How to Conserve Propane

Conserving propane is good for your bank account and the environment. Whether you use propane for your everyday appliances, heating your home or regular cooking, monitoring your propane usage can lead to significant savings.

By upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, homeowners can substantially reduce propane use. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), water heating is the third-largest energy expense in the home, taking up 12% of your utility bill. Switching to an energy-efficient tankless water heater could cut your costs by up to 34%.

While modern propane appliances are designed to operate more efficiently, there are steps you can take as a homeowner to maximize your home energy without breaking your bank account.

Optimize Home Energy Use

Switching to a programmable thermostat allows homeowners to set temperatures whenever they want. The DOE says 43% of a home utility bill goes to heating and cooling. If you upgrade your system and make the proper adjustments, you could cut your utility costs by as much as 50%.

Even after upgrading, it’s essential to stay up-to-date elsewhere. Regular maintenance of propane systems, including furnaces, water heaters and gas lines, ensures they’re working and effective. Annual professional inspections help detect leaks and inefficiencies to make sure you’re not wasting propane. Keep in mind that less waste means longer usage.

Consider adding or increasing home insulation. A well-insulated home retains heat better, reducing the need for constant propane use. Sealing air leaks around windows, doors and attics can help maintain indoor temperatures.

Smart Propane Use in Daily Life

We can make small adjustments in our everyday lives that add up to make big impacts in our propane conservation, like:

1. Put lids on pots and cook multiple dishes at once.
2. Turn the burners off early to use residual heat to finish cooking.
3. Lower the temperature on a propane water heater to 120°F. This cuts down on energy use without compromising comfort.
4. Insulate the water heater tank and use low-flow showerheads.
5. Wash clothes in cold water, dry full loads of laundry using moisture-sensing settings and air-drying clothes when possible.

Alternative Heating and Outdoor Efficiency

Fireplaces, wood stoves and space heaters can help supplement home heating and reduce propane use. Using energy-efficient electric blankets and layering clothing can keep us warm without turning up the thermostat.

Remember to conserve propane when you’re outside. Many homeowners use propane for grilling, fire pits and patio heaters. To conserve fuel outside, preheat your grill only when it’s necessary, turn off the appliances when you’re not using them and properly store propane tanks.

Monitoring Propane Usage

Being aware of propane consumption helps homeowners identify areas where they can cut back. Many propane providers offer tank monitoring services, allowing homeowners to track usage and make adjustments to save fuel and money. Conserving propane helps reduce household expenses and benefits the environment by decreasing energy waste.

Learning to conserve propane can lower your energy costs and help the environment. By making small adjustments in appliance use, home insulation and daily habits, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of propane while using it more efficiently. It’s never too late to get started — check to see if there’s delivery service in your area.