-Propane and natural gas are commonly used for heating, cooking, and powering some appliances. However, propane is the most versatile, with the widest range of uses. The Prunedale propane team from Wildhorse Propane & Appliances decided that summarizing the main difference would be a handy way to answer questions.
- Chemical differences—Propane (C₃H₈) is a three-carbon hydrocarbon. Natural gas is primarily methane, a single-carbon hydrocarbon. The chemical composition of propane is C₃H₈. Natural gas’s chemical composition is CH₄.
- BTU (British Thermal Unit) energy value—Propane provides 2500 BTUs per cubic foot compared to 1000 BTUs per cubic foot supplied by natural gas. Propane delivers much more energy.
- Delivery and storage—Propane is portable and can be delivered to various locations and stored in tanks or cylinders. Natural gas requires a permanent pipeline infrastructure. Natural gas can only be stored as compressed gas for transportation. Propane is stored as a pressurized liquid and, as such, has more options for transportation and storage.
- Versatility—Propane’s portability is one of the features that make it the fuel of choice for many uses. Propane is a popular fuel for homes, businesses, industrial, and agricultural uses. Farm equipment and forklifts operate on propane. Autos and school bus fleets operate on propane. And, of course, there’s camping, backyard grilling, and arts and crafts that use propane, too.
- Environmental considerations—Propane produces lower polluting emissions compared to natural gas.
Favored in rural regions
Propane’s versatility and portability make it a favored fuel in rural regions, as well as in towns where property owners prefer cost-effective fuel. Unlike natural gas, propane does not require an extensive infrastructure to function.
The Prunedale propane team is experienced in installing underground gas lines and is highly skilled at installing propane gas lines and making accurate connections between the propane tank and appliances.
Installing propane and natural gas lines needs to be done by a professional licensed plumber. Gas lines must link from the main tank or natural gas source to the appliances at the appropriate depths, using the appropriate piping. Each type, propane and natural gas, has its specified pipes and fittings, and parts are not interchangeable.
The team’s qualifications and many years of expertise installing both propane and natural gas lines have made Wildhorse Propane & Appliance in demand with construction professionals, pool companies, and landscapers throughout Monterey County and communities around Paso Robles, Castroville, and Hollister. Due to its reputation as a leader in gas line design and construction, and fairness, the company has also been awarded government contracts.
Full-service propane company
Wildhorse Propane & Appliances is a family-owned company that has been supplying propane to Prunedale and propane services to Monterey County since 1980. The areas of service include all of Monterey County, North San Luis Obispo County communities near Paso Robles, portions of Santa Cruz County, and communities near San Juan Bautista and Hollister.
Services include:
- Services for residential, commercial, and agricultural operations.
- Propane tanks, installations, and maintenance.
- Propane appliances.
- Underground gas line installations.
Propane appliances.
Get top brand appliances such as Maytag, Frigidaire, Amana, Kitchenaid, Whirlpool, and more from Wildhorse Propane and Appliances. Whether you are building a brand new home or remodeling, appliances include:
- Refrigeration and freezers.
- Ovens and Stovetops.
- Dishwashers.
- Laundry appliances.
- Air Conditioning and ventilation.
- And more.

