When you are installing a new HVAC system, you need to consider what fuel you are going to use for your boiler or furnace. While your biggest expenses will likely come from electricity consumption, you will still use a lot of natural gas. Understandably, you want to choose a gas that is affordable and energy efficient. Of course, these factors also depend on the size, brand, and model of the furnace or boiler that you install. This article explains why propane is one of the best natural gas is you can use for central HVAC systems of any size or type. You will see that is it is and eco-friendly and affordable choice.
Buy a Boiler Intended for Propane
Before you move forward, it is important realize that many furnaces and boilers are built for use with a specific gas. It is often difficult to change or retrofit your fuel supply. That is, if you buy a natural gas furnace, it will be difficult to update it so it can be used with propane. So, you often need to do your research before you make this investment.
Propane is Efficient
It is also important to point out that propane is an extremely efficient fuel no matter what boiler or furnace you bought. That is, modern propane boilers have had a very high AFUE rating, which stands for annual fuel utilization efficiency. This is basically a measurement of how much of the fuel that is burned can be converted to electricity. For example, an ultra-efficient modern boiler should have an AFUE over 95%. If you currently have an old furnace or boiler that is over 20 or 30 years old, it might only be burning at 60% efficiency. So, you are obviously going to see some immediate benefits if you install a modern propane-powered system.
Storing Propane
Propane is also a great fuel because it is easily stored. Any homes that don't have connection to public utilities have propane tanks. In the ground outside of their home. These things can be easily refilled once every few years, or whenever necessary. This makes it very easy to have an efficient and reliable fuel source, no matter where you live.
There are obviously a lot of things to consider, but fuel type is one of the first things you should decide upon. Obviously, if you do rely on public utilities, make sure that propane is readily available where you live.