LPG vs Natural Gas: What’s the Difference?

Gas usage is a common feature in many Australian homes, providing essential energy for heating, cooking, and hot water. When it comes to choosing the right type of gas for residential use, homeowners often find themselves deciding between Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) vs natural gas.

Understanding the main differences between LPG and natural gas can help homeowners make informed decisions that best suit their needs and circumstances. This article compares natural gas and LPG, exploring the characteristics, costs and environmental impacts of each, as well as other important factors for residential use.

What is Natural Gas?

Natural gas is a widely used fossil fuel in homes across Australia. It primarily consists of methane gas, along with small amounts of other hydrocarbons that include:

• ethane
• propane
• butane

It might also include smaller amounts of gases like carbon dioxide, nitrogen and hydrogen sulphide as well as smaller traces of helium and water vapour. Raw natural gas is extracted from underground reservoirs and delivered directly to homes through an extensive network of pipelines. We typically receive it in its gaseous state, however, natural gas also comes in liquid form. You’re unlikely to ever use liquefied natural gas in the home, though.

Before it reaches the house, gas distribution companies add a harmless odourant compound called Mercaptan. This compound gives natural gas its strong rotten egg-like smell that helps in the detection of possible gas leaks in the home.

Common Uses of Natural Gas In The Home

In residential settings, natural gas is commonly used for heating, cooking, and hot water supply. Its continuous supply through pipelines means homeowners do not need to worry about running out of fuel or scheduling deliveries. Natural gas appliances are known for their consistent performance and ease of use.

Another advantage of natural gas is its relatively lower environmental impact when compared to other fossil fuels. It burns cleaner, producing fewer pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. This makes natural gas a more environmentally friendly option for households looking to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining energy efficiency.

What is Liquefied Petroleum Gas?

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is a versatile fuel commonly used in around 2 million Australian households. It is primarily composed of propane and butane, which are by-products of natural gas processing and petroleum refining. LPG is stored in a liquid state under pressure in gas bottles or tanks, making it easy to transport and store.

LPG gas is widely used in homes for purposes such as heating, cooking, and providing hot water. Its portability makes it an ideal choice for homes in rural or remote areas where natural gas pipelines are not available. Additionally, LPG appliances are known for their efficiency and quick heating capabilities.

One of the significant advantages of LPG is its higher energy content, which means it can produce a lot of heat energy in a short time. This efficiency makes it a popular choice for various household applications, ensuring a reliable and effective energy source for everyday needs.

Differences in Supply and Distribution

Liquefied petroleum is supplied to homes in gas bottles or LPG cylinders, which are delivered by gas suppliers. Homeowners need to monitor their LPG levels and schedule deliveries to ensure a continuous gas supply. This method is particularly useful in rural or remote areas where pipeline infrastructure is not available.

In contrast, natural gas is supplied through an extensive network of pipelines that deliver gas directly to homes.

The differences in supply methods also impact installation and maintenance. LPG systems require space for storing tanks and might involve additional costs for periodic tank inspections and replacements. Natural gas systems, on the other hand, require connection to the mains gas network but generally involve less maintenance and fewer interruptions, providing a seamless energy experience for homeowners.

Environmental Impact

When looking at natural gas vs LPG from an environmental perspective, each offers advantages over other fossil fuels, but there are distinct differences.

• LPG burns more cleanly than coal or oil, producing fewer pollutants. However, it does release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.
• The fact that the methane in natural gas burns more efficiently than the propane and butane in LPG means it’s often considered a cleaner option. This means lower carbon dioxide emissions per unit of energy produced.
• Note, however, that methane gas is a potent greenhouse gas. Leakage during extraction, transportation, and usage can significantly contribute to global warming.

Therefore, while natural gas has a lower carbon footprint during combustion, the overall environmental impact depends on managing methane leaks effectively.

Safety Considerations

Both natural gas and LPG require careful handling to ensure safety in residential settings.

LPG is stored under pressure in gas cylinders or tanks, which must be regularly inspected to prevent gas leaks. You’ll need to address any signs of corrosion or damage immediately to avoid potential hazards. Additionally, LPG is heavier than air. This means that leaks can accumulate in low areas, increasing the risk of explosion if not detected promptly.

Natural gas, being lighter than air, dissipates more quickly in the event of a leak. This reduces the risk of accumulation in a confined space. However, natural gas is highly flammable, and any leaks can pose a significant fire hazard. Homeowners should install gas detectors and maximise ventilation throughout the home to reduce these risks. Regular maintenance of gas appliances and pipelines by a licensed gas fitter is essential to prevent leaks and ensure safe operation.

Natural Gas vs LPG – Choose the Right Option for Your Home

Choosing between LPG and natural gas depends on various factors, including supply availability, cost, environmental impact, and safety considerations. LPG offers portability and is ideal for rural areas, while natural gas provides a continuous supply and is often more convenient for urban homes.

There are clear advantages and drawbacks on either side of the natural gas LPG debate, so homeowners should assess their specific needs and circumstances. Consulting with a professional gas fitter can help determine the best energy solution for each household. By making an informed choice, homeowners can ensure efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly energy use in their homes.

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