Big Bend Real Estate Guide January 2022 | Page 18

CLEAN HEAT

Stay warmer with clean energy

FAMILY FEATURES

Winter is a perfect time to think about renovations that bring coziness and warmth to your home . For homeowners who live off the natural gas line , propane is an earth-friendly option that can reliably and efficiently deliver warmer air all season long .

“ When homeowners upgrade to propane during a remodel , they transform a dream home to include comfort and performance with high-efficiency appliances that have low-carbon foot prints ,” said Susan Kadilak , owner of Kadilak Homes , a construction , renovation and interior design firm . “ Not only do families stay warmer with propane , they can feel better doing so because it ’ s clean energy .”
If you ’ re considering upgrades to bring more warmth to your home , start with these tips from Kadilak Homes and the Propane Education & Research Council :
n Do your research . Talk with your contractor about what you ’ re wanting to accomplish . Your local propane supplier is also equipped to help you navigate questions and find the right solution for your home . n Think cozy . If your electric furnace is struggling to keep a room warm , consider upgrading to a propane furnace to get to your desired temperature more efficiently . Propane furnaces blow hotter air , which is more comfortable than the belowbody-temperature air electric heat pumps produce . Propane furnaces also emit up to 50 % fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electric furnaces , according to the 2018 Gas Technology Institute Report , so you can feel good about your impact on the environment . n Make your home more efficient . As homes age , small cracks can develop around doors and windows and let cold air inside your home or allow warm air to escape . If the seals around the windows and doors are damaged , invest a few minutes to replace them and spend time caulking gaps . When your home is well-insulated , propane can efficiently keep your home toasty during chilly winter months .
Some of the most common clean energy heating upgrades homeowners request include fire places , furnaces and boilers .
Fireplaces
A roaring fire can be a focal point during the cold winter months . With 5-6 times the heating capacity of electric fireplaces , propane fireplaces are more energy efficient , environmentally friendly ,
18 Big Bend Real Estate Guide • January 2022