Written on: October 28, 2024
Propane is a reliable, environmentally friendly energy source that offers much more than just heating and cooking. For South Florida homeowners, where heating needs are minimal, propane can power a wide range of appliances and systems, both indoors and outdoors. From increasing comfort to enhancing energy efficiency to delivering backup power in emergencies, propane is a versatile solution.
As the threat of hurricanes becomes more severe, even for homes far from the coastal flood zones, a source of backup power is essential. A propane standby generator can help you and your family get through extended outages safely.
Propane-fueled stand-by generators are connected to your home and your propane storage tank, so they go on within seconds of a power failure. That means you don’t need to wrestle a portable generator out of the garage and get it set up and started, while messing with fuel, possibly in the dark or in treacherous conditions. It also eliminates the need to search for gas to power a portable generator.
Your refrigerator keeps running, preventing the expense of replacing food. Medical equipment keeps running, protecting loved ones. You can opt for a whole-house generator, or just essential power to key equipment or a specific space.
According to Consumer Reports, a properly installed whole-house generator can increase the value of your home by as much as 5%. That’s a great return on your investment, even before you even need to use it. And having a back-up generator can lower home insurance costs. Many insurance plans will offer discounts on your homeowner’s insurance plan if you install a standby generator.
Beyond emergency generation, propane is a smart and efficient choice for a wide variety of every-day appliances that use hot water or heat, including washers and dryers, dishwashers, and space heaters. But it’s also great for fueling appliances that can make your home a little more fun, inside and out, that can add value to your home.
1. Fire Pits & Patio Heaters
Propane fire pits are perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere on your patio. In South Florida’s mild climate, these fire pits provide the warmth and ambiance of a traditional fire without the hassle of wood. Propane patio heaters allowing you to entertain outdoors or enjoy a quiet evening outside even when temperatures dip.
2. Pool and Spa Heating
Even though South Florida is warm most of the year, the cooler winter months can make your pool or spa a bit too chilly for comfort. Propane pool heaters offer fast, efficient heating, allowing you to extend your swimming season and enjoy a comfortable soak no matter the temperature.
3. Outdoor Grills
Nothing beats the precision and control you get cooking with gas. That’s why it’s the first choice of professional chefs in the kitchen—but it delivers the same precise temperature control on the patio. A propane grill makes outdoor cooking as easy as turning on your kitchen cooktop: Flip a switch, turn a knob and set your heat level. A propane grill is hot and ready to go in about 10 minutes. Compare that to 30 minutes or more to get charcoal hot.
4. Tankless Water Heaters
Propane tankless water heaters deliver hot water on demand and are more energy-efficient than traditional electric heaters. They are especially beneficial in South Florida, where managing energy costs is a priority, providing endless hot water without taking up space or wasting energy.
5. Mosquito Traps
Propane-powered mosquito traps are a must-have for outdoor spaces in South Florida, where mosquitoes are a constant nuisance. These traps help control mosquito populations without the use of harmful chemicals, making your backyard more comfortable and enjoyable.
Don’t miss out on all the benefits this versatile fuel can deliver. From practical appliances to make your day-to-day easier, to easy upgrades to make your home feel more welcoming, propane packs power. Reliable, on-time propane delivery from the team at Pico makes it even easier to enjoy.
Contact us to learn more today.