Clean Sweeps of Michigan's Blog

The Lowdown on Heating with Propane

Many homeowners mistakenly believe they must have access to natural gas to be able to install a gas-fueled fireplace; however, there is an alternative method of heating gas-fueled appliances: propane. You can enjoy the convenience and efficiency of a gas fireplace without having to dig up your yard to install pipes to connect to an underground natural gas source by fueling the fireplace with propane. You may be familiar with using propane with your gas grill, but did you know that propane can be used to fuel a furnace, a water heater, and a clothes dryer? While propane has many benefits as an alternative heating fuel source, it has a few drawbacks as well. We at Clean Sweeps of Michigan would like to tell you more about propane gas and its advantages and disadvantages to give you more information about this fuel option.

What Exactly Is Propane Gas?

A byproduct of petroleum refining and natural gas processing, propane is used widely to fuel central heating systems, barbecue grills, engines, and portable stoves. Propane can be converted into a liquid form by adding butane, and it is then known as LPG, liquified propane gas. First discovered in 1910 and then patented as an extraction process in 1913, propane was in mass production by the 1920’s and was used in millions of homes in the United States.

Propane Is a Green Fuel.

According to eHow, one of the main advantages of using propane as a heating fuel source is it burns cleanly and is more environmentally-friendly than other fuel sources. Propane is listed as an approved alternative fuel by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the Clean Air Act of 1990. It also made the list in the National Energy Policy Act of 1992. Additionally, propane is non-toxic and water-soluble, and since it is a gas, you don’t have to worry about it spilling, forming pools, or leaving behind residues which are harmful to the environment.

Propane Is an Inexpensive Heating Fuel Source.

An efficient-burning fuel, propane produces many more units of energy than other fuel sources per dollar. Cheaper than electricity, the US Department of Energy has stated that heating your home with propane costs far less than heating with electricity.

Propane Is a Relatively Safe Fuel.

Thanks to the strict codes and regulations developed by the propane industry and the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), propane has an impressive safety record. With built-in safety properties, propane will not ignite when combined with air unless the source of ignition reaches 940 degrees Fahrenheit. However, propane does have its risks. A propane leak can be very dangerous as it is heavier than air so it sinks and becomes concentrated at the floor level, where it can be difficult to detect. Also, propane is stored under high pressure, and any sudden decompression or rupture of its container can be a devastatingly violent and forceful event.

Interested in using propane to fuel your heating appliances? Contact Clean Sweeps of Michigan to talk to our expert staff about heating your home with this alternate fuel source.

Inserts vs Stoves vs Fireplaces

Regency Excalibur® P90 Medium Gas Fireplace

When it comes time to choose a new heating appliance, the choices can often be overwhelming. A traditional, wood-burning fireplace is no longer the only choice for homeowners looking to add warmth and ambiance to their homes. While there are dozens of different styles of heating appliances available, three of the most popular are inserts, stoves, and fireplaces. With more fuel choices and styles available than ever before, now is the perfect time to upgrade to a more modern heating appliance.

Inserts 

Unlike the open combustion of traditional fireplaces, fireplace inserts used a closed combustion system. This allows them to be more energy efficient as less warm air escapes up the chimney and less cool air enters a room. According to the Hearth, Patio, and Barbeque Association’s Leslie Wheeler, adding a fireplace insert has been known to reduce energy bills by as much as 40 percent.

There are fireplace inserts for a wide variety of fuel sources on the market today, as well as a variety of aesthetic styles. Clean Sweeps features a number of gas, pellet, and cast iron inserts, giving consumers the freedom to choose an insert that fits not only their style but also their budget.

Stoves

Free standing stoves are no longer just for rustic cabins or hunting lodges. These energy efficient appliances have begun to appear in more and more modern homes in recent years as homeowners are attracted to their ease of use, relatively low cost, and aesthetic appeal. Even during burn bands, EPA certified stoves are allowed to continue running.

Like inserts, stoves that burn many different fuel sources are available. Wood stoves are ideal for homeowners looking to replicate the look and feel of a traditional fireplace, whereas gas stoves offer the same aesthetic look without the work of chopping and hauling firewood. Pellet stoves combine the look and feel of wood with a more efficient fuel source, and cast iron stoves have a more traditional, rustic aesthetic.

Fireplaces 

According to the National Association of Realtors, 40% of home buyers are willing to pay more for a home with a fireplace. For homeowners looking to upgrade or install a fireplace, there are more choices than ever before in terms of fuel sources, styles, and cost.

While traditional, wood-burning fireplaces remain popular, gas is becoming an increasingly widespread choice due to its ease of use. With an ease of use that is as easy as flipping a switch and little to no necessary maintenance, gas offers many benefits to homeowners. However, wood still wins in terms of lower fuel costs and overall ambiance. Clean Sweeps has a variety of gas and wood fireplaces available in their showroom to fit most styles and budgets.

If you’re looking to replace, upgrade, or install a new heating appliance, trust the experts at the Clean Sweeps to help you make the right choice for your family. With a wide variety of available styles and brands, our friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to assist you today!