At home we can have different appliances and items that use gas as a source of energy, with kitchens, stoves and boilers being the main ones. Despite technological development, many people prefer this type of fuel, since it is cheaper, more efficient, and even more environmentally friendly. As we well know, there are different types of gases, and each one has different characteristics that modify its efficiency. But how do we know which one is the best? And which type of gas is best for you?
It could be said that there are two categories of gases: natural and liquefied, in which we find butane gas and propane gas. Each one has specific uses and advantages that must be known in order to identify which is the best fuel source for each case. Although natural gas is very popular, liquids are also an excellent source of energy that generate large amounts of heat. Let's look at each one in detail:
Gas types
Let's talk about the types of gases and their characteristics, the advantages of each, and how to identify which one is best for you and your family. In this way, you will be able to decide which gas to buy regarding the efficiency and performance you want to obtain.
Natural gas
In the beginning, natural gas was the most complicated to extract and transport because it was highly flammable. However, with technological development, natural gas is now the most used of all, and it is the one that is distributed in the city networks through gas pipelines. When the transport of the gas becomes very complicated and expensive, they turn it into a liquid known as LNG, or liquid natural gas. In this way, the gas occupies less space and it is more profitable to mobilize it. Once it reaches the distribution plant, it is transformed back into its gaseous state, and is dispatched to homes.
It is known as natural because it is produced thanks to the degradation of organic matter underground, near oil fields. It is composed mostly of methane, and has a high caloric level.
Getting natural gas is very easy these days, especially since most homes already come with a direct connection to the city grid. But, we can also find distributions of natural gas in high pressure cylinders, known as CNG, or compressed natural gas, which we obtain by subscribing to a marketer. Being the most popular among all, there is a wide range on the market, which allows you to purchase it at a very affordable price.
Natural gas can be used for cooking, also to obtain hot water in the boiler or heat our homes with the help of heating, since its caloric capacity works well for all appliances. In addition, it is the cleanest and most friendly source of energy with the atmosphere, with the exception of renewable energies. When consumed, it produces methane gas emissions, but it is a very small amount.
Propane gas
Propane gas is a liquefied gas or LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), that is, it is obtained during the refining processes of crude oil and natural gas. This is mostly used in rural homes that do not have access to natural gas pipes and has a higher heat capacity compared to natural gas. We can also find a liquid version packaged in small cylinders, which are often used in camping kitchens.
To obtain propane gas, we can purchase cylinders ranging from 11 kg to 35 kg. There is also the option of buying it in bulk when large quantities are required, but a storage tank is required. And finally, we have the option of connecting to a central LPG network that is close to the area.
Among the advantages of propane gas we have that its performance and capacity is very high, especially if you need it to cover the entire house with, for example, heating; and, it supports very low temperatures, so the installation can be outside without problems. Although its cost is higher due to the lower supply, it is the best option for houses that do not have direct access to gas.
Butane gas
Butane gas is also a liquefied gas, or LPG, which is obtained from the processing of crude oil. This has increased in popularity in recent years due to its great performance, especially as a fuel for water heaters and heating. It is also the gas that we find in lighters and portable stoves.
Butane gas can be obtained in cylinders, generally marked orange. In terms of cost, it is higher than natural gas, but relatively cheaper than propane. This is the ideal gas to place it in a specific device, such as heating, stove, boiler, grills, etc., and it is very easy to transport. However, it is important to know that this gas is recommended for use indoors, since it evaporates easily at temperatures above 2ºC.
How to know which gas to choose?
It is normal for us to hesitate about the types of fuels to use in our home, but once we know the characteristics of each one and their common use, we already know what to choose.
If your home has a direct connection to the city's natural gas network, this will be the best option. The installation is already done; the cost is lower, and this represents greater savings; and, you will be sure that you can easily get it, since it is the one with the highest consumption. In case your installation is not done and you want to connect, you can consult with a distribution company and they will take care of it.
If you do not have the installation or simply prefer to use cylinders, then it will depend on what device you need it for. For the kitchen, natural gas works very well. On the other hand, for heating and the water boiler, the performance of butane gas is better. Although both gases can be used in all appliances, this arrangement ensures a better performance of each thing.
If your house is far from the natural gas network, then the best recommendation is to purchase propane gas. Its high caloric capacity will help you keep all your appliances running smoothly and it will perform for much longer. In addition, the installation can be outside if necessary. If it is a very remote area, it is best to get bottled gas. But, if there are other houses around, there is probably an LPG station nearby that you can connect to.
With these tips we are sure that you will be able to choose the best type of gas in each case, and that you will obtain the best performance in all your appliances.
