You’ve perhaps heard about propane and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), but is propane the same as LPG? This question has bothered many people who would love to use either of the two energy sources. Essentially, propane and LPG mean the same thing. The latter is sometimes described as propane or butane, depending on location.

Are propane and LPG the same? Find out more here: Share on X

The two forms of LPG, Propane (C3H8) and Butane (C4H10), are hydrocarbons with similar chemical formulae and unique elements. The LPG is a flammable gas liquefied through pressurization, but it may add other gases, unlike pure propane. In other words, Propane and LPG are the same, but not all LPG is propane.

Let’s find out the constituents of propane and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

Liquefied Petroleum Gas

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) consists of propane, butane, and isobutane, which are flammable hydrocarbon gases used as fuel for cooking, heating, and auto vehicles. LPG comes from oil and gas wells since it’s a fossil fuel. It gets manufactured by processing natural gas and crude oil. LPG can be stored in steel BBQ bottles, cylinders, and tanks. 

Propane Terminology

In countries such as Australia, LPG comprises propane, and calling LPG propane makes sense – they mean the same thing. In the United States, many people are not familiarized with the name LPG. Most Americans will call it propane. While both terms mean the same thing, propane gas tends to work better than LPG in cold weather. 

Are They the Same?

Generally, propane and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) mean the same thing. However, the latter can contain butane and isobutane, in addition to propane. All are flammable hydrocarbon gases with the same chemical formulae categorized as LPG. The slight difference is that LPG contains propane, but propane is one of the LP gases.  

Innovative Propane Solutions

Is propane the same as LPG? Yes, both have similar chemical formulae, making them ideal for similar applications. If you live in cold places, consider investing in propane and not LPG, which comprises many hydrocarbon gases. Propane tends to work better than liquefied petroleum gas in cold weather. Propane Specialty Services is ready to help you choose.

Contact us today for innovative propane solutions for liquefied petroleum systems.