The “Hows” and “Whys” of Propane Conversion Kits

Professionals in the commercial landscaping and flooring industries face mounting pressure to increase productivity, control costs, and reduce environmental impact. Rising fuel prices, tightening emissions regulations, and unexpected equipment downtime can erode profits and hinder job completion. That’s why a growing number of businesses are investing in propane conversion kits.

Propane conversion kits transform conventional gasoline-powered machines into cleaner, more efficient propane-powered workhorses. For companies that rely on zero-turn mowers, walk-behind units, ride-on polishers, burnishers, and grinders, this single shift can mean significant savings, reduced maintenance, and a smaller environmental footprint. Propane conversion kits deliver a healthy return on investment while solving many common pain points with gasoline equipment.

What Are Propane Conversion Kits?
A propane conversion kit is an aftermarket solution that allows a gasoline-powered engine to run on propane. Rather than replace your entire fleet, these kits enable you to retrofit existing machines or purchase converted equipment directly from your dealership.

These kits typically include:

• Fuel regulators and mixers
• Carburetor adapters or fully replaced carburetors
• Mounting hardware and fuel lines
• Propane tank fittings

These components are specifically engineered to integrate with the small engines found in commercial landscaping and construction equipment. Whether you’re cutting acres of turf with a zero-turn mower or polishing concrete floors, there’s likely a conversion kit tailored to your equipment’s engine manufacturer.

Equipment dealers often work directly with kit manufacturers to order, install, and certify these systems before delivering the finished product to end users. This makes adoption simple for businesses that require plug-and-play solutions without additional complexity.

Leading Conversion Kit Providers
Three major companies offer propane conversion kits space for commercial landscaping and flooring equipment.

1. Alliance Small Engines: Alliance specializes in kits for Kawasaki, Kohler, and Honda engines—staples in commercial mowers.
2. Propane Power Systems (PPS): PPS focuses on converting Vanguard and Briggs & Stratton engines, both widely used in commercial mowers and indoor machines.
3. Onyx Systems: For flooring professionals, Onyx Systems caters to indoor flooring equipment like ride-on polishers, propane burnishers, and concrete grinders.

Making the Switch
Before converting your gasoline-powered equipment, it’s important to weigh a few critical factors:

• Engine Compatibility: Not every small engine can be converted to propane. Always verify compatibility with your engine model before purchasing a kit. Alliance, PPS, and Onyx offer customer support to help you determine the right fit.
• Professional Installation: A quality installation is vital. Poorly installed kits can compromise safety, void warranties, and reduce equipment performance. Work with authorized dealers or trained technicians to ensure your equipment is properly converted.
• Certification: All propane conversion kits used in commercial settings should be certified by the EPA and CARB (California Air Resources Board). Certifications guarantee that the kits meet strict environmental standards and won’t run afoul of local regulations. Propane conversion kits that are not EPA certified are illegal. All kits from Alliance, PPS, and Onyx meet these standards.
• Return on Investment: While there is an upfront cost, most propane conversions pay for themselves within one or two seasons. Reduced fuel costs, lower maintenance needs, and improved uptime all contribute to a faster ROI.

The Benefits of Propane-Powered Equipment
Propane conversion kits offer plenty of advantages that address the most pressing challenges in commercial landscaping and flooring:

• Enhanced Performance: Propane is cleaner than gasoline, leading to more complete combustion and less carbon buildup. This translates into smoother engine operation, fewer spark plug issues, and reduced wear on internal components, extending equipment lifespan.
• Cost Savings: Fuel is one of the largest ongoing costs for contractors and landscaping operations. Propane tends to be significantly cheaper and more stable in price than gasoline, providing predictability in budgeting. Over time, operators often see notable reductions in fuel spending.
• Sustainability and Compliance: Propane emits significantly fewer emissions than gasoline. For indoor equipment—especially in enclosed spaces like schools, hospitals, and retail centers—reduced emissions create a safer working environment. Additionally, propane-powered equipment contributes to broader sustainability goals. With growing emphasis on reducing carbon footprints, businesses that convert to propane position themselves as environmentally responsible.

Conclusion
Whether you’re mowing thousands of acres of turf or polishing indoor surfaces, propane conversion kits offer a simple yet transformative solution. Trusted suppliers like Alliance Small Engines, Propane Power Systems, and Onyx Systems are making it easier than ever to convert, maintain, and benefit from propane-powered operations. Propane conversion kits aren’t just an upgrade—they’re a competitive edge.

For more information on propane commercial mowers, visit Propane.com.