petroleum gas (LP gas) is both a liquid and a gas.
At normal atmospheric pressure and temperature, propane is a gas- a
non-toxic, colorless, odorless gas to which an identifying "rotten egg"
odor is added so it can be readily detected. Under moderate pressure it
becomes a liquid which vaporized into a clean burning gas when released
from its storage container. propane is 270 times more compact as a liquid
than as a gas, and thus is stored and transported as a liquid. propane gas
is manufactured to stringent recognized standards of the industry.
What can Propane Be Used For?
Heating cooking (indoor or outdoor), water heating, pool heating, clothes
drying, lighting, cooling, motor fuel, temporary heat fuel cells and
micro-turbines to generate electricity for homes and commercial
stand-alone units.
Can you use propane gas with all appliances?
Some appliances are specifically manufactured to use propane gas. some may
be converted from natural gas to propane use. Mobile or manufactured homes
and recreational vehicles must use appliances, such as manufactured homes
and recreational vehicles must use appliances such as water heaters and
heating equipment, which are approved by the American National Standards
Institute for propane use (each appliance should have a manufacturer's
label for its intended use). Also, air intakes are necessary when using
propane appliances in these homes but are not required for standard
housing equipment. Check with your prospective supplier of propane gas for
more details
Is propane gas a safe fuel?
Yes, when used properly. Like other energy sources, proper use and common
sense precautions must be followed. Although propane gas is naturally
colorless and odorless, an odorant is added to alert users in the event of
a leak. To be familiar with the odor of propane gas, ask your supplier for
a scratch and sniff pamphlet. Storage, use, handling and propane fuel
quality fall under the standards adopted by the National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA), and approved by the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI).
THE MOST COMMON ACCIDENTS INVOLVING PROPANE GAS ARE CAUSED BY FAILURE TO
COMPLY WITH THE MANDATORY SAFETY STANDARDS OR ABUSE OF GAS EQUIPMENT AND
APPLIANCES. Just like your home or car, your propane gas equipment and
appliances are an investment that need regular service and inspection. If
your propane equipment is not operating properly, be sure to call for
service immediately. It is recommended that consumers install carbon
monoxide and gas detectors in the unlikely event that your equipment
malfunctions. Ask your propane supplier to show you how to shut down your
system in case of an emergency.
Is propane gas readily available?
Approximately 80% of the propane consumed in the United States is produced
domestically. The remaining 20% is imported via pipeline, tanker ship,
railroad, or transport. Most propane is produced in Canada and the United
States. Propane is stored in underground caverns and aboveground storage
tanks for distribution through pipeline systems, railcars, and transport
trucks.
In Kentucky there are over 230 licensed propane dealers delivering propane
gas to consumers all across the state.
How is the price of propane gas determined?
Propane gas is a petroleum-based product and will typically follow the ups
and downs of the crude oil and natural gas markets. The propane gas
business is a competitive and each company sets its own pricing policy.
The price is not regulated by state, federal, or local government. Check
with your supplier for the pricing options they may offer.
What different pricing programs are available?
Your supplier or prospective supplier may offer a variety of different
pricing or payment programs. Inquire directly with them for details.
Who is responsible for maintaining the propane gas tank?
In most cases the propane gas company owns the tank and is responsible for
inspecting and maintaining it. for liability purposes, Kentucky law
prohibits other propane companies, or people other than the owner of the
tank, from servicing or filling the tank owned by another company unless
the action is authorized by the owner of the tank. if you own the tank,
you are responsible for maintenance and inspection.
How can I tell is I have a gas leak?
BY THE SMELL. As a protective measure for your safety, a strong odor is
added to the propane so that you will easily be able to detect the smell.
ask your propane supplier for scratch 'n sniff that will familiarize you
with the odor of propane. Make sure your entire family can recognize the
odor of propane gas.
It is critical that you maintain your propane gas system to ensure that it
operates safely and efficiently. There are nationally recognized programs,
such as G.A.S. CHECK (Gas Appliance System check), to help ensure your
system's safety and efficiency. Ask your propane dealer to perform an
inspection of your propane system; there may be an additional charge for
this service.
Under some conditions, such as when people have colds, allergies, or sinus
congestion, or there is a presence of strong cooking odors, you may not
smell a gas leak....therefore, it is recommended you install a propane
gas, carbon monoxide detector in accordance with the manufacturers
instructions
What should I do if I smell gas?
Take immediate action! if you smell gas in your house, camper, RV,
workplace or around any gas equipment take the following action:
1. Promptly get everyone out of the building, vehicle, RV, or area
2. Do not turn on or off light switches, appliances or thermostats, and do
not use the telephone. An electric spark could ignite the gas.
3. Call 911 from a neighbor's phone
4. Call our propane supplier's emergency number to report the problem from
a neighbors phone
5. Stay outside and away from the area until the problem has been
corrected.
|