Natural Gas vs Propane
Gas Line Services
Expert Fuel System Selection, Installation & Conversion for Homes and Businesses
Choosing between natural gas and propane is an important step when planning your gas system. Whether you're building a new home, outfitting a commercial kitchen, or converting from electric, NOVA Gas helps you make the right choice for your property, performance goals, and budget.
As licensed Master Gasfitters serving Northern Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland, we install and service both natural gas and propane systems. We take a consultative approach—evaluating your fuel access, energy needs, and long-term costs—so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
What’s the Difference Between Natural Gas and Propane?
While both fuels power gas appliances efficiently, there are key differences in how they are delivered, stored, and used.
Natural Gas
š„Delivered via underground utility pipelines
š„Requires a connection to the municipal gas grid
š„Lower cost per BTU in most urban and suburban areas
š„Continuous fuel supply (no tanks to refill)
š„Ideal for homes and businesses in well-developed areas
š„Metered usage and billed monthly by utility provider
Propane Gas
š„Delivered by truck and stored in an on-site tank
š„Works well in rural or off-grid locations
š„Higher BTU output per cubic foot (more energy dense)
š„Offers flexibility in tank placement and fuel management
š„Requires routine refilling and tank monitoring
š„Can be purchased in bulk or leased from a provider
NOVA Gas Installs Both Natural Gas and Propane Systems
Whether you’re installing a new fuel system or converting from one to the other, we can help. NOVA Gas is fully licensed and equipped to design, install, and pressure-test systems for both fuel types.
Our Services Include:
š„Natural gas line installation
š„Propane gas line installation
š„Gas meter tie-ins and utility coordination
š„Propane tank sizing, siting, and trenching
š„Fuel line routing to indoor and outdoor appliances
š„Conversion of appliances between propane and natural gas
š„Pressure testing, leak detection, and safety checks
š„Compliance with local codes and utility standards
We’ll coordinate with your builder or designer to make sure your fireplace looks incredible—and performs flawlessly.
Converting Between Natural Gas and Propane
If your property already uses gas but you’re considering switching fuel types, NOVA Gas can assist with full-service conversion.
We’ll evaluate your current infrastructure, determine compatibility with your appliances, and identify the best path forward.
Conversion Services May Include:
š„Retrofitting gas appliances for new fuel
š„Replacing incompatible equipment
š„Adjusting regulator settings and flow rates
š„Reconfiguring gas line routing
š„Updating venting systems or clearance zones
š„Coordinating utility disconnection and reconnection
š„Conducting a full safety inspection and pressure test
Which Fuel Is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but our licensed gasfitters can help you weigh the pros and cons based on your specific location and needs.
Natural Gas May Be Right If:
š„You already have utility access on your property
š„You prefer consistent monthly billing through a utility
š„You're building in a neighborhood with utility infrastructure
š„You want the convenience of uninterrupted fuel supply
Propane May Be Right If:
š„You're in a rural area without natural gas lines
š„You want full control over your fuel storage and refills
š„You’re installing outdoor gas appliances far from the meter
š„You value higher energy output and off-grid capabilities
Propane Tank Installation & Trenching Services
If propane is the right fuel for your property, NOVA Gas provides complete tank installation and underground trenching services.
š„Propane tank sizing based on usage demands
š„Above-ground and underground tank placement
š„Secure trenching and line routing to home or building
š„Regulator installation and appliance connection
š„Leak testing and inspection compliance
š„Referrals to trusted propane suppliers for regular fuel delivery
We ensure that your propane system is not only efficient—but also compliant with setback requirements, ventilation rules, and other safety regulations.
Fuel System Planning for Residential & Commercial Projects
Choosing a gas fuel source is often part of a larger construction or renovation project. NOVA Gas works with homeowners, builders, developers, and mechanical contractors to integrate the right gas system into your plans.
We’ll help you select the right fuel type during:
New home construction
Restaurant or commercial kitchen design
Generator and HVAC installations
Pool, spa, or outdoor living upgrades
Rural home or cabin projects
Conversions from electric to gas systems
Fuel Type Compatibility & Appliance Selection
Not all gas appliances are universal—many are designed for a specific fuel type. NOVA Gas will confirm compatibility or help you find the right unit.
We’ll also guide you on the differences in:
š„Burner configuration
š„Gas pressure requirements
š„Regulator settings
š„Flame characteristics
š„Venting or clearance needs
If you're purchasing new appliances, we’ll make sure they’re properly configured for your chosen fuel. Already have appliances? We’ll verify if they can be converted—or if a replacement is more cost-effective.
Compliance, Safety & Efficiency
Whether using natural gas or propane, NOVA Gas ensures all installations are completed in accordance with:
š„International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
š„State and local building codes
š„Manufacturer specifications
š„Utility provider requirements
š„Safety regulations for pressure, venting, and clearances
Every job includes full leak testing, pressure verification, and final inspections. We don’t just meet code—we exceed expectations.
Ready to Compare Fuel Options? We’re Here to Help.
Still unsure which fuel is the better fit? Our team is happy to review your property, energy needs, and long-term goals to recommend the right gas line installation service for you.
We offer honest, professional guidance—without upselling or pressure.
š Call us at (703) 424-5467
š§ Email Kime@novagasworks.com
š Based in Falls Church, VA – Serving VA, DC & MD