Whole House Heating with Propane
General Propane Information
In the Northern climates, homes can be drafty and are usually kept at a lower temperature to keep heating costs down. In fact, many people in these areas will not heat their homes until it hits a certain temperature and it is not uncommon to spend most of the winter at around 65 degrees Fahrenheit. To get the most out of your house heating system, you want to make sure that you install the right type of system for your home. In some cases, this might mean installing gas logs with an insert or a standalone unit in your fireplace. In other cases, it might mean installing a whole-house propane heating system instead of using natural gas or electric baseboard heaters. Here is what you need to know about whole-house propane heating systems and whether or not they would work well for your home.
Photo Credit goes to Randall Mann
What is a Whole House Heating System?
Whole house heating systems are also known as baseboard heating systems. They use either hot water or warm air to heat your home. Warm air is, of course, better because it is not as dry as water and can help increase the humidity in your home. Hot water is, however, more efficient and is the more common option. This system consists of a network of metal pipes that are run throughout your home. The pipes are either connected to your home's central water source or they tap into the water supply from a nearby source. The pipes then run throughout your home and are fitted with metal or wooden panels at every joint. These panels act as a radiator and are where the heat is released.
Pros of Whole House Heating with Propane
There are a few reasons why someone might choose a propane heating system over other systems. Most notably, cost. Propane heating systems, especially when installed as a whole house heating system, are less expensive than other systems. The simplicity of using a propane system also makes it a really good option. It is very little in the way of complicated installation, maintenance, or repair work needed. This makes it particularly good for homeowners who are not as handy or don't have a lot of time to keep up with their systems. As propane systems are usually connected to a nearby water source, they can be used as a source of hot water in your home as well. This is particularly useful in Northern climates where it can be cold enough to warrant keeping your water source cold.
Cons of Whole House Heating with Propane
Propane is not a renewable resource and is a fossil fuel. Unfortunately, fossil fuels are non-renewable resources and are not as safe or clean as other types of heating systems. Propane is not as bad for the environment as other fossil fuels, but it does have its negative effects. Iron pipes are used in most propane systems, and although they are coated with a substance meant to protect against rust, they can still be affected. Rust is not something you want to see in your water pipes, and propane can cause this to happen. Whole-house propane heating systems also require certain safety precautions to be in place, which can make installation a little more challenging. Propane systems also require more maintenance than other systems.
Is a Whole House Heating System Worth It?
A whole house heating system is really only worth it if your home is particularly drafty or you are trying to save money on your heating costs. If you have a well-insulated home, you likely won't see any benefit from using a propane heating system. If your home is particularly drafty and you want to save on your heating bills, a propane heating system would be a good option. Propane is significantly cheaper than other forms of fuel, which means you can spend less on your heating costs. Whole house heating systems are a great option if you want a very efficient heating system or if you have a very drafty home. They are not, however, suitable for every home. If you are considering a propane heating system, make sure you know what is involved in the installation process. A professional will be able to walk you through the pros and cons of this type of system and help you determine if it is the right choice for your home.
Summary
Whole house heating systems are a great option if you have a very drafty home or if you want a very efficient heating system. They are not, however, suitable for every home. If you are considering a propane heating system, make sure you know what is involved in the installation process. A professional will be able to walk you through the pros and cons of this type of system and help you determine if it is the right choice for your home. If you have a very drafty home, a whole-house heating system is a great option. They are not, however, suitable for every home. If you are considering a propane heating system, make sure you know what is involved in the installation process. A professional will be able to walk you through the pros and cons of this type of system and help you determine if it is the right choice for your home.