convenient to use and easier to install than woodburning models , Kadilak said . Some parts of the United States are banning wood-burning fireplaces due to their negative effects on the environment . Propanepowered fireplaces are an alternative that emit less soot and other air-polluting emissions . You can enjoy a toasty fire at the flip of a switch with no ash or soot to clean up and no firewood to store . Many models can also operate during electrical power outages , providing a critical source of heat to the home .
Furnaces
There can be a bone-chilling feeling when the furnace goes out in the middle of a cold winter . If your furnace is blowing cold air – or no air at all – it ’ s time for an upgrade . Before you buy , know propane-powered furnaces have 50 % longer lifespans than electric heat pumps , which reduces their overall lifetime cost for homeowners . Propane furnaces also provide warmer air than other heat sources , at 120-140 F .
Boilers
While furnaces rely on forced warm air to heat dwellings , boilers use hot water or steam to raise temperatures in homes . High-efficiency propane boilers offer performance , space savings and the versatility to provide heating , hot water and snow melting . This versatility also extends to the type of heating delivery system propane boilers serve , including hydronic baseboard systems , in-floor hydronic systems or forced-air systems where the hot water from the boiler ( instead of a furnace ) acts as the heat source .
Learn how propane can help keep your home cozy , including where you can find a propane supplier in your area , at propane . com / KadilakFireplaces .
10 Winter Safety Tips for a Propane-Fueled Home
If your home uses propane to generate heat or run appliances , there are some simple steps you can take to help keep your family safe and avoid potential dangers this winter .
1 . Make sure you have an adequate propane supply . Schedule regular winter visits with your propane supplier so you always have an adequate supply in your tank .
2 . Mark the location of your tank with a 昀 ag , pole or stake . Ensure it is higher than the average snow cover depth for your lo cation . These markers can help you avoid plow ing or shoveling rooftop snow on top of your tank . Should your tank become covered with snow , use a broom to clear it .
3 . Make sure your heating system and appliances are running e ciently . Before the start of each heating season , have a quali 昀 ed service technician inspect and service your appliances and propane system . This can help ensure your appliances are running as e ciently as possible .
4 . Create an emergency preparedness plan and review it with everyone in your family . Post a list with contact information for your propane supplier and emergency services along with instructions for turning o 昀 propane , electricity and water . If you need to turn o 昀 your pro pane , contact a service technician to inspect your pro pane system prior to turning it back on .
5 . Prepare a family disaster supply kit . Include several days ’ worth of water and canned foods , along with a can opener , extra clothes , blankets , 昀 ashlights and batteries . Also include a battery-powered weather radio so you can stay informed as conditions change .
6 . Check your chimneys , 昀 ue pipes , vent connectors and propane tank for damage , blockage or debris caused by snow and ice . Use a broom rather than a shovel and clear these areas frequently to help reduce the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning .
7 . Consider installing UL-listed propane gas detectors and carbon monoxide detectors . These detectors
can provide you and your family with an additional measure of security . Be sure to follow the manufacturer ’ s instructions regarding installation , location and maintenance .
8 . After a storm passes and it is safe to do so , check the entire area for downed power lines , damaged gas lines or damage to your propane tank . Immediately call your local utility company or propane supplier if any of these hazards exist . Do not attempt repairs yourself .
9 . Never use a stove for space heating and never use outdoor propane appliances indoors or in enclosed areas , particularly in the event of a power outage . Proper ventilation is necessary for safe operation , and the carbon monoxide fumes can be lethal . Only use appliances indoors that are designed and approved for indoor use . Never store , place or use a propane cylinder indoors or in an enclosed area .
10 . Conserve energy . Keep thermostats at 65 F during the day and 55 F at night , and close o 昀 any rooms that don ’ t need to be heated .
WestTexasMoves . com • BigBendRealEstateGuide . com 19