Propane is one of the most efficient, eco-friendly ways to power your Maine home – yet many people still think of it simply as the stuff in the white can under your grill. Here are some common myths about propane – and the truth behind them.
Myth #1: Propane can only be used for barbecues and camp stoves
Fact: You can use propane to power just about any type of home comfort equipment, including your:
Because it burns so hot and clean, propane will usually power these appliances more efficiently and with better performance than other energy sources – especially electricity. And remember, all of these appliances can be supplied with gas from a single, refillable tank – which means no more running to your local hardware store for a propane tank exchange.
Myth #2: Propane is Unsafe
Fact: Propane is as safe to use as any home energy source – in fact, because the propane industry is so heavily regulated by federal, state, and local laws and codes, it may be safer than most other forms of energy for use in the home.
Consider these propane safety facts:
Myth #3: Propane is expensive
Fact: Propane’s price is consistently lower than that of heating oil – sometimes significantly so. In fact, when you consider total cost of ownership of propane equipment, propane is one of the most cost effective energy choices around. Propane heats fast and effectively with little waste, with many propane appliances reaching efficiencies of 98 percent. And because propane is clean burning, investing in propane equipment saves you money by requiring less maintenance and having a longer operating life.
Myth #4: Propane is bad for the environment
Fact: Propane is one of the lightest, simplest hydrocarbons in existence; as a result, is one of the cleanest burning of all alternative fuels. Burning it produces less than half the carbon emitted by heating oil combustion, and less than electricity when it is produced by coal-fired generation plants. And because it is not toxic and does not pool, propane cannot contaminate water or soil in the event of a leak.
Myth #5: Propane isn’t always available
Fact: Propane is available in abundance in the U.S., and most of the supply is produced right here at home. Because it is a byproduct of the petroleum refinement process, the means to produce and distribute propane are already available without the need for additional investments of time and money.
Time for a new home heating system, and not sure whether to choose propane or heating oil? We can help. Contact us today to learn more or get a FREE, no obligation estimate on a propane conversion for your Maine home.
