Frequently Asked Questions about Central Propane Distribution Systems

A: Propane is a safe fuel to use in your home and business. Propane has a narrow range of flammability and cannot be ingested like gasoline or alcohol fuels because it is released as a vapor from a pressurized container. In addition, award-winning preventive maintenance programs like GAS Check (Gas Appliance System Check) ensure that homeowners understand how to properly maintain their propane appliances and enjoy a healthy, safe environment.
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Q. Do you offer financial incentives or rebates for using propane gas?

A. Yes. Homeowners will realize an immediate decrease in their overall energy bill. In addition, Ferrellgas typically provides the capital for the systems' installation. The cost of materials and installation of in-boundary mains may be refunded through reimbursable cost structures or subsidized capital expenditures. In some areas, builders and homeowners are eligible for rebates.
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Q. Is propane dangerous to the environment?

A. No. Propane is an approved, clean fuel listed in the 1990 Clean Air Act and the Energy Policy Act of 1992. Propane is one of the cleanest burning of all fossil fuels. Tests conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency show that propane-fueled vehicles produce 30 percent to 90 percent less carbon monoxide and about 50 percent fewer toxins and other smog-producing emissions than gasoline engines. Propane also is non-toxic, so it’s not harmful to soil or water. Click here to read more.
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Q. How can I be sure I'm handling propane gas properly in my home?

A. The propane industry has developed a comprehensive maintenance program called GAS Check, in which trained technicians inspect propane systems and appliances in homes to ensure they are running safely and efficiently. The program also educates homeowners about proper maintenance of propane appliances and how to handle propane safely.
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Q. Is propane really a convenient fuel?

A. Yes. In the United States there are approximately 70,000 miles of interstate pipelines and more than 25,000 retail dealers making propane readily available. Propane is transported and/or stored in portable tanks, so it can be used in areas beyond gas mains. To fuel homes, large tanks can even be buried underground because propane is a nontoxic, non-poisonous fuel that doesn’t contaminate aquifers or soil.
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Q. Who uses propane?

A. Propane is a trusted and reliable energy source that is used by millions of Americans each day. It fulfills energy needs by burning cleanly and efficiently, giving consumers more value for their energy dollar. People use propane in and around their homes for furnaces, water heaters, air conditioners, outdoor grills, fireplaces, and appliances.
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Q. How can I learn more about propane?

A. The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) was formed to promote the safe, efficient use of odorized propane gas as a preferred energy source. PERC is committed to educating the public about propane and propane safety. To contact PERC, call (202) 452-8975 or visit the websites below:

www.ferrellgas.com

www.usepropane.com

www.propanecouncil.org

Energy Savings Calculator

Home Safety Guideline

Email: julmer@hbhsystems.com

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Q. Why is propane an alternative energy?

A. Propane was officially certified as an Alternative Green Energy by the Clean Air Act and the Energy Policy Act. Propane is the byproduct of petroleum refining and burns at a much higher octane level than gasoline or diesel fuel. Combustion of propane results in minimal toxic, greenhouse gas, and particulate emissions. Propane is an extremely clean fuel, especially when compared to carbon-heavy coal-fired electricity. Click here to read more.
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Q. How does the cost of propane compare to the cost of Natural Gas?

A. Propane costs anywhere from 20% to 40% more than natural gas. However, in areas where no natural gas is available, the most appropriate comparison is between the costs of propane and electricity. Heating a home with electricity instead costs about twice as much as heating a home with propane.
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Q. What do Central Gas Distribution Systems look like?

A. Central Gas Distribution Systems can utilize either underground or above-ground tanks. The following are pictures of underground tank facilities and above-ground tank facilities:

Central Gas Distribution Systems can utilize either underground or above-ground tanks.

Propane was officially certified as an Alternative Green Energy by the Clean Air Act and the Energy Policy Act.
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Q. How much will a Central Gas Distribution System cost me?

A. In extremely well-qualified developments, central gas systems can be installed at no cost to developers. In these cases, the home-builders only cost is for the traditional yard-line connections.
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Q. Where in my development can the tank be located?

A. We prefer to install tanks in low asset valuation locations, like existing utility corridors or near wastewater treatment plants. Tanks can be installed in power line easement areas, underneath or near detention ponds, or around maintenance facilities. Tanks can even be installed on golf courses or in other green spaces.
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Q. What is the size of the tank?

A. A typical minimum tank size is approximately 10 feet by 45 feet.
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Q. Who coordinates customer billing, safety orientation, and emergency response?

A. Ferrellgas handles all customer billing, safety orientation, and emergency response. Ferrellgas operates a 24-hour customer service and emergency response line.
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Q. Is propane a regulated energy resource?

A. From an operational standpoint concerning compliance and safety, propane is heavily regulated. Price regulation varies from state to state. HBH Gas Systems handles all logistics of regulatory approval on the local, state, and national levels. HBH also handles the acquisition of permits relating to installation and operation. At a minimum, we comply with the DOT’s Office of Pipeline Safety, Title 49 CFR 191 & 192, and NFPA 54, 58, & 59.
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Q. How long does a system take to install?

A. A turnkey system can be installed as quickly as 15 days. The more advance notice HBH is given and the sooner we are brought into the process, the faster a system is installed.
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Q. When should HBH be contacted to begin involvement?

A. As soon as possible. By getting HBH involved early, we provide an entire energy solution even at the conceptual planning stages of the project. A nominal, refundable deposit initiates preliminary design and allows HBH and Ferrellgas to provide a utility commitment letter.
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Q. Where can these systems be installed?

A. Central Gas Distribution Systems can be installed virtually anywhere.
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Q. How many units can a system serve?

A. The number of units that these systems can serve is unlimited.
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Q. Are these systems exclusively for residential applications?

A. Absolutely not. These systems can serve schools, hospitals, strip centers, public swimming pools, manufacturing plants, standalone independent power systems, or any facility with an interruptable natural gas supply.
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Q. Do HBH and Ferrellgas guarantee a supply of propane for the homeowners who use these systems?

A. Yes.
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