Should You Switch to Propane for Home Heating? Pros and Cons

The recent change of seasons has brought cooler air to some areas. We went from the summer warmth to the crisp fall air in just a matter of days. This temperature switch has left some people thinking about their home heating options for the rest of the year and beyond. A common concern is whether or not your current home heating system is efficient enough for the colder months.

Using propane for home heating is a popular option for many homeowners. This is just one of many different home heating options available for homeowners. Before you decide if propane is right for you, check out a few pros and cons about propane heating for your home:

Pros:

1. Propane is energy efficient.

Most propane furnaces have an energy efficiency rating of 90 percent or higher. This means that only 10 percent of propane heating is wasted. Most other traditional home heating systems have energy efficiency ratings of around 75 to 80 percent. The higher the efficiency rating, the less money wasted heating your home this fall and winter.

2. Propane burns cleaner.

There are no nasty fumes or messy wood ashes to worry about when using a propane heating system. This means there are less health hazards for the occupants of your home. Every heating system requires regular maintenance, of course, so make sure your fuel lines are inspected regularly to prevent any possible issues.

3. Propane is convenient.

Propane heating systems can be installed almost anywhere. If you have a large house, a Lakeshore cabin or a small shed in the backyard that you want heated, propane systems can fit just about any kind of building. Central heaters, combination heaters and wall units are designed for different needs.

Cons:

1. Propane can be expensive.

While propane system installation and setup can cost quite a bit more than other heating systems, their relatively low maintenance costs and high-energy efficiencies usually help the system pay for itself in the long run. There is also no monthly propane bill, and propane systems are built to last for a very long time.

2. Installation can be time-consuming.

Propane system installations can be rather complex. Instead of doing this job yourself, you’re probably better off doing a professional do the job for you. The process can be lengthy and can interfere with your daily household activities at times. If you’re going to have a propane system installed, it’s best to do so in the warmer months before you really need to heat your home on a regular basis.

If you are considering installing a propane heating system in your home, helpful hints from Great Valley Propane Maryland and other sites have a wealth of information and answers to your home heating questions. You may also want to review pricing, the types of different home heating systems that are available and check on installation contractors in your area.

Whatever you decide, don’t wait until the cold weather hits, or when your struggling furnace finally breaks down. You want your home and your family to be warm and cozy during the cooler fall days and the downright chilly winter months. Keeping your home properly heated is something no homeowner should overlook.