What Are Propane Furnaces
A propane furnace is a device used to provide heat in your home. A good source of alternative energy, these furnaces burn propane gas and convert it into energy that can be used to meet the heating needs of your house. Some appliances run on conventional power and others use renewable sources such as biomass and solar power but at least one appliance in every household needs a heating system that burns fuel to deliver heat.
The Benefits of Propane Furnaces
The propane furnace has been around for over three decades. In the past, it has been used as a backup method to heat homes during power outages but there are other benefits to using these furnaces as well.
Propane furnaces do not produce any kind of fumes or toxic substances during combustion. These days, you can accommodate a propane tank in your garage to fuel the furnace and any other appliances that may need it for its operation. One small propane tank can provide heat for a whole house for weeks! They also minimize noise pollution and are quite affordable compared to other heating options.
Propane furnaces are very beneficial in terms of energy efficiency and safety as well because they can switch from one fuel source to another when there is a need for power. These furnaces come with an automatic ignition system that automatically turns the device on and off depending on needed temperature levels.
How Do You Install a Propane Furnace?
Many homeowners who have propane furnaces installed in their homes, do it themselves. But if you are too busy or you lack the experience, hiring a professional maybe your best option. The cost of installation depends on various factors such as location and size of home or building among others. It is important to keep in mind that propane furnaces need to be professionally installed by a licensed plumber.
A propane furnace installation cost typically ranges from $500 - $1,000 depending on the size of your home or building and other factors such as new or existing duct systems. But if you have an unfinished area where you want to install the furnace, you might need to give more than the usual amount.
Should I Hire an Expert To Install My Propane Furnace?
While installing your propane furnace may be easy, there are many benefits of hiring experts to handle this job for you. You can get a list of licensed professionals from your local yellow pages or from friends and neighbors who have a propane furnace. You should be cautious of the fact that many companies offer cheap products and services so you should find one who can give you a warranty for their work as well as for the parts they use.
When it comes to installation, there are three methods that professionals typically use:
1) A thru-the-wall installation kit
2) A direct vent kit
3) Energy-efficient conversion kit.
A thru-the-wall installation kit is the most common method for propane furnace installations because it can be used for existing duct systems. It does not require any space outside of your wall and you won't need to make major changes to your living area. A direct vent kit, on the other hand, is another popular alternative. This method does not require any ducts but it can only be used outdoors where there are no fans or air conditioners. The energy-efficient conversion kit requires existing ductwork to deliver heat inside your home.
A final consideration when hiring a professional for your propane furnace installation is the cost of maintaining your furnace. Some heating systems only require regular cleaning to make sure they are running efficiently but if you choose a propane furnace, you will need regular inspections and tune-ups to keep it working at optimum levels. With this in mind, chances are that if you hire a professional for installation, he or she can also do the tune-up work for you.