Grain Dryers
Technology That Farmers Bank On
Today's propane grain drying technology is up to 50 percent more efficient than older models. That's savings you can count on. Farmers know it’s reliable, effective, and efficient — which is why it's been the number one choice of American producers for decades.
If you know propane is the right option for you, it’s always good to stock up early. You can get a quick estimate of the gallons you might need using the calculator below, and then work with your supplier to plan for the exact amount that’s right for your operation.
Propane Just Makes Sense
There are plenty of reasons why more than 80 percent of grain dryers run on propane. Propane is portable, so it’s ready to work whenever and wherever you are without the high expense of connecting to a supply line. Propane stores exceptionally well, so there’s no need to drain tanks or stabilize fuel from one season to the next. The way propane is delivered and stored, fuel theft is of little to no concern. And your supplier can work out a delivery schedule that ensures your tank is always full.
When it comes to drying grain, propane is tough to beat. With a higher BTU than natural gas and reliable on-site fuel storage, you get fewer shutdowns. The gas controls for propane-powered grain dryers are smaller and more economical. Plus, propane will not contaminate your grain.
Cut Those Hidden Costs
Propane grain dryers can also help cut hidden costs you normally don’t factor in, such as yield loss. Leaving crops in the field is only leaving things to chance. On-farm drying with a propane grain dryer puts you back in the driver’s seat, with flexibility in harvesting and more control over marketing your grain. That’s money in your pocket. And those premiums you paid the elevator to dry your grain in the past will be eliminated with on-farm drying with propane.
A New Generation of Dryers
While many farmers have experience with propane grain dryers, they may not be familiar with the latest models and just how far the technology has progressed. Today’s grain dryers use about half the propane of older systems, which were already efficient. It takes approximately 1,650 BTUs to remove a pound of water, compared with older technology that takes as much as 3,500 BTUs.
Today’s continuous-flow propane dryers were designed with fast-paced, high-yield operations in mind. They’re designed for a long life, with low maintenance requirements, giving you more drying time and less downtime.
It All Adds Up
Today’s generation of propane grain dryers stretch fuel savings farther than ever before. They’re up to 50 percent more energy efficient. They’re longer lasting. Propane burns clean, cutting down on maintenance time and costs. When you take advantage of the Propane Farm Incentive Program or other available local incentives, the upfront costs are even lower. Now is the time to check out a new propane grain dryer.
What Farmers Are Saying
Results from the 2014 Propane Farm Incentive Program found that for drying grain, propane is the top choice among farmers.
- 80% chose propane to replace their existing propane dryer.
- 50% chose propane for its reliability and environmental friendliness.
- 80% cited lower cost as a factor in selecting a propane dryer.
Talk To Your Equipment Dealer and Propane Supplier
Your equipment dealer is a great resource to learn more about propane grain dryers. They can discuss the benefits of propane, what capacity dryer will fit your operation best, and connect you with a propane provider. You can also contact your local propane provider directly to start the conversation about propane-powered equipment.
A Grain Dryer Upgrade With An Added Bonus
Manufacturers
Frequently Asked Questions
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How can a new propane-powered grain dryer benefit my operation?
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Today’s propane-powered grain dryers use up to 50 percent less thermal energy to do the same job as the previous generation of dryers. Today’s models take approximately 1,650 Btus to remove a pound of water, compared with older technology that takes as much as 3,500 Btus.
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How reliable are new propane-powered grain dryers?
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Today’s continuous flow propane dryers were designed with fast-paced, high-yield operations in mind. They’re designed for a long life, with low maintenance requirements, giving you more drying time and less downtime.
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What are my first steps for adding a propane grain dryer to my operation?
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Ask your equipment dealer for information on the propane grain dryers they carry, work together to determine your equipment needs, and reach out to your propane supplier to discuss a fueling schedule and contract.
Find A Propane Supplier
To find a propane supplier near you, simply enter your zip code below. Your local propane supplier can help assess energy needs for homes and businesses, determine needed tank sizes, and answer questions about what makes propane a clean, safe, reliable and versatile fuel.
Didn’t Find What You’re Looking For? Check Our FAQs.
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Where can I buy propane appliances?
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Propane.com offers shopping guides for grills and patio heaters or contact your local propane supplier for suggestions nearby. Some propane suppliers offer appliance showrooms featuring everything from space and water heaters to kitchen appliances and fireplaces.
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What do I do when my portable propane tank is empty?
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When the propane tank you use for grilling or other outdoor appliances is empty, drop it off and purchase a full tank at one of thousands of tank exchanges nationwide. You’ll find them everywhere from hardware and rental stores to grocers, convenience stores, and gas stations. In addition, there are many propane cylinder refilling locations available across the country. Contact your local propane supplier for more information on refilling or exchanging cylinders.
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Where can I find someone to service my propane appliances?
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Your local propane supplier is an excellent source of information for things like propane appliance servicing and repairs. Contact them with your questions about servicing, repairing, or replacing propane appliances.