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To take the chill out of winter, a growing number of Americans across the country plan to keep their homes cozy and comfortable by filling up on propane for their furnaces, water heaters, cooktops and fireplaces. In addition to providing warmth for your home and family, propane ensures a steady energy supply during winter storms when power outages are likely.
There are many ways we can be economical and responsible in our energy use. The Propane Education & Research Council and the National Propane Gas Association have developed a list of "Exceptional Energy" efficiency tips to help homeowners enjoy maximum comfort at a minimum cost.
Home Heating
• Have your heating system regularly tuned-up by a professional.
• Change your furnace filters every month.
• Invest in a furnace thermostat timer. This will save money by lowering your home's temperature when you are out.
• Caulk and weather-strip your doors and windows to avoid drafts.
• Consider fueling your fireplace with propane. Propane fireplaces burn more efficiently and distribute heat more evenly than wood-burning models.
Water Heaters
• Turn water heaters down from the standard 140 degrees to 130 degrees and save more than 10 percent on your water-heating bills.
• Drain water heaters every six months to remove lime deposits and sediments.
• Install flow-restricting showerheads to reduce hot water usage by up to 50 percent without affecting shower pressure.
Home Appliances
• Consider installing a gas range with electronic ignition systems. They use 40 percent less energy than a standing pilot system.
• Check to make sure your oven burners are burning a blue, cone-shaped flame.
• Inspect the seal on your oven door. Gaps or tears in the seal will let heat escape and waste valuable energy.
By warming to these tips you can help take the chill out when temperatures drop.
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