LPG, or liquefied petroleum gas, is the term used to describe two hydrocarbon gases - propane and butane. The LPG most used in Australia is propane, although there is frequently a portion of butane in the mix.

Odourless & Colourless

LPG is odourless and colourless, but a smell is added as a safety precaution.

Product of Nature

LPG is a product of nature found in the same below ground "wells" that produce natural gas.

Differences LPG - Natural

The two major differences from natural gas are the ability to store LPG as a liquid whenever it is kept under pressure and it has a higher energy (or heat) value. There is more energy available from any given quantity of LPG than from the same amount of natural gas.

Domestic Use

LPG is a fuel that is ideal for domestic heating, cooking and water heating. It can be supplied almost everywhere as it does not require your household to be connected to a mains pipeline.

Storage

LPG is delivered to your home or business in exchange cylinders or by a road tanker which refills a fixed cylinder or tank, usually located at the side of the building. As a liquid, LPG can be delivered to areas natural gas pipes do not reach. It then readily becomes vapour again whenever the pressure in the storage drops - for example when you turn on an appliance. Regulators reduce the gas pressure down for safe delivery through your gas pipes to your appliances. When all appliances are turned off the gas stays as a liquid in the cylinder awaiting your next need, immediately becoming vapour the moment an appliance is turned on.

Appearance

The outward appearance of LPG appliances is the same as natural gas appliances but the burners differ slightly due to the different chemical properties of the gases.