Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions about propane most commonly asked by construction professionals.
Q. What is propane made from?
A. Propane is a naturally occurring byproduct of oil and natural gas processing. Although propane is derived from petroleum, its unique molecular properties make it much safer and cleaner than related sources. Propane is also almost entirely domestically produced. Approximately 95 percent of all propane used in the United States is produced in North America.
Q. How common is the use of propane as a residential energy source?
A. Nearly 50 million U.S. households use propane in their home; 12 million homes rely on propane for their home heating needs.
Q. What are the risks and dangers associated with propane tanks, especially tank burial?
A. Propane is safe, clean, reliable energy. Propane is insoluble in water. Because it's released as a gas, it doesn't spill, pool, or leave a residue. That means propane is not harmful to soil or water in the unlikely event of a tank leak. Propane also includes an odorant that allows you to easily identify leaks.
Q. How do I know what type or size of tank I need for my project?
A. There are two main types of propane tanks. DOT cylinders, familiar to homeowners with propane grills, are generally used above ground and typically don't contain more than 25 gallons of propane. Horizontal ASME tanks can hold 250–1,000 gallons and are safe to bury underground, out of sight. Your propane retailer can help your project "get sized" for the right tank.
Q. Is propane compatible with environmentally friendly forms of construction?
A. Construction professionals who use propane can earn more than 100 points toward the National Green Building Standard™. The green building standards incorporate environmental considerations into every phase of the home building process, from lot design and preparation to construction to homeowner education.
The use of propane earns builders and remodelers high points in the categories of indoor environmental quality and resource, energy, and water efficiency. By building with propane, in fact, your project can be halfway to bronze. You can learn more about the green building standards from the National Association of Home Builders green Web site nahbgreen.org.
