Different Ways To Use Propane at Home
Heat in the Winter, Grilling in the Summer and More
We hope you know by now that versatile, efficient and clean-burning propane can not only heat your home, it can power everything from water heaters, generators and stoves, along with cooktops, fireplaces, clothes dryers, outdoor grills, space heaters and more.
That’s why North Carolinians should consider propane as their fuel for all seasons. Let’s take a closer look.
Extend the Summer Season with Propane Outdoor Heaters
Not ready to say goodbye to summer yet? Propane gives you many ways to enjoy the Great Outdoors well past summer—right in your own backyard. Having access to a range of outdoor propane heaters is just one way to do that.
With freestanding or wall-mounted models available, you’re certain to find a propane patio heater that meets your needs and budget – and one that will work even if the power goes out.
You can also enjoy a swim after summer ends by investing in a propane pool heater, which will heat your pool water quickly and efficiently – and far more effectively than an electric model.
Other outdoor living options for propane include a wide variety of grills, lighting and mosquito traps.
Propane Keeps You Warm in Winter
Of course, sooner or later you’ll have to hunker down inside when winter shows up in North Carolina. But because of its versatility, propane has you well-covered there for just about any situation too. Here are just two ways you can get ready for the cold weather with the help of propane.
A Warm Glow from a Propane Gas Fireplace
If you have an old wood-burning fireplace that is no longer functional, it’s easy to convert it to a safe, clean-burning propane gas insert. Propane gas fireplaces are virtually maintenance-free and come in many different styles.
Propane gas fireplaces produce a much lighter environmental footprint than traditional wood fireplaces. They produce fewer particulate emissions and less carbon monoxide compared with wood-burning fireplaces.
But you have other options beyond wood fireplace conversions. One popular product choice in North Carolina is the vent-free gas fireplace log set. This is a self-contained system that can be installed in walls or even open areas, with no outlet to the outdoor air. These gas log units can also be installed in place of old and unused wood-burning hearths that connect to a chimney but where the flue has been sealed shut.
A ventless gas fireplace is also a great choice if you are looking for the highest heating efficiency possible. As its name implies, this type of fireplace is not vented to the outside. Because of this, all the heat produced is contained in the living space. Ventless fireplaces are more energy efficient than vented fireplaces because no heat escapes up the flue, so you’ll save money on fuel.
However, since vent-free gas logs produce a small quantity of exhaust into your indoor environment, they are not appropriate for bedrooms or other small, closed spaces like bathrooms or RVs. Vent-free gas logs are also prohibited in some local building regulations. Before going ahead with your ventless gas fireplace installation, check to see if vent-free gas logs are permissible in your community.
Power through Winter with a Propane Generator
Why not make the investment in a whole-house propane generator this season? You’ll be able to maintain control of the situation in the event of a power outage, without missing a beat when it comes to temperature control, refrigeration, lighting and more, including security systems, medical equipment and sump pumps.
Generators range quite a bit in size – and price – depending on which and how many of each category of appliances you want or need to operate when the power is out. A small, 5-kW unit, for example, can operate power essentials such as lights, a refrigerator, a television and other small appliances. Naturally, it would require a lot less propane to run than a large model.
On the other hand, a large, 25-kW generator can easily run high-wattage heating or air conditioning units while still being able to turn on lights and appliances. Depending on what other high wattage appliances are being run, a 25-kW generator may only be able to power one cooling system so it is best to consider what you want your generator to accomplish.
Learn more about getting the most out of propane appliances –—no matter the season!