- By Hanover Plumbing
- In Gas
- Tags LPG, Natural Gas
LPG vs Natural Gas – Which is Better?
When it comes to using LPG vs Natural Gas there is a difference we need to consider.
Which one is better you may ask while deciding to switch appliances to gas-fueled ones or are building a new house. Is it better to use natural gas or bottled LPG? Cost and convenience top the list of reasons you may find natural gas to be a better solution for you.
First, let’s find out a bit more about these fuels.
What is LPG?
LPG stands for liquid petroleum gas and in New Zealand, this generally refers to a mix of butane and propane that is compressed into a liquid and sold in bottles. It is manufactured during the refining of petroleum or extracted from petroleum or natural gas when it emerges from the ground. In other countries, you may find LPG is propane, or butane but not a combination of them.
Consumers order bottles from a gas company and these need to be replaced each time they are empty. There are many sizes of bottles available so you can select the ones that suit your household best.
What is Natural Gas?
Natural gas is mainly comprised of methane. Because methane is lighter than air, there is less risk of a fire or explosion if a leak occurs. It disperses more quickly than LPG, which is heavier than air. Natural gas occurs from processes similar to those that create oil.
Most regions on the North Island have reticulated natural gas which means it flows to the consumer through underground pipelines. When your house is connected to mains gas, the company typically charges a daily rate as a fixed fee and then your usage is charged separately to that.
So, which one is better? LPG vs Natural Gas
Which fuel is more efficient usually has more to do with the appliance itself than the fuel. If you are using a cleaner fuel with a poor appliance, you’re probably getting less efficiency than a lower quality fuel with a high-efficiency appliance.
Gas Leaks
Both fuels are odourless and colourless so they have a scent added to them – which usually smells like rotten eggs. This is so that people can easily detect leaks before they pose a large risk. If you smell gas in your house, turn off your appliances and shut off the gas supply. Then give us a call so we can diagnose and repair the leak.
We Can Help You Choose
There are a few factors to consider when choosing the type of gas for you. In some cases, a piped natural gas supply may not be available in your region (such as the South Island). In these cases, yes LPG is a better option than electricity. However, when there is a reticulated supply of natural gas in your region, that’s the best option. And you don’t need to manage your bottle replacements. Using one of the online calculators available (Powerswitch or What’s My Number), you can find out who the best supplier is for your needs.
Talk to us at Hanover Plumbing to find out more about natural gas appliances we can supply and install for you.
