Staying Warm This Winter: Propane and Isobutane for Heating

Propane and isobutane are categorized under the liquefied petroleum (LPG) group of gases. While propane and isobutane share a lot of similarities, they each possess a unique set of properties that distinguish them from the other. Both are popularly used for both indoor and outdoor heating purposes, but how do you decide which of them is best for your purposes?

Essentially, isobutane is an isomer of butane and shares the same chemical formula as butane, but has a markedly different structure. This means it exhibits a number of different characteristics when compared to butane. Isobutane possesses a sea-level boiling point of 11°F or -12°C.

Heating efficiency

The exact heating efficiency of these liquefied petroleum gases mainly depends on the exact weather and climatic conditions in which they are used. Since it possesses a much lower boiling point than isobutane, propane is the best solution for use in cold winter temperatures. particularly for outdoor utilization during the height of the winter season, while the use of isobutane in such cold conditions can prove to be extremely difficult.

This is especially the case at temperatures beneath 20°F or -6.5°C. Below this temperature, isobutane gas will fail to vaporize (transit into a gaseous form), therefore making it impossible to ignite. Also, propane can deliver almost 90% of isobutane’s energy, meaning that propane tends to burn much longer than isobutane. Therefore, propane has a better heating efficiency in comparison with isobutane.

Cost

Propane is a more affordable option when compared with the cost of isobutane. This is simply because it is a cheaper solution than not only isobutane but most other pressurized gases.

Types of propane and isobutane heaters on the market

There are 3 different sorts of indoor LPG heaters currently available. First, there are flued LPG gas heaters, which are basically built-in heaters that are installed in residential structures. Flued heaters are much safer to use than unflued or LPG heaters, and are preferred over the latter for use in smaller rooms. Flued LPG heaters also provide better air quality making them more suitable for those who suffer from allergies or asthma.

Propane and isobutane gas heater for indoor use

All LPG heaters designed for indoor utilization are completely safe to use indoors. This is particularly so when they are maintained regularly and used properly. To always ensure that your indoor LPG gas heater remains safe, it is wise to have it serviced by a competent gas fitter no less than once after every two years. Additionally, sufficient ventilation is necessary, particularly if you are using an unflued LPG gas heater.

Eureka Oxygen is a leading provider of a variety of industrial gasses including propane and isobutane. We are also a vendor of welding equipment, and welding supplies, along with other diverse industrial equipment. Stop in and speak with us today!