Spring is here, and if you are like one of the over two million farm owners in the United States, it is your busiest season. As the temperatures rise, it is time for fields to be plowed, crops to be planted, and farm animals to be looked after. It has become clear that farmers across the country have recognized the uses of propane beyond home heating and appliances. Propane has a long agricultural history, dating back to over 100 years. 50% of rural Americans used propane in their homes, while 40% also used it in their farming operations. Today, over one million farms use this clean-burning, reliable, and efficient form of energy to power their day-to-day agricultural activities. The professionals at Gastec highlight how using propane to run a farm has its advantages and some of the most common uses below.
Advantages of Propane on Your Farm
Propane, also known as liquefied petroleum gas, or “LP”, is one of the most widely used alternative fuels. It is a byproduct of natural gas processing and petroleum refining that is safe, clean, powerful, and reliable, and it provides the power to heat, plant, produce, water, dry, store, harvest, and transport farm products to and from locations all over the country. Propane can be used for several critical jobs on the farm, including:
- Weed control
- Crop drying
- Greenhouse operations
- Farm equipment fueling
- Livestock heating
- Water heating
- Pest control
- Irrigation pumping
- Generator power
While using propane in agricultural operations might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of farming, there are several advantages of propane that can be utilized for increased efficiency on your farm, including:
Cost-Effective
Operating a farm is a lot of work and a considerable investment. Farmers across the country are switching to propane as their preferred alternative energy source for agricultural purposes because it is one of the most cost-effective and efficient energy sources available.
Highly Versatile
As mentioned earlier, propane can be used for several applications on your farm. Propane is used to fuel an abundance of farm equipment, from irrigation systems to grain dryers.
Environmentally Friendly
Propane burns cleanly and efficiently, having over 10% fewer greenhouse emissions than diesel and almost 25% less than gasoline. Unlike burning fossil fuels, like coal and natural gas, propane emits virtually no soot, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides, making it one of the most environmentally friendly energy sources.
Why Choose Gastec for Your Propane Needs?
If you are not using propane to run a farm, you should be! The impact it has on the farming industry is massive and continues to grow daily. Because of its energy-efficient, cost-saving, and eco-friendly advantages, propane is one of the most convenient and versatile energy sources for farming. As a full-service propane provider, Gastec is here for all your needs. We deliver the best propane service to residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural consumers across the Greater Philadelphia area. If you are ready to partner with us, contact us today at 888-449-3585.