Piped Gas vs LPG Cylinder: Pros, Cons, and What You Should Choose

PNG (Piped Natural Gas) and LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) are both used for various purposes, like heating, cooking, industrial usage, etc. These fuels/gases are unique, both in the way they are composed and used. Whether they are used in residential spaces or commercial and industrial spaces, each of these gases has pros and cons, which is every important to know if you’re considering using them. In this blog, let us discuss in detail about the LPG cylinders and piped gas systems, including PNG vs LPG cost comparison, safety concerns, installation requirements, and more, so that you can easily choose between PNG vs LPG.

What is Piped Gas

Piped gas (also called Piped Natural Gas) is just a network of pipelines through which natural gas is easily supplied and doesn’t need to be refilled when a cylinder is empty. Since they are supplied through these piped systems, the gas can be used on demand without any worry of running out. Methane is the main gas that is supplied through PNG networks or piped gas systems.

What is LPG Cylinder

Unlike piped gas systems, an LPG cylinder is just a container that holds Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), like butane and propane. This gas will be in liquid (when under pressure), and as it is released, it turns into a gaseous state. The main differences between a gas pipeline vs gas cylinder is that there is no network of pipeline through which gas is supplied, instead, it is stored and distributed in portable cylinders.

Importance of Choosing the Right Gas Supply

The right gas supply method can help you use the gas as per your needs, whether it is in industrial settings or residential spaces. It can help you avoid disruptions in your operations and continue without any safety concerns. The right supply of gas means uninterrupted work and flexibility as per your needs, which is why it is so important to choose the right gas supply method.

If you still need help with PNG vs LPG which is better for you? Keep reading to know their pros and cons.

Pros of Piped Gas

Continuous Supply

PNG offers a continuous flow of gas to the appliance you are using. Unlike gas cylinders, which require you to frequently change them when it gas is over, these piped systems allow for a continuous supply of gas so helping homes and businesses that need a consistent gas supply for various operations without any delay.

Reduced Risk

The gas in the network of pipelines is lighter than air, so even if there is a leak, it can quickly disperse in the air, which reduces the risk of any accidents. It also reduces any manual handling of heavy cylinders from one place to another. Hence, there is a relatively low risk of leaks with the piped gas systems.

Safety and Convenience

Piped Natural Gas systems have built-in safety features like pressure regulators and automatic shut-off valves, which make them a safer option for regular use. Unlike the gas cylinders, there’s no need to lift, connect, or disconnect the containers, which is also very convenient for daily needs.

Cost Effective: Between PNG vs LPG cost

PNG is more affordable to use in the long term. This is because there are no LPG delivery costs or billing, and you only need to pay for the amount of gas that is used. It helps in reducing the recurring costs for homes and industries.

Cons of Piped Gas

Infrastructure Requirements

Having a piped gas system requires you to make some infrastructure changes for the pipelines. Even if the infrastructure is suitable, your area may not permit you to install them. This can cause a delay in the gas pipeline installation if your home or industrial facility is located in remote areas far from the city.

High Installation Costs

For piped gas systems, the initial installation cost can be very high because they need to be carefully fitted. Whether it is the pipes, valves, meters, or other parts, the installation cost can be higher. So if your budget is not able to account for the installation cost, piped gas systems may not be the right choice.

Regular Maintenance Needed

Piped gas systems need to be regularly inspected. The maintenance also needs to be done by a professional technician who is certified to carry out the inspection and repairs. If there are any leaks, pressure issues, or valve issues, they need to be quickly fixed to prevent accidents.

Limited Availability

Piped natural gas is still not available in many cities due to infrastructure concerns and limited availability of space. Unlike LPG cylinders that can be delivered almost anywhere, access to piped natural gas systems depends on whether your location is within the gas provider's area of service.

Pros of LPG Cylinders

Easy to Access

If you ever need quick access to gas for cooking or other purposes, you can get LPG cylinders across many locations, as it is the common type of gas for domestic use. This makes it easier for you to access LPG even in areas that do not have a proper infrastructure for gas pipelines.

No Installation

You don’t need to have a unique infrastructure for LPC cylinders because there are no permanent changes that you make in your space for the gas supply. Instead, you can just bring the cylinder to your kitchen or industrial facilities and use it as per your needs.

Portable and Flexible

If you are comparing the benefits of piped gas vs cylinder, LPG cylinders have a major benefit. This is because of their portability and flexibility in transportation. If you want a gas supply in a rented space, you can choose LPG cylinders since they don’t need any pipeline infrastructure.

Low Initial Costs

Gas cylinders don’t need any major investment to set them up. Since there are no pipelines or special meters, the installation costs will be much lower than natural piped gas. The recurring cost will be only for the purchase of a new cylinder when the existing one is empty.

Cons of LPG Cylinders

Refills and Replacements

LPG cylinders run out faster and need regular refills through replacements. This can be inconvenient, especially during emergencies or holidays. You also need to keep monitoring the gas levels and plan ahead to avoid running out of gas during cooking or other activities.

Storage Space

Gas cylinders need a small amount of physical space in the kitchen or utility area and must be stored in a well-ventilated area to avoid any risks. This can be a disadvantage if they are used in small urban homes with limited storage space.

Safety Concerns

When it comes to gas cylinder vs gas pipeline safety, LPG cylinders have more risks. Unnoticed leaks, regulator issues, or careless mishandling can increase the chances of accidents. For safety reasons, they also need a proper storage space to reduce fire risks.

Long-Term Costs

Higher While LPG cylinders may have a lower initial cost, over time, the recurring expenses from delivery charges, refill costs, and potential damage make them more expensive. This is why PNG is often considered to be a more affordable option for long-term u

How To Choose Between Piped Gas and LPG Cylinder

Budget and Costs

If your budget is flexible and you are ready to invest more for the installation, choose PNGs. For a low-cost setup, go for gas cylinders. This will help you stay within your budget and reduce unnecessary costs.

Usage Requirements

You can switch to PNG from LPG cylinder if you need a consistent supply of gas. If you only require it for a short period of time, choose LPG cylinders. Even if the usage increases, you can later opt for piped gas.

Safety and Convenience

If you are concerned about the safety of using gas in your premises, PNG is the safest option. LPG gas cylinders are also safe, but only if they are handled with caution. You can also choose between LPG and PNG as per your convenience.

Availability

If the location of your home or business is in remote areas, PNG might not be available to you since gas pipelines need proper infrastructure and permits to install. In such cases, LPG cylinders are a more suitable option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between piped natural gas and LPG cylinders depends on your specific needs, budget, location, and infrastructure requirements. While PNG offers a continuous, cost-effective, and safer gas supply, LPG cylinders give you the flexibility and ease of access to gas, making them suitable for areas that don’t have an infrastructure for gas pipelines.