If you've been investigating the clean efficiency of propane, you're probably wondering what household appliances you can power with it. Other than propane burners and campsite propane stoves, what else can this gas do?
The short answer is almost anything natural gas and electricity does. Because America produces the vast majority of the propane it uses, efficient propane-powered products can be found anywhere. Still need some inspiration? Here are five household appliances propane can power indoors and outdoors.
1. Fireplaces
Many propane fireplaces come with thermostats
and remotes that let you adjust the heat from your couch. During winter power
outages, you'll have a heat source for everyone to gather around. Fueled by a refillable
propane tank, these fireplaces are
cleaner than traditional ones, as well. Wood-burning fireplaces can leave your
living room smelling of stale smoke and covered in soot.
2. Fire Pits
The only thing better than huddling around the
hearth on a cold night is relaxing by a fire in your own backyard. Because
they're powered by compact tanks, propane fire pits require less
preparation. When you're ready, turn on the gas and ignition source.
Afterwards, just turn it off and head inside.
3. Freezers and Refrigerators
With no moving parts, propane freezers and
refrigerators require a lot less maintenance than electric versions. Due to
these simplified mechanics, they are also a lot quieter than their electric
cousins. Like other household propane appliances, they can help you stay prepared
in case of an emergency or power outage.
4. Water Heaters
According to the EPA, water heaters account
for 15% of the average American household's energy use. Because propane heats water twice as fast as
electricity, you can get more hot water from a smaller tank, saving you more on
your monthly energy bill. In the event that your propane water heater is
damaged or punctured, the gas dissipates and vaporizes instead of gathering
into a hazardous, flammable pool.
5. Pools and Hot Tubs
Much like your indoor water supply, propane
heaters for pools and hot tubs work quicker than electric ones. Compared to
natural gas, propane is more energy-rich, resulting in needing less fuel. Even
on cold days, propane heaters maintain more even temperatures.
The Well-Rounded Power of Propane
These are only five household appliances that use propane, but the list goes on and on. As the number of propane-using Americans reaches over 60 million, more products powered by the gas are entering the market including clothes dryers, lawn equipment and outdoor lighting. Whether you want to start small or move closer to energy independence with propane generators and larger power supplies, there is an efficient, reliable solution for you. What you need to make it happen is a trustworthy specialty gas supplier or propane provider near you.
