Buying a propane-powered home

Moving into a new home can be overwhelming. Between packing, paperwork and more, there are plenty of challenges.

But even if you’re new to propane, owning a propane-powered home isn’t a challenge — it’s a benefit. The price of propane tends to be more stable than other fuels, making your heating bill more predictable. Because no power grid connections are necessary, propane is more accessible and reliable during unpredictable weather. Plus, working with a propane distributor means you’re supporting a local business.

If you’re purchasing a home that’s powered by propane, the following tips can help you get even more out of this reliable and efficient fuel.

How do I care for my home propane tank?

With the right setup, propane tanks for homes can take care of themselves with little maintenance or energy. And, by having a trustworthy distributor or exploring potential deals or rebates, propane becomes an even more reliable and affordable option. Here’s how to get started:

• Get in touch with a home propane distributor and have them conduct a safety check.
  The previous owners of your property will have an existing relationship with a propane distributor, but it may be worth exploring other options in your area. You want a partner you can trust and someone who will be available should issues arise. When contacting a new distributor, ask to have a propane safety check conducted before any propane is delivered to your house.
• Look into money-saving options.
  When talking with distributors, ask them if they offer any residential rebates or summer fill programs for propane-powered houses. Generally, filling your tank in the summer in preparation for the winter will be less expensive because of lower fuel demand. To help control costs further, ask about average monthly billing for home propane, which will estimate your fuel costs for the full year and bill you an average monthly rate to make budgeting easier.
• Take advantage of tank-filling technology.
  Many tanks, whether for a large operation or for home propane, come equipped with a propane tank monitoring device that will automatically alert your distributor when levels get low. In addition, your distributor may perform periodic leak checks to ensure your equipment is running at maximum efficiency — and maximum safety.

Should I invest in propane appliances for my home?

Propane appliances offer higher efficiency, less maintenance and, in many cases, greater convenience than electric appliances. If you’re exploring a propane-powered dryer, a tankless water heater or a new gas range, heed the following advice.

• Hire a professional for installations.
  When it comes to installing propane equipment, it’s best to hire a professional. A contractor will be updated on the newest technology and can troubleshoot on the spot for any leaks or other issues. Safety should always come first.
• Consider a propane generator.
  A propane generator can be a more reliable option when preparing for bad weather. If you’re solely relying on the electric grid, power lines can get easily knocked down in dangerous weather, which can leave your family without power for days. Because propane is self-contained and does not have a shelf life, families can rely on it as a reliable and safe backup fuel source for their propane-powered house.

Once set up, your propane-powered home should run seamlessly — with the bonus of better efficiency and clean-burning energy. For other questions regarding rebates and at-home safety tips, be sure to check out the Propane Education and Research Council.

If you’re looking for a propane supplier, your local Cenex^® dealer can help with all your propane-powered home needs.