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The 30-Second Verdict
For most Florida homes, this isn't really a choice — it's an availability question. Natural gas runs to about 30% of FL homes (mostly urban Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Miami). Everywhere else (rural, coastal, suburban island communities) propane is the only option. When you DO have a choice, natural gas is cheaper per BTU ($0.012–$0.018 vs propane's $0.025–$0.045) and lower-maintenance (no tank). Propane wins on hurricane reliability (your tank doesn't depend on the utility grid) and zero upfront connection cost.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
Propane (LP)
Pros
- No tank required — utility runs underground
- Cheaper per BTU: $0.012–$0.018 vs propane $0.025–$0.045
- No 'run out' risk — meter runs continuous
- No tank refill scheduling, no tank rental fees
- Cleanest-burning fossil fuel — no soot or smell
Cons
- Available in only ~30% of FL homes (urban + suburban metros)
- Gas-line damage during hurricanes — restoration takes days/weeks
- Connection fee for new lines: $1,500–$5,000 if extending from main
- Less energy-dense — generators need 50% more gas vs propane
- Tied to FPL/Duke gas-rate increases
Natural Gas
Pros
- Works ANYWHERE in Florida — no utility connection needed
- Tank holds 7–14 days of fuel on its own (post-storm independence)
- Higher energy density — generators run longer per gallon
- Stable pricing (locked at delivery, not market exposure)
- Backup tank possible for hurricane prep
Cons
- More expensive per BTU: $0.025–$0.045 vs natural gas $0.012–$0.018
- Tank rental or purchase: $400–$1,500/yr rental, $1,500–$3,500 buy
- Refill scheduling — you must monitor or risk run-out
- Delivery delays during peak winter or post-hurricane
- Below-ground tanks ($2,500–$5,000 install) for aesthetics
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Propane (LP) | Natural Gas | |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Availability | ~30% of homes (urban metros) | 100% of homes (you can install anywhere) |
| Cost per BTU (2026) | $0.012–$0.018 | $0.025–$0.045 |
| Connection / Setup Cost | $0–$5,000 (extension from main) | $2,000–$5,500 (tank + line + pad) |
| Tank Required | No | Yes (250 gal or 500 gal typical) |
| Hurricane Reliability | Outages 2–14 days post-storm | Independent — works during outages |
| Generator Fuel Density | Lower (50% more gas needed) | Higher (smaller tank = more runtime) |
| Refill Logistics | None (utility meter) | Auto-fill service ($75–$150 delivery) |
| Best for | Urban metros with existing line | Suburbs, rural, coastal, hurricane prep |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have natural gas at my Florida address?
Check at peoplesgas.com (TECO) or floridacitygas.com — both have address lookup tools. If your home was built post-2005 in a major FL metro, there's a 50% chance you have gas already. Look for a yellow shutoff at the meter on the side of the house. No yellow shutoff = no natural gas.
What size propane tank do I need?
For just a generator: 500-gallon tank, refilled annually. For generator + hot water + range: 1,000-gallon tank. For full-home propane (heat, hot water, dryer, generator): 1,000 gallons + auto-fill contract. Florida code allows above-ground or buried tanks; buried adds $2,500–$5,000 to the install.
For a whole-house generator, which is better?
Natural gas if you have it — no tank to worry about, runs as long as the gas line is intact. Propane is better in hurricane country because the gas grid often fails for days post-storm; your propane tank doesn't care. Compromise: a propane-fueled generator with a 500-gallon tank gives you 7–10 days of independent power.
Will natural gas survive a hurricane?
Mixed. The underground distribution mains are typically fine, but service lines from the main to your house can be damaged by uprooted trees or shifting earth. Post-Ian, parts of SW Florida had natural gas outages for 2–14 days while gas crews inspected lines. Propane tanks survive better because they're self-contained.
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