Emerging Applications

Did you know that propane generators offer some of the most state-of-the-art features of any generator on the market? Did you know any gasoline engine can be easily and economically retrofit to operate with propane? Here are just a few examples of innovative propane products that can make a difference in your home.

Generators. Today’s state-of-the-art standby generators can ensure your quality of life by keeping the electricity flowing in the event of a power failure that results from a standard service disruption or a natural disaster, such as a storm. A propane generator can even serve as a primary energy source if your home was built off the grid. And ultra-efficient cogeneration units are now available to produce heat in addition to electricity.

Lawn trimmers and blowers. An increasing number of propane trimmers and blowers are coming on the market, including lightweight units that use standard 16.4 ounce “camping style” propane canisters as the fuel source. One canister produces enough energy for about two hours of efficient operation.

Lawn mowers. Unlike gasoline mowers, propane mowers virtually eliminate fuel spills and require no messy mixing of gasoline and oil. They also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by almost 50 percent and carbon monoxide emissions by more than 80 percent compared with gasoline mowers.

Vehicles. In the last decade, propane has fueled a rising percentage of commercial, industrial, and service vehicles. Currently, there are about 270,000 propane vehicles on the road in the U.S. (more than 13 million vehicles worldwide), including trucks, buses, taxis, and delivery vehicles. Savvy drivers know that since since nearly 90 percent of U.S. propane supplies are produced in the United States, propane is a clean, reliable, domestic energy source that can help Americans increase their energy independence.

Each day, millions of people use propane to enhance their quality of life. If you're ready to reap the benefits of propane's exceptional energy, consider the following tips:

1. Remove combustible materials. Keep cleaning fluids, oil-soaked rags, gasoline, or other flammable liquids away from propane equipment.
2. Properly handle and mount tanks. Just as caution should be taken when storing or filling gasoline supplies, you should also take steps to properly handle propane tanks. For example, when changing out a used propane tank on lawn trimmers or blowers, make sure the refilled tank is correctly seated, latched, and connected to the fuel system. For more specific details, ask your propane retailer.