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Posted: June 2, 2025
When it comes to choosing a fuel source for heating, cooking, or powering appliances, propane and natural gas are two of the most common options. While both are efficient and widely used, people often wonder: what burns hotter—propane or natural gas? The answer not only reveals interesting facts about each fuel, but it can also impact decisions on which to use in specific applications.
Propane and natural gas are both fossil fuels, but they differ in composition and physical properties. Natural gas is primarily composed of methane (CH₄), while propane (C₃H₈) is a byproduct of both natural gas processing and petroleum refining. Propane is stored as a liquid in pressurized tanks, while natural gas is typically delivered via pipelines in gaseous form.
The heat output of a fuel is commonly measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). One BTU is the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. In terms of BTUs, propane is the hotter fuel:
This means that, volume for volume, propane produces more than twice the heat of natural gas. From a combustion standpoint, this makes propane the hotter-burning fuel.
The higher heat output of propane makes it an excellent choice for applications that require intense, concentrated heat. For example, propane is often used in portable heaters, outdoor grills, and high-powered torches. It’s also a popular fuel in rural areas where natural gas lines may not be available.
Because propane burns hotter, appliances designed for propane can be more efficient in terms of energy output per unit of fuel.
Both fuels are relatively safe when handled properly. And both are cleaner-burning than other fossil fuels like coal or oil.
So, which fuel burns hotter? Propane clearly takes the lead with its higher BTU output. In addition to burning hotter, propane offers you versatility. You can use it at home for a variety of applications or take it camping, tailgating, etc. because of how easy it is to transport in portable tanks.
Propane has a lot going for it in addition to how hot it burns and how versatile it is. Propane is also eco-friendly: Homes powered by propane produce 30% less carbon dioxide (CO2) than all-electric homes. Propane is safe thanks to strict regulations. And propane is highly accessible. America has an abundant supply of propane. In fact, most of the propane we deliver comes from right here in Pennsylvania!
You can rely on Ace-Robbins for safe, reliable, and affordable propane delivery. We proudly serve our Eastern Pennsylvania customers from Bradford to Wyoming county, from Lackawanna to Luzerne, and from Susquehanna to Sullivan. We also deliver, install, and monitor propane tanks.
Join our family of satisfied customers today. Contact Ace-Robbins for more information on propane delivery or propane tank installation and monitoring.