Propane is a versatile, clean-burning fuel that is used in homes and businesses across the country and around the world as a source of energy. At Annapolis Propane & Fuels, we are pleased to be your local source for propane because we believe in the real value and efficiency of this fuel. Like so many things that we use in everyday life, how often do you consider where propane originated? And just why has it become one of the most popular energy sources in the world today? Propane has been around since the early 1900s, and it has such a rich and interesting back story!
The Discovery Of Propane And Its Success
The early findings of propane were first discovered in the late 1800s by French chemist Marcellin Bertholet. But its potential as a reliable energy source wasn’t discovered until the early 1900s by Washington, D.C. chemist Dr. Walter O. Snelling. This talented scientist determined that several of the evaporating gases from gasoline could be converted to liquid and stored at moderate pressure. The most capable of these gases was propane. Propane was discovered accidentally, as a byproduct, not on purpose. How incredible!
Propane is derived from two different sources: separated from crude oil during the refining process, and extracted from natural gas or petroleum wells at a processing plant. It is also naturally odorless so to ensure the safety of users, a reliable method of alerting to potentially hazardous leaks was needed. Ethyl mercaptan (which produces the infamous “rotten egg” smell) was introduced in the 1930s to warn consumers and rail workers in the case of a gas leak.
Propane would go on to power equipment, residential appliances, and even railroad tank transit. By 1947, more than 60 percent of American households were equipped with either propane or natural gas. The Chicago Transit Authority was the first to use propane as a transportation fuel when it ordered the first-ever propane-powered buses. In 2004, it was estimated that the number of gallons used in the U.S. annually was nearly 15 billion. In 2019 and beyond, the use of this versatile fuel is only going to grow, allowing homes and businesses to become more efficient.
Amazingly, so many of the things we may take for granted are only possible because of this serendipitous discovery! That is why Annapolis Propane & Fuels focuses on providing you with propane of the highest quality to meet your residential and commercial needs. Propane is used to keep your home warm and toasty in the winter through central heating and snuggle-worthy gas fireplaces. It also fuels your summer fun with grills, pool heaters, outdoor firepits, and outdoor kitchens. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa by the fire on a snowy night, or enjoying a lemonade while grilling on a hot summer night, we want to be there for all of your propane and fuel needs, helping you to grow and make memories over the years. We are based right in Annapolis and are proud to help customers across the Western Shore and beyond. Contact Annapolis Propane & Fuels today and discover how propane can become part of your home or business.
