Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

progree

(10,864 posts)
Sun Jan 17, 2021, 12:09 AM Jan 2021

Restaurants, bars scramble for propane amid pandemic winter (for outdoor dining)

AP, January 16, 2021

With coronavirus restrictions forcing bars and restaurants to seat customers outside in the dead of winter, many are scrambling to nab erratic supplies of propane that fuel space heaters they’re relying on more than ever to keep people comfortable in the cold.

It's one of many new headaches — but a crucial one — that go with setting up tables and tents on sidewalks, streets and patios to comply with public health restrictions.

“You’re in the middle of service and having staff run up and say, ‘We’re out of propane!’" said Melinda Maddox, manager of a whiskey tasting room in Colorado.

Propane long has been a lifeline for people who live in places too remote to get natural gas piped to their homes for heat, hot water and cooking. This winter, 5-gallon propane tanks have proven a new necessity for urban businesses, too, especially in places like the Rocky Mountains, where the sun often takes the edge off the chill and people still enjoy gathering on patios when the heaters are roaring.

The standard-size tanks, which contain pressurized liquid propane that turns to gas as it's released, are usually readily available from gas stations, grocery stores or home improvement stores. But that's not always the case lately as high demand leads to sometimes erratic supplies.


More at: https://kstp.com/coronavirus/restaurants-bars-scramble-for-propane-amid-pandemic-winter/5979997/?cat=12685

I have no idea what all this adds up to as far as amount burned and GHG released. But it's obviously not very "green".

EDIT: I missed the stuff below the ad. e.g. "So far, the surge in demand for small-tank propane hasn't affected overall U.S. propane supply, demand and prices, which are running similar to recent winters, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration."

But it does take time out of the day to hunt down more propane. Methinks too that this has been a mild winter so far.
3 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
Restaurants, bars scramble for propane amid pandemic winter (for outdoor dining) (Original Post) progree Jan 2021 OP
Also hard to find outdoor heaters that use propane. Phoenix61 Jan 2021 #1
The result of price increases and shortages is cold elderly and children. Deb Jan 2021 #2
Yes, and their customers - people who would actually sit in the semi-outdoors in the winter progree Jan 2021 #3

Deb

(3,742 posts)
2. The result of price increases and shortages is cold elderly and children.
Sun Jan 17, 2021, 04:12 AM
Jan 2021

Ever try to teach a cold kid?

JFC, I'm really starting to hate the wasteful restaurant industry.

progree

(10,864 posts)
3. Yes, and their customers - people who would actually sit in the semi-outdoors in the winter
Sun Jan 17, 2021, 04:26 AM
Jan 2021

heated by propane torches blasting away, just so they could have a dining-out experience. I would feel guilt-ridden the whole time.

Latest Discussions»Issue Forums»Environment & Energy»Restaurants, bars scrambl...