Propane or Charcoal Grill: What’s the Best One For You?

Spring is just around the corner and that means the weather will soon be turning warmer. Soon enough, you’ll be grabbing your favorite pair of tongs and fire up the grill (that is if you haven’t already). But if your grill has seen better days, maybe it’s time for an upgrade! But which should choose: the reliable propane grill or the old-school charcoal grill?

With so many grill options to choose from, you may not know which grill is best for you. But don’t worry, we got your grill needs covered. Read on!

 

The Ultimate Decision: Propane or Charcoal Grill?

Propane or charcoal grill? This question has divided barbeque masters since the invention of the grill. Many prefer the smoky flavor that comes with a charcoal grill. Meanwhile, others are more interested in the efficiency that comes with propane. But if you’re not partial to either grilling method, how can you decide?

Before you can answer this question properly, you need to know what makes each grill distinct.

 

The Wonder of Propane Grills

Propane grills are known for their performance and their simplicity. With just a simple turn of the dial and a press of a button, it’s flame on! No need for a chimney starter to get your fire started. A propane grill also gives you more control of the temperature of your heat, allowing you to cook something slow and steady without having to worry about moving around hot coals to get the optimal cooking temperature.

Maybe you think the charcoal grill is more environmentally friendly than a propane grill but that is far from the truth! According to a study in the Environmental Impact Assessment Review, charcoal has a much larger carbon footprint than that of clean-burning propane gas.

And although we all love the smokiness of grilled food, it can sometimes be overpowering to the taste of more delicate foods like fruits and veggies. But, if you are looking to capture that smoky flavor with your propane grill, you will need to purchase a smoke box.

 

The Benefits of Charcoal Grills

Although a charcoal grill is a cheaper option compared to a propane grill, that doesn’t make them any less inferior! In fact, a charcoal grill can reach higher temperatures than propane, up to 600 degrees. Because they can reach those high temps, this will make your food taste even better. That’s because the juices from your food will drop down on the hot coals, creating a flavorful smoke that will go right back into your food. Yum!

However, there are some cons to the charcoal grill. Because it reaches hot temperatures, it can take quite some time to heat up the grill. On average, it can take up to 20 minutes to get the charcoal up to the proper cooking temperature (not including the time it takes to light the charcoal). Cleanup can be a time-consuming process as well — not only do you need to scrub the grates, but you’ll have to remove the ashes beforehand.

 

Still Undecided? Keystone Propane Has You Covered!

If you’re still undecided about going with either a propane or charcoal grill this summer, Keystone Propane has exactly what you need. From our line of top propane gas grills to one of the most versatile charcoal cookers on the market today, we can steer you in the right direction. So don’t wait for the warm weather — stop by our showroom to pick up your new grill today!

The Benefits of a Propane Fireplace

Brrr! It’s been a harsh winter so far here in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Each week is bringing snowfall, icy conditions, and frozen temperatures. Good thing we can all huddle around our propane fireplaces to stay warm!

What’s that? Don’t have a propane fireplace? It’s never too late!

There are so many benefits of a propane fireplace. Not only does it keep you warm on those frosty days, but is more efficient and safer than a wood-burning one.

But what makes a propane fireplace better than a typical fireplace? We’re glad you asked.

No Muss, No Fuss

We all know that a fireplace can take a lot of work. If your wood is wet or not seasoned properly, it’s going to take some time to get your fire to light and catch on. Then there’s the ash and soot that needs to be cleaned out before you start another fire. Not to mention the mess wood logs can leave behind!

Propane fireplaces easily light every time with just a touch of a button. There’s no wood to worry about so there won’t be any ash or soot that needs cleaning. Just a clean-burning fireplace that will be the centerpiece of your home.

It’s Safer Than a Wood Fireplace

In a gas fireplace, you don’t have to worry about any stray embers hitting your carpet or smoke filling up the room. This makes wood fireplaces unsafe to leave unattended, even when it looks like it’s completely out.

With propane gas fireplaces, there are no embers and no smoke to worry about. And just like lighting the fire, that push of a button means the fire is officially out.

It’s More Efficient

A wood fire definitely sets a mood. But what it doesn’t do is warm you up! According to the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency, wood fireplaces are an extremely inefficient way to heat your home since the drafts can pull the warmer air up the chimney, making the room colder.

The same can’t be said for propane gas fireplace inserts. According to HGTV, a one-pipe vent fireplace can provide a 50% efficiency rating whereas a two-pipe vent model has a 70% efficiency rating.

Propane Gas Fireplaces are Cheaper

When comparing the cost of a gas fireplace with a wood fireplace, it’s clear to see that propane gas fireplaces are a much cheaper option. With a wood fireplace, you have to purchase a cord of wood every winter, plus cleaning costs to keep it properly maintained.

With propane, after purchasing the inserts, all you have to worry about is keeping your propane tanks filled. That’s all!

Make the Switch to a Propane Gas Fireplace Today!

If you’re tired of struggling with a wood fireplace, now is the time to make the switch! With our large selection of propane gas fireplace and inserts, you’ll find the right fireplace that matches your style. To see what we have in store for you, visit our showroom, give us a call, or take a look at our products today!

Yes, Winter Grilling is Possible with Your Propane Grill

Grills work just as well in the cold as they do in the summer. But there are some differences in winter grilling you should be aware of.

Read more

Don’t Ignore These Symptoms of a Gas Leak in Your Home

Winter has arrived, and with it comes freezing temperatures and snowy forecasts. You may see an increase in your propane consumption during this time of the year and with it, the danger of gas leaks.

Although propane gas leaks can occur at any time of the year, the severe winter weather we experience here in Northeast Pennsylvania can cause more to occur. And it’s important to know what symptoms to look for when you think a leak has happened in your home.

 

The Symptoms of a Gas Leak

A Bad Odor: The most obvious sign of a propane gas leak is the odor. Although propane itself has no odor, many propane manufacturers add a chemical to the gas that produces a “rotten egg” smell.

A Hissing Noise: Another sign of a gas leak is a distinct hissing or whistling sound near the gas line. You may also see a cloud of dust near the whistling noise.

Dead Plants: Not only will your shrubs and grass suddenly turn brown, but your houseplants could be dying due to lack of oxygen in the air.

Flame Color: If you have a gas stove or fireplace, keep an eye on the flames’ color. Typically, the flames should be blue; but if they’re orange or yellow, the cause may be leaking gas.

Physical Symptoms: With a reduction of oxygen in the air, you’ll begin to experience symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. The most common symptoms include nausea, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, breathing difficulties, and much more.

 

Checking the Tank for Leaks: The Soap Test

The easiest way to find out if you have a leak is by checking the propane tank. Although it’s best to have a professional check for leaks, you can try the soap test on your propane tank if you’re still unsure. Here’s what you need to do: First, apply soapy water to where the propane tank’s cylinder valve and regular outlet connect. Then, slowly open the cylinder valve. If bubbles begin to form, then you have a leak.

 

What Do You Do If You Suspect a Gas Leak?

The first thing you need to do is put out any open flames immediately. Also, you don’t want to operate any appliances, lights, or even use your phone. Leave the area immediately, and remember to shut off the gas if it’s safe to do so. As soon as you’re secure, contact your propane retailer or emergency services right away. Do not return to the area until a technician checks your system to ensure all leaks are taken care of.

 

Keystone Propane is Here to Help

Keystone Propane, Inc. is available 24/7 to protect our customers in the event of a gas leak. We will check your system, correct any problems, and will let you know when it’s safe to return to your home. To us, our customers are much more than numbers — they’re family.

If you have any questions about our propane products or service, contact us today. We here to help.

Benefits of Propane Gas Logs For Your Home

Nights and mornings are becoming much cooler and a nice sit by the fireplace is what many look forward to this time of year. If you’re avoiding lighting the fireplace due to the cleanup, we have a solution and the benefits for you! Using propane gas is not only safer, but it’s also better for the environment. Continue reading for more benefits of propane gas fireplaces.

 

Propane Fireplaces Are Better For The Environment

Since there is less fuel needed to ignite, this means there is less of an environmental impact. Propane also burns much cleaner than wood. This allows for fewer carbon emissions with a propane fireplace insert. Ultimately, you’re saving the environment and your family in one simple switch!

 

A Safer Option

As you may know, open fires often have risks and dangers. Wood can collapse, embers can fly through your home causing a bigger fire in an unwelcomed area, and blown-back smoke. Creosote buildup in poorly kept chimneys can also cause larger fires. All of these problems can be eliminated with a propane gas log.

 

More Cost-Efficient

A propane fireplace insert is roughly 30% more efficient than wood-burning fireplaces. This means by switching to propane you’ll spend nearly 30% less to experience the same time by the fire. Propane gas logs can be used in your current fireplace, so no additional construction is even needed!

 

Extremely Convenient

Start enjoying the warmth of your fireplace without ever needing to gather wood or clean up ashes again! Easily turn on a switch and you can start enjoying your fire.

 

If we have convinced you of all the pros of propane fireplaces contact us today so we can get your fireplace switched to propane heat! We are happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Happy Fall and stay warm from Keystone Propane!

Extend Outdoor Fun With Propane

Nights will become cooler, and soon will the days, but your summer fun doesn’t need to come to an end just yet! There are many propane gas accessories to enhance your outdoor season way beyond when temperatures start to fall at the end of the summer and early fall months. Luckily, Keystone Propane can help provide you with the gear your home needs and quality propane to keep your outdoor fun lasting far past the autumn months and even into early winter.

A family favorite for cool summer nights and early fall is sitting around an outdoor propane fire pit. Propane fire pits can keep the chill away without the worry about creating a mess. Fires are also much easier to contain and safer to have for near your home. Easy to install and can be transported anywhere you go, it will be a great addition to both your backyard and your next camping trip! Keystone Propane can provide you with the perfect outdoor fire pit for your backyard and the tank of propane you’ll need to fire it up!

Enjoy cooking with fire no matter what time of year it is? Then a propane grill is for you! Propane grills are great to use any time of the year. Stay warm while you’re cooking up your favorites on the grill which instantly gives you the taste of summer! Propane grills are easier to maintain and clean especially when using grilling plates or using our easy-to-clean propane grilling accessories. The perfect way to keep those summer months going long after August.

Perhaps your patio is your favorite oasis. Don’t let the cold air keep you away! Outdoor propane patio heaters can keep you cozy, warm, and relax while enjoying the outdoors with loved ones. Perfect for your home patio or outside of your business. Keystone Propane can help you get the propane you need.

So whether it’s a crisp summer night or cool fall day, propane can enhance your outdoor experience to keeps your love of the outdoors continuing throughout the cooler seasons. Give Keystone Propane a call today to learn more about how we can help with your propane needs. And if you’re interested in seeing what propane products we have available, remember to stop by our showroom today!

Propane Contactless Delivery with Keystone Propane

Contactless delivery is a term that has grown with popularity during the time of COVID-19 pandemic. Other terms have also become more popular such as social distancing, lockdown, quarantine, etc. Luckily, we do and always have provided contactless propane delivery for our customers. Here are the few easy steps you can take to receive contactless propane refills or delivery.

 

Sign into Keystone Propane Customer Portal

First, as you would with any refill or delivery, sign in to the customer portal to schedule your delivery. You can do this from your computer or using our Keystone Propane app!

 

Keystone Propane Prepares for Delivery

Our dedicated staff receives your contactless propane delivery request and is ready to deliver your propane delivery or refill. We will call if we have any questions with your request.

 

Contactless Propane Delivery

Next, our team comes to your home or business and delivers your propane. You can pay online or on the Keystone Propane app. We fill your tank without contact, keeping both you and our team safe!

 

Leave a Review

If you’ve enjoyed your experience with us or want to let us know how we can improve our contactless propane delivery, leave us a review on Google or Facebook!

 

It’s really that simple! Our top priority is the safety of our customers. That’s why you should call us if you ever smell a leak, have questions, or would like us to deliver propane without contact. This pandemic is a learning curve for everyone and we pride ourselves in putting the needs of our customers first. For more information on how Keystone Propane can help you, visit our FAQs and safety pages on our website. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Lower Home Expenses While Working Remote

Now that some of us have been been working from home for a few months, it’s likely you’ve seen your water or energy bills start to creep up in price. You’re now cooking lunches at home, using more water for coffee, cooking, washing hands, etc. Additionally, you’re computer, lights, and tv’s are getting more use than normal. There are several ways you can cut back on expenses while working remotely. Here are five tips from Keystone Propane:

 

  1. When your phone, tablet, or laptop is fully charged, unplug it from the wall. Most chargers will continue to use energy even when they aren’t connected or charging your devices.
  2. Cooking more at home? Propane-fuelled cooktops and ovens offer instant and complete heat control. This makes cooking faster and more precise compared to other conventional cooking appliances. Due to quicker heat-up times, a gas stove can save you 10% to 30% to operate over an electric stove. Propane gas stoves will also allow you to cook in the event of an emergency power outing.
  3. Use sleep mode on your devices! Using your computer’s sleep mode or power management features can ultimately save you up to $50 a year. Even more, if you will not be using your computer or device for more than two hours, energy.gov suggests turning it off completely.
  4. You’re using more water. Whether it seems like it or not, your water consumption is rising while working remotely. Plus with the added precautions being taken in washing hands more often, the hot water will be running more often. Did you know a propane water heater can save you a significant amount of money on your bills each month? The average propane heater lasts about a decade longer than your electric water heating pumps as well. You won’t have to worry about maintaining and replacing your tank for many years!
  5. When your heating or cooling system is running, close the windows. Don’t waste your money or energy by literally throwing it out the window! If the temperature is nice outside, turn off your heating or cooling and open windows to save even more money!

 

Switching to propane in your home can save you money whether you’re currently working from home or not! While saving money, propane is also eco-friendly. Since propane is a light and simple hydrocarbon, it is easily one of the cleanest burning fossil fuels.  Additionally, propane is non-toxic. This means it will not harm soil or water or endanger the environment. If you have questions about switching to propane for your home contact Keystone Propane today!

 

5 Safety Tips for Propane Grilling

As June quickly approaches, you’ve likely already started your grilling season. Most safety tips for propane grilling may just need some common sense, but there are some safety precautions you may not have considered. Keystone Propane wants you to stay safe this summer with few tips to protect you and your family.

Never turn on the gas while your grill lid is closed.

Turning on the gas while the lid is closed causes the gas to build up inside your grill. This can cause a fireball to ignite and explode right in your face. It’s important to open the lid of the grill check for anything on the grill as well before igniting, so this should be a normal part of your grilling routine.

Do not overload the grill with food.

If too much fat drips down on the flames at once, it will cause flames to increase and can ultimately light nearby objects on fire. It’s especially important to not overload with particularly fatty meats that will cause more grease drippings.

Check your grill’s gas line for leaks.

There’s a simple at-home solution you can try to find gas leaks in your gas grill’s line. Make a solution of half liquid dish soap and half water and rub it on the hoses and connections. Next, turn your gas on with your grill lid open! If you spot large bubbles on the line or connections, that’s a sign that your hoses have tiny holes in it or that your connections are not secure. If you need assistance or help with your leaks contact Keystone Propane immediately.

Keep items to fight fires nearby.

It’s important to keep a fire extinguisher and spray bottle of water nearby while cooking. For smaller fires, a spray bottle can lower the flames without ruining your food. For flames that become out of control, use the fire extinguisher. Make sure you know how to use the fire extinguisher. Trying to figure out how to use it in an emergency can cause worse damage to your grill and put you and your loved ones in danger of bodily harm. If you’re unsure how to use it or are having an issue. Call 911 right away for assistance.

Never leave a lit grill unattended.

An out-of-control fire can double in size every minute. Be sure to plan the rest of your meal ahead of time so that you can focus your attention on grilling. Even if you can see your grill from inside your kitchen a grill fire can ignite fast and you need to handle it quickly.

As you can see, not being prepared for safety when grilling can lead to a multitude of problems. Keep yourself and your loved ones safe this summer.

Need a new grill? Take advantage of our $250 off Napoleon Grills this month only!

5 Family Activities to Do During Quarantine

During this difficult time of social distancing and staying home in quarantine with family it can be difficult to think of new activities to share with one another. While this time is hard, it’s an opportunity to bring families closer together as well. Here are some of our favorite activities you can do at home with family while quarantining during the COVID-19 pandemic or anytime!

  1. Sitting around your propane fireplace and reading a book together. Find a book everyone can enjoy and take turns reading and enjoying some screen-free moments together while staying warm and enjoying your propane fireplace’s glow.
  2. Gather your family for a different type of fireside chat. Sit around your propane firepit outside and roast marshmallows and play a card game. Enjoy laughs and delicious treats while spending quality time with your family.
  3. Build your own kabobs to grill on your propane gas grill. Get all the fixings cut up. Include steak, chicken, seafood, peppers, onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, pineapple, and more! The possibilities are endless. They’ll love building their own delicious creation and you’ll love grilling on your propane grill.
  4. Use your Big Green Egg to create your family’s own pizza. Set out all the toppings and let everyone decorate the pizza with their favorite meats and veggies. Use your Big Green Egg deep dish pizza stone to create the tastiest pizza to share with your family.
  5. Have an electric free night. Turn off all the lights and electronics, light your propane fireplace and light some candles. Tell scary or funny stories depending on your preference. A great way to interact with family and bond.

If you’re looking for any of these awesome propane items to help enhance your time at home with family. Contact the propane experts at Keystone Propane! We are here to help during this difficult time.