RESIDENTIAL USES

Central Heating
Propane gas is an efficient, reliable source of fuel for home heating. To determine just how efficient a gas furnace or boiler is, find the AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) rating on the manufacturer's yellow "Energy Guide Label". Mid-efficiency furnaces have AFUE ratings of 79 percent to 89 percent AFUE, compared to 90 percent or higher for high-efficiency furnace units. This means that more than 80 percent of the heat generated in the home is usable. As expected, higher AFUE ratings mean lower operating costs over the life of the system.

More than just being energy-efficient, propane gas heat is also comfortable because it creates heat that is noticeably warmer than body temperature. When gas heat is circulated, it warms evenly throughout the home delivering about 115 degree heat which is more comfortable and doesn't dry the air.

In contrast, some electric heating systems deliver heat at 95 degrees F, which is below normal body temperature. That's why the heated air still feels chilly to the skin, regardless of the thermostat reading. The problem results from electric air-to-air heat pumps, which extract heat from outdoor air. As the temperature drops outdoors, so does the heat generated inside the home. Electric geothermal heat pumps absorb heat from the ground instead of air, but like air-to-air heat pumps, they lack the efficiency and comfort of propane gas heat.

Fireplace Products
Propane gas fireplaces and stoves are becoming increasingly popular as people discover their convenience, environmental benefits, and energy efficiency. In addition to the charm they add to any home, propane gas hearth products are an excellent source of supplemental heat.

Propane gas fireplaces and stoves heat more evenly and more efficiently than wood-burning hearth products. They can also heat a larger area, which means less reliance on primary home-heating systems and significant cost savings. In contrast, wood-burning fireplaces can lose as much as 90 percent of the heat they generate through the chimney. In addition, the heat that does radiate from the fireplace tends to fade just a few feet from the fireplace, especially as logs burn down.

Today, there are vent-free propane gas fireplaces and decorative stoves for virtually any style of home, including manufactured homes.

Water Heaters
Hot water is easy to take for granted until it is not available. A propane gas water heater, with its rapid recovery rate, can meet the daily demand for hot water. Best of all, it can do so cost-efficiently.

Water heaters are the second largest energy users in most homes makingthe cost of their operation an important issue in managing your monthly energy costs. The yellow "Energy Guide Label" on every water heater highlights information consumers should consider before making a purchasing decision. A unit fueled by propane gas heats more than twice as much water in an hour than a comparable electric model!

Ranges and Stoves
Almost any gas-fueled stove, oven or cooking surface can operate on propane gas. Thus, propane gas is ideal for any kitchen, whether it is equipped with the most basic gas stove or professional-grade, restaurant-style appliances for the gourmet cook. There is a propane gas range to suit any lifestyle and budget.

Gas ranges or stoves offer faster, more precise temperature control than electric units. This allows adjusting from a boil to simmer in seconds. Propane gas also provides an even heat across the bottom of pots and pans, which means fewer hot spots that can burn food.

Laundry Dryers
Propane gas dryers can save time and money. They quickly reach desired temperatures to dry clothes evenly. The moist heat they produce is also not as likely to burn or discolor fabrics as electric dryers. The net result is less wear and tear on fabrics, which saves money. A propane gas dryer will pay dividends for years to come.

Propane gas dryers are technically advanced and offer a variety of features to reduce energy costs and improve efficiency. No matter how large or small your loads of laundry are, propane gas clothes dryers can put a new spin on an old chore while helping you save money.