WHAT IS PROPANE
Propane is clean, reliable, portable and a Canadian-made low-carbon energy solution. It enables homes and businesses to choose a cleaner fuel for almost any application.
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what is propane?
Propane is made up of carbon and hydrogen atoms and is a by-product of natural gas processing. It can also be made from crude oil refining, although most of Canada’s supply is produced from natural gas. Propane is a gas and can be liquified with pressure, making it easy to store and transport in liquid form. For example, the propane tanks used for grilling are filled with liquid propane. Once released from the container, the liquid reverts to its gaseous form. For this reason, propane is often referred to as Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG).
Due to the abundance of LPG in Canada, propane is the preferred fuel choice for many Canadians. It has a wide range of applications, powering household essentials like furnaces, kitchens, pools, and power generators. Additionally, it fuels various commercial operations in sectors such as construction, mining, and agriculture and is also used in efficient propane-powered vehicles.
WHERE DOES PROPANE COME FROM?
Propane is a by-product that originates from both natural gas processing and petroleum refining. Natural gas extracted from underground reservoirs contains a mixture of various hydrocarbons, including methane, ethane, propane, butane, and other gases. During natural gas processing, these components are separated, with propane being one of the liquefied petroleum gases (LPGs) obtained. This separation process isolates propane from methane and other gases for separate sale and use. Additionally, propane is produced during the refining of crude oil. Different fractions are separated based on their boiling points in this process, producing LPGs, including propane, as by-products. The refining process often involves cracking larger hydrocarbon molecules into smaller ones, which can also yield propane. Once extracted and refined, propane is stored and transported in its liquid form in pressurized tanks, owing to its low boiling point. This makes it easy to handle and use in various applications such as heating, cooking, fuel for engines, and as a feedstock in chemical synthesis.
WHAT IS PROPANE USED FOR?
Propane’s versatility and efficiency make it a valuable energy source for a variety of applications, from everyday household uses to critical industrial processes:
Heating - Propane is commonly used for home heating, either through central heating systems or space heaters. Many commercial and industrial facilities also use propane for space heating.
Cooking - Propane is used in gas stoves, ovens, and outdoor grills. Restaurants often use propane stoves and ovens for their cooking needs., ventilation, lighting, and equipment. These standalone systems automatically activate during power failures and require minimal maintenance due to their robust design.
Water Heating - Many households use propane-fueled water heaters.
Backup Power - Propane-powered generators provide backup electricity during power outages. Propane is important in emergency and disaster relief situations due to its portability and ease of use for heating, cooking, and powering equipment.
Forklifts - Propane is a popular fuel for forklifts, especially in indoor environments, due to its low emissions.
Commercial and Industrial Uses - Propane plays a vital role in various sectors. It powers irrigation pumps and crop drying in agriculture, supports manufacturing processes, fuels emergency power in hospitals, and is integral in producing everyday consumables.
Propane Autogas - Propane can be an alternative fuel for vehicles, and it is known as autogas. It’s popular in fleets of taxis, school buses, and other vehicles because it is cleaner burning and can be more economical than gasoline or diesel.
Camping - Propane is widely used in portable stoves, lanterns, and heaters. In RVs, it is used for heating, cooking, and refrigeration.
BENEFITS OF USING PROPANE
Propane offers numerous benefits across various applications, making it a popular choice for residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural uses. Here are some of the primary benefits of using propane:
✔ EFFICIENCY:
Propane has a high energy content per unit, making it an efficient fuel for heating, cooking, and other applications. Propane burns efficiently, producing more energy per unit than many other fuels.
✔ LOW-EMISSION:
Propane produces fewer greenhouse gases and pollutants than gasoline, diesel, and coal. It emits significantly less carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. Due to its cleaner combustion, propane has a lower environmental impact, contributing less to air pollution and smog.
✔ VERSATILITY
Propane is used in many different settings, including residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, and recreational contexts. Propane can be transported and stored in liquid form under moderate pressure, making it easy to use in remote locations and mobile applications like camping and RVs.
✔ RELIABILITY
Propane can be used independently of the electrical grid, ensuring that heating, cooking, and power generation can continue during power outages. Propane is widely available and less subject to the supply fluctuations that can affect other energy sources.
✔ COST-EFFECTIVENESS
Propane can be more cost-effective than other alternative energies, especially in areas where it is readily available. Its high efficiency can also result in lower overall energy costs. Appliances powered by propane, such as water heaters and furnaces, can be more energy-efficient and can lead to significant cost savings over time.
✔ SAFETY
Propane is non-toxic and poses no risk of contamination to soil or groundwater in the event of a leak. Propane systems are designed with safety mechanisms, including shut-off valves and pressure relief devices.
PROPANE FOR EFFICIENCY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Highlighting its eco-friendly nature, propane’s clean burn aligns with the increasing global focus on sustainability. It’s not just about reducing emissions; propane also plays a pivotal role in promoting a cleaner, greener future. Beyond its environmental benefits, propane is also economically efficient. Its high energy-to-volume ratio ensures that users get a robust performance with every use. Its combustion is effective, ensuring users receive the most energy for their money.† For those seeking a reliable, cost-effective energy source, Superior Propane is the ideal partner for all your energy needs, backed by years of expertise and commitment to excellence and reliability.
PROPANE CAN HELP
REDUCE EMISSIONS
PROPANE IS
cost-effective
PROPANE IS
Versatile
PROPANE IS
ENERGY Efficient
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THE RIGHT PROPANE TANK SIZE
Manage delivery and refill costs by finding the perfect tank to suit your needs. Our team is here to help.
THE PERFECT TANK
We help you determine the tank size that suits your needs, based on the appliances you are installing and expected propane usage. With our exclusive SMART* Tank™ Monitoring System, you will always have a safe, secure and steady fuel supply.
COMMERCIAL PROPANE
RESIDENTIAL PROPANE
Security of propane supply
Superior Propane ensures unparalleled security of supply, ensuring our customers never face interruptions. With decades of experience, we’ve established multiple fuel supply sources across Canada, guaranteeing a steady propane flow even during unexpected demand spikes, force-majeure events, and more.
Our vast storage facilities, combined with a strategic approach to inventory management, ensure we always have stock on hand.
With a robust and diversified distribution network encompassing railways, trucks, ships, pipelines, and even planes, we ensure bulk propane is available for delivery to every corner of the nation. Whether you’re in bustling urban centers or remote regions, Superior Propane is committed to delivering reliability. Our proactive approach and advanced technologies ensure our customers are always informed and prepared. Dive deeper into our commitment and discover why we stand as Canada’s premier propane provider. Learn more about Superior Propane security of supply.
propane for home
worry-free.
Enroll in one of our pricing plans and get all the benefits of propane at a cost that fits your needs.
Propane for business
Partner with Superior Propane to power operations efficiently and cost-effectively, from large industrial sites to small businesses. Its versatility ensures uninterrupted operations, while its clean-burning properties aligns with eco-friendly business practices.
Easy account management
Experience the ease of managing your residential or commercial propane needs anytime, anywhere with mySUPERIOR™. Schedule and monitor deliveries, pay bills, review payment history, and explore pricing plans at your fingertips.
ABOUT PROPANE FAQ
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Is propane safe to use and store?
We are your commercial propane experts. Whether you run a small or large business, we have propane tank sizes to suit your needs. Industries that can benefit from bulk propane delivery include:
- Restaurants and Catering Services
- Farming and Agriculture
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Schools and Hospitals
- Retail Businesses
- Hospitality
- Real Estate
- Warehouses and Storage Facilities
- Office Buildings
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How often do I need to refill my propane tank?
If your tank is appropriately sized for your usage, rule of thumb is generally two propane tank refills per year for non-heating applications. You may require more frequent tank refills if you're using propane as your main heat source plus auxiliary applications like a fireplace or stove. Keep in mind, the length of time may also depend on the size of your home, how many appliances run on propane, your indoor temperature setting if using as a main heat source, and outdoor temperatures to name a few factors. It’s essential to monitor usage and schedule timely refills to avoid running out of propane. -
How does propane compare to natural gas and electricity in terms of cost and efficiency?
The cost of propane is often less per unit of energy than electricity and can be more economical in areas without natural gas infrastructure. Propane has a higher energy content and efficiency, meaning you get more energy per unit. Compared to natural gas, propane appliances, such as water heaters and furnaces, can be more efficient and offer greater flexibility in off-grid locations. This efficiency results in potential cost savings over time.
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