Things to know about LPG

LPG or liquefied petroleum gas is a naturally occurring product of natural gas extraction and crude oil refining. Essentially, it is a type of fuel that is used by many households for cooking and heating systems.

What advantages do the use of LPG offer?

1.   Versatile

The use of LPG has become prevalent in all four corners of the world. Billions of people depend on LPG for fuel not just at home but in their business and cars, too. Not only can it be used for stovetops, but it can also be used to fuel hot air balloons and barbeque grills. For this reason, LPG is sometimes called a multi-purpose energy source.

2.   Modern and Efficient

LPG offers portability and accessibility to a clean, safe and efficient source of energy. It has no harmful irritants that can pollute the environment. It does not produce soot that may otherwise be harmful to the lungs.

3.   Controlled Temperature

When using LPG, you may adjust the temperature of your stovetop, grill, or heater. The best thing about this is it produces a constant temperature at a steady rate. So you don’t have to worry about damaging your utensils or a sudden change in water temperature when you are in the shower.

4.   Easy Installation

LPG comes in cylinder bottles where you can easily install the regulator. In case, you are hesitant to install it yourself, you may ask your friendly LPG delivery guy to do it for you.

5.   Cleaner and Greener Option

Compared to other types of fuel, LPG offers a cleaner and more eco-friendly option. It has a low sulphur content and black carbon emission, hence, producing minimal greenhouse gases.

6.   Safe and Reliable

LPG bottles do not effortlessly explode as you see in movies. Explosions only happen because of an accumulated leak in a confined space coupled with an ignition source. Other than this, LPG is regarded as safe and reliable for household use.

In case there is a leak, you will easily notice it because of the smell. In which case, simply turn off the appliance switch and the regulator immediately. Then open all the windows for ventilation and call your trusted LPG provider for assistance.

7.   Cost-Effective

A 45Kg gas bottle costs between $120 to $155 and you can use this for up to 244 days. However, this depends on the number of family members consuming the fuel. For an average family of 4 living in a 3-bedroom house, the average gas consumption for cooking and heating systems can last for up to 6 weeks.

If you are using electricity, your average monthly bill runs between $150 to $180. Let’s say you are using a $155 gas bottle for 6 weeks; it means that your monthly consumption would roughly be around $103. Thereby giving about $47-77 of savings per month in comparison to using electricity.

LPG Trivia

Now that you know how advantageous this fuel energy source can be in every household, here are some things you may want to know about LPG.

Did you know that…

• The iconic symbol of the Olympic flame is fueled by LPG?
• They need to add a distinct odour to the colourless and odourless LPG for the safety of consumers?
• It has a compression ratio of 1:240 making it very convenient to store, transport and distribute?
• LPG is now considered a renewable energy source?
• This is a combination of numerous gases including butane, propane, propylene and ethane?

LPG Safety Precautions

Generally, LPG is safe. Below are some precautionary guidelines to ensure safety when using gas.

Pressure Level of the Gas Bottle

While LPG bottles are engineered to withstand pressure, it is always safe to use them within the limits. Never surpass the maximum pressure of the gas bottle. It is best to always check your valve and make sure that the pressure level is not too high.

Gas Leaks

When your gas bottle leaks, you will smell a foul distinct odour. When this happens, close the regulator at once and open all windows and doors. Allow the air to ventilate and ask everyone to remain outside the house for a while.

To check where the leak is coming from, get a container and mix a spoonful of liquid soap and a couple of cups of water. Apply the soap solution to the gas bottle, tube, bottle joints and the area where the regulator is attached. You will notice that bubbles will form where there are leaks.

In case no bubbles are formed and you still smell the gas, call your LPG provider immediately.

Bottle Storage

Gas bottles should be stored in a cool dry place. Make sure that it is placed on a safe, sturdy platform or level ground in an upright position. Avoid placing it under direct sunlight and heat-emitting places.

Cold Burns

In case your skin gets direct contact with LPG like when there is a leak, it may cause slight to severe cold burns. When this happens, run to the nearest tap water supply and let the water run through the affected skin for 10 to 15 minutes. For severe burns, apply first aid immediately and visit the hospital for emergency treatment.

LPG Caters to many household needs, making it quite indispensable for daily living.

Learn more about LPG… Contact PlusGas today!