Natural gas vs LPG - Which option is right for your home?

Which gas is going to be the most cost effective and efficient for your home and your family’s energy use? Both natural gas and LPG can be used as an alternative to electricity for systems such as water heating, space heating, and cooking. Your location can narrow your choices as if you are outside the mains natural gas distribution area LPG could be your only option. If, however, you are within this area deciding between natural gas and LPG can take some consideration.

Natural gas

The mains supplied natural gas is available throughout much of Sydney however you will need to check your specific address to make sure it is a viable option for your home. You can check the natural gas availability here - gonaturalgas.com.au

Advantages of natural gas

• Minimal risk of running out due to constant mains supply.
• Can often be cheaper than LPG
• Ideal for homes and businesses with a medium to high gas needs. Such as those where gas is used to fuel multiple appliances such as the hot water system, room heaters, cooktop, and oven.
• Natural gas is a low emission alternative to coal generated electricity. Less carbon dioxide generation than alternative fuels.
• Lighter than air so can be easier to disperse by opening windows if a leak occurs.

Disadvantages of natural gas

• More extensive installation requirements as pipes and connection to the mains needed.
• Can’t move appliances once the gas pipes and connections are in place.
• Highly combustible and toxic - extreme care needs to be taken when storing and using natural gas.
• It’s a non-renewable energy source.

LPG (liquified petroleum gas)

LPG is available to most areas of Australia which makes it an option for most homes and businesses within and outside the mains gas distribution area.

Advantages of LPG

• Portable - need to move the BBQ? Easily relocate appliances if using LPG in smaller bottles.
• Burns at a higher temperature than natural gas so provides more efficient cooking and heating fuel.
• Easily accessed - proximity to a mains supply not needed making LPG a good option for homes outside of major towns or cities.
• Ideal for homes and businesses with low to medium level of gas requirements. Eg those only use gas to fuel the cooktop or oven.
• Refills or replacements for smaller bottles are often easily sourced from a nearby fuel station or hardware shop.
• A clean burning fossil fuel option.

Disadvantages of LPG

• Some planning or monitoring needs to be undertaken to avoid running out or paying for urgent delivery.
• Is heavier than air so tends to pool at floor level if there is a leak - doors need to be opened to allow the gas to escape not just windows.
• LPG tanks require storage space outside your home.

Costs

Comparing the cost of natural gas and LPG are not as straightforward as examining the market price.

Costs comparisons also need to take into account things like:

• installation expenses
• ongoing supply charges
• bottle rental
• expenses involved in getting gas mains pipes to your property

Appliance suitability

Most gas appliances are designed for either natural gas or LPG. If you have existing appliances check which gas they are suited to. Also ensure any gas appliances you purchase are manufactured for your chosen gas type.

Not sure which gas option is right for you? Speak to the gas specialists at Pure Plumbing Professionals today.