Liquified Petroleum Gas vs. Propane

Many people are confused as to what constitutes liquified propane gas (LPG) and what constitutes propane. Are they the same? Can they fuel the same applications? Read on to learn more!

What is Propane?

Propane is used commonly in the United States to power a variety of applications. Propane is a non-toxic, colorless, and virtually odorless gas stored as a liquid (What is Propane Gas? | PERC). A scent is often added to propane gas to make it detectable. Propane comes from two main sources: crude oil refinement and natural gas processing (What is Propane Gas? | PERC). Propane is a flammable hydrocarbon gas (Is Propane the Same as LPG? Your Question Answered – Propane Specialty Services).

What is Liquified Petroleum Gas?

Like propane, LPG is a flammable hydrocarbon gas. LPG contains propane, but often contains butane and isobutane (Is Propane the Same as LPG? Your Question Answered – Propane Specialty Services), whereas propane gas is pure propane.

Uses for LPG and Propane

LPG and propane can be used for many of the same applications. From fueling grills, to outdoor and indoor appliances, running generators and heating homes and businesses, these two fuels have a variety of uses in common. Even though they have similar uses, the main difference between LPG and propane is that propane is pure propane and LPG often contains other gases like butane and isobutane.