Propane, also known as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG/LP), is a commonly used popular energy source. Although it is under pressure and and stored as a liquid, it's normally used as a gas. So it comes into your home in liquid form and is pumped into a storage tank. Then the it comes out of the tank as a gas. These tanks are usually white or silver, which deflects the heat and keeps the pressure down. Propane is safe when used correctly. It is a clean valuable energy source which is also more convenient and flexible to use as compared with gasoline or diesel. However, all of them have some dangers and consumers should educate themselves about this kind of gas before using it.
Propane will cause frostbite if it comes in contact with human skin. It is sold in a tank or a cylinder and has no odor or color. That is what makes it dangerous. For this reason, manufacturers add chemicals to give it a smell (similar to rotten eggs, dead animals, or skunks) so people can tell when it's leaking . Another danger is that it is flammable when it mixes with oxygen. It's also dangerous if it comes in contact with electrical sparks, static electricity, or open flames. The vapors are heavier than air and can be found in low areas like ditches, floors, and basements. It's recommended that people install one or more gas detectors for their safety. If you smell gas, make sure that no flammables are present. Turn off the valve and close it. Then call 911 and leave the house. Make sure to have the appliance checked out by a professional before using it again.
Propane is an inexpensive energy source that's used for residential heating in homes, cooking, hot water, drying clothes, barbeques, hunting, camping, tailgating, and more. Commercial and agricultural uses include heating buildings, rooms and work spaces, restaurants, farming, and more industrial applications. It's is available in all sizes, cylinders, and tanks (100 pound, 120 gallon, and 500 gal) When purchasing it, be sure to use a reputable manufacturer such as Holtzman, Campora, Forklift, JS West, Coleman, or Southern States. Many companies also offer delivery services, repair and maintenance services, emergency services and budget plans.
Dave Gorski writes about propane at: http://www.propaneconcepts.com
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