Natural Gas vs Propane Boilers
Most Greater Vancouver homes run on natural gas, but propane matters off the grid. How the two fuels compare for boilers, and what conversion involves.
In Greater Vancouver, most homes are on the natural-gas grid, but properties in rural or off-grid areas of BC often run on propane. Boilers can be configured for either, but they are not interchangeable without the correct parts and setup. Here is how the two compare.
Natural gas
Piped to the home by the utility, natural gas is convenient and, in most serviced areas, the default. There is no tank to refill and supply is continuous. The vast majority of urban Greater Vancouver boiler installations are natural gas.
Propane
Stored in an on-site tank and delivered by truck, propane serves homes beyond the gas mains. It burns hotter per unit volume and requires different orifices and gas-valve settings. For rural BC properties, it is often the practical fuel for a boiler.
Converting between fuels
- Many boilers are convertible with a manufacturer conversion kit (orifices, settings).
- Conversion must be done by a licensed gas fitter and properly commissioned.
- Never run a boiler on a fuel it is not set up for — combustion will be wrong and unsafe.
Key takeaways
- Natural gas is the default for most serviced Greater Vancouver homes.
- Propane serves off-grid properties and needs different orifices and settings.
- Fuel conversion is a licensed, kit-based job — never run a boiler on the wrong fuel.
Frequently asked questions
Can I convert my boiler from natural gas to propane?
Often yes, if the manufacturer offers a conversion kit for your model. It must be carried out by a licensed gas fitter who changes the orifices and settings and recommissions the boiler. Running on the wrong fuel without conversion is dangerous.
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