As a homeowner, you have many options to choose from for your energy source. Propane, natural gas, electric, oil, geothermal - the options are endless. We obviously love propane! It's efficient, clean, and so versatile. Many homeowners usually have a toss up with propane vs electric heat. When deciding between propane versus electric heat, it’s important to understand the fundamental differences between the two energy sources. Below is a breakdown of some of the differences.
What's the difference between Propane vs. Electric Heat?
Propane is a primary energy source, whereas electricity is technically a secondary energy source. Propane energy is used directly, whereas electrical energy is actually used after the electricity is generated from a primary energy source such as, but not limited to, natural gas or petroleum. One gallon of propane contains the same amount of usable energy as 27 Kilowatt Hours. Propane creates more energy than electric in a more efficient time. It works smarter and harder for your home ... and your wallet!
Propane vs. Electric Heat Cost - Save Dollars
On average, propane costs about half as much per BTU as electricity. A propane furnace heats the air, operating in short intervals, and minimalizing operating costs.
Can you feel the heat? Propane vs. Electric Heat that is.
A propane furnace produces a much warmer heat than an electric heat pump. Propane runs around 130°F to 140°F whereas electric runs below the normal body temperature of 98.6°F (Brr!). Which means that your electric heat pump will have to work harder to provide the same heat that a propane furnace has to. And a propane furnace operates with between 92-98% efficiency.
Propane is there when electricity isn't.
When an electrical outage occurs (snow, wind, inclement weather, power glitches), you can still have warmth, hot water, and cook up a storm with propane. Propane is also a great fuel for a back-up generator in your electric home.