How Much is Propane this Year?

Propane (LP) costs this year are substantially higher than last year. With many residents, they are stuck paying these high bills. Natural gas is a luxury in many towns and on major roadways, but for those who are in rural areas it may be a long time coming.

Natural gas is very inexpensive and is distributed via pipelines from distribution centers. This keeps the price low and manageable. Residents who use propane must have it trucked in, and stored in a tank commonly known as a "pig." This method of distribution is expensive, just ask anyone who heats with LP. 

There are options. Upgrading your existing propane furnace to a new high efficient furnace could cut your bills up to 20 percent or more. If the homeowner is interested in a substantial savings of up to 40 percent, adding an air to air heat pump may be the answer. An air to air heat pump combined with a high efficiency furnace is called a hybrid system. This system efficiently heats and cools the home and minimizes the use of propane or natural gas. 

If the homeowner would like to completely get rid of propane a geothermal system may be a good alternative. Geothermal systems utilize the natural heating and cooling of the earth to keep your home comfortable. While this option is expensive up front, the value over time is considerable. Geothermal systems use a series of pumps to move fluid that is used to temper the home. 

Whether you use natural gas or propane to heat your home there are energy saving options out there. Winter is right around the corner, are you ready?