Can Propane Be Used In A Natural Gas Furnace?

It is well known that propane uses less energy than natural gas. If you currently have a natural gas furnace, though, you might be asking if you can use propane to power it.

A natural gas furnace can be converted to run on propane. It is more difficult than simply switching to a different energy source. A converter kit can be used to make this adjustment. The conversion kit will assist in making up for the pressure difference between the two categories of gases. Without a conversion kit, never use propane on a natural gas furnace since it could be fatal.

Making the switch from natural gas to propane has advantages. Before making the change, there are certain things to think about. We will go through how to convert a natural gas furnace to a propane furnace in this article.

Propane Conversion Of A Natural Gas Furnace

Is it possible to convert a natural gas furnace to run on propane? It can, but you’ll need a conversion kit to make it happen.

Before completing the conversion, you’ll also need a few other pieces of equipment and supplies from an HVAC retailer. You could also require a specialist or a contractor to operate the machinery on your behalf.

1. Conversion Kits Can Be Purchased From HVAC Stores
   Purchasing the necessary tools is the first step in making this transition. A propane conversion kit is required. You will also require hoses and connectors in addition to the converter.
2. Turn Off The Gas Supply And The Electric Power To The Furnace
   Make sure there is no electricity flowing to the furnace before touching it. Additionally, the gas supply pipe to the furnace needs to be turned off. Before completing this stage, get professional advice or enlist the aid of a contractor.
3. The Natural Gas Supply Line Should Be Opened
   You must then open the pipe leading to your natural gas furnace after shutting off the power and the gas supply. To complete this step, you will need a wrench of some sort, usually a pair of pliers.
4. Hoses And Connectors Should Be Connected To The Furnace
   Attach the hoses and connectors to your natural gas furnace once you have opened the gas line. Since they will be heavy, you must first make sure that the floor is secure for them.
5. Place The Unit In A Safe Area
   The unit needs to be moved to a secure area while it completes its conversion procedure. Dehumidifier and hose are required, and the area needs to be clearly designated. Given that propane is heavier than air or natural gas, it is not advised to carry out this operation in a closed environment.
6. Activate The Gas Supply Line And The Furnace’s Electricity
   Use your wrench to turn on the gas supply pipe to the furnace once you’ve moved the appliance. Additionally, turn on the electricity to allow the propane to enter the furnace.
7. Maintain The Gas Supply Line Open While Turning On The Furnace
   Keep the gas supply line open for an hour after everything has been connected and turned on before turning on your propane-powered natural gas furnace. After doing that, let the furnace to complete its cycle.
8. Detect Gas Leaks
   Check for any leaks near the hoses or connectors once everything has been connected, examined, and the propane is operating.

Are Propane And Natural Gas Furnaces The Same?

They are not the same products. While propane is a manufactured gaseous product, natural gas is used as fuel.

Without acquiring the necessary tools and putting in additional effort on your part, they cannot be switched out because they burn differently and at different pressures.

Natural gas is not a fuel, although propane is. The earth is where natural gas is found. In factories, propane is produced.

It costs more to operate propane furnaces than natural gas ones. But only if you utilize a non-electric heating system, such as one powered by propane or another fuel source, will this be the case. It doesn’t matter what kind of furnace you have if you use electric heat, which is powered by your utility.

Propane and natural gas don’t mix well in furnaces because natural gas needs to be burned at greater temperatures than propane. Therefore, they will cooperate more effectively the hotter the fire burns.

Furnaces powered by propane are less expensive to operate but cost more to install than those powered by natural gas. They also require less upkeep. Additionally, there is no pay distinction between the two jobs of installing propane and natural gas furnaces.

Both natural gas and propane furnaces circulate hot air to warm your home during the winter. However, compared to natural gas furnaces, propane furnaces can produce a larger stream of hot air and can be more reliable.

Natural gas doesn’t require the use of a fan for circulation because it is lighter than air and is not as heavy as propane.

What Takes Place When A Natural Gas Furnace Is Run On Propane?

Running a natural gas furnace on propane without a conversion kit puts your furnace at danger of breaking down.

Additionally, if your furnace isn’t modified or a blower isn’t installed, the wrong air-to-pressure ratio could result in an explosion.

It is advised that you switch to propane using the conversion kit supplied by the maker of your natural gas furnace to avoid these dangers.

Different electrical components included in natural gas furnaces cannot withstand the pressure of propane. If the pressured gas is introduced without any protection, the furnace will be destroyed.

The flow inside the tubing can be redirected by a conversion kit, shielding it from the harm that would result from using propane without one. Additionally, it guarantees that the amount of heat or fuel you receive for your money is equal.

Natural Gas Or Propane: Which Is Preferable?

Propane is superior because it burns more effectively and cleanly. In addition, propane furnaces operate faster than natural gas ones because the heat dissipates more quickly. Additionally, propane cuts down on the time needed to maintain your furnace.

The advantages of natural gas furnaces over propane ones must be considered. Although running a propane furnace is more expensive, it is an excellent option for people who live in isolated places where it is difficult to get natural gas delivered.

Because propane furnaces burn cleaner and deliver heat more quickly than natural gas furnaces, they are also preferable if you don’t want to change your equipment. Compared to natural gas furnaces, they also require less maintenance.

What Is The Price Of Converting Natural Gas To Propane?

Depending on the size of your furnace, the price to convert from natural gas to propane may change.

Large-scale conversions are typically expected to cost between $4,000 and $7,000 on average.

Some claim they have spent between $1,000 and $2,000, though. To get a better idea, speak with a nearby HVAC professional for a price quote.

Why Do Natural Gas Heaters Cost More Than Propane Heaters?

The higher cost of natural gas heaters is a result of the need for a constant supply of the fuel. Additionally, certain places have more difficult access to natural gas, which increases the cost of access for you.

Additionally, natural gas furnaces take more time and upkeep than propane ones. However, if natural gas is conveniently accessible to your home, this won’t be a big problem.

Before deciding which furnace is ideal for you, it is best to compare the two.

Each form of furnace should be more advantageous than it is expensive, both in terms of initial purchase and ongoing maintenance. The best furnace can be recommended by HVAC professionals based on your unique wants and spending capacity.

Conclusion

Get a conversion kit if you want to convert your natural gas furnace to propane. Failure to do so may endanger your life and result in an explosion.

For these safety reasons, it is advised to have a professional install the conversion kit if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself.