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.

Preparing Your Grill for Spring Grilling

If you weren’t one of the few who braved the colder temperatures to grill your meals during the winter months, it may be time to pull the grill out of hibernation and prepare it for the season ahead! Even if you have used the grill a few times throughout the winter, it’s a good practice to clean and do a few safety checks to prepare for the spring and summer grilling seasons. Here are a few tips on how to best prep your grill!

 

Prep Your Cleaning Supplies

Start this process by gathering all the supplies you may need. A pail of soap and warm water, a sponge, paper towels, and a good grill scrub brush are all cleaning necessities. Be sure to have tools on hand for taking a part grill for easy cleaning. Some other things to have on hand just in case are a spatula, stainless steel cleaner, degreaser, and some fine sandpaper.

 

Clean and Scrub Your Grill

Start by taking grates off of your grill and cleaning them well with soap and water. We don’t recommend doing this frequently, a good clean start to your grilling season is always important. If it’s been a year or more since the last clean you may need to soak them. A proper clean will keep food from sticking when you fire up the grill.

Another easy cleaning trick can help reduce your elbow grease. By spraying the grates with equal parts of vinegar and water and waiting for about an hour, all grease and gunk will easily scrub away.

 

Inspect Parts On Your Grill

First, take apart as much of your grill as you can and clean both the inside and outside with soap and warm water using a strong bristled brush. Pay special attention to areas with a lot of grease build-up. It may even be helpful to use a citrus-based degreaser for the toughest greasy spots and don’t forget the grease tray.

Inspect your grill’s burners for any holes. Any burners with holes should be replaced immediately. Also, examine any tubes for spiders that may have found a home during cooler weather! It’s important to not forget to check around the air vents on your grill as well. Remove any debris to ensure free airflow and limit any fire hazards.

 

Check And Test Grill Ignition

Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned your grill, reinstall the burners. Replace any batteries if you have battery-powered ignition. For battery ignitions, it is always a good practice to replace old batteries with new ones. If you have a Napoleon Grill with the JETFIRE™ Ignition System, it’s also very important to doublecheck all electrode leads and ensure the tips of the electrodes are clean. Thoroughly check and make sure that they do not have grease or rust buildup on them if they do, you can use fine-grit sandpaper to gently buff them.

 

Fill Your Grill’s Propane Tank

Lastly, make sure your propane tank is full and ready to start grilling. It’s always best to have an extra tank on hand in case one runs out mid-grill! Contact Keystone Propane to learn more about how we can assist in all your home or business propane needs!

Have you completed all these tips and realized it’s just time for a new grill? Keystone Propane can help with that too! Check out our selection of propane gas grills!

Which Space Heater Is Right For Me?

Transform any space in your home into a warm and cozy oasis for all to enjoy! Whether it’s your garage, basement, closed-in porch, or even your living room, a space heater helps enhance the comfortable feeling you’ve been searching for.

Vent-Free Space Heaters

Vent-free propane space heaters do not need venting or ductwork to run and operate. They are the more cost-efficient of the space heaters and allow for greater flexibility with the installation since they do not need access to an external wall or outdoor venting.

While this is a great bonus of the vent-free space heaters, the downside is the combustion fumes are then vented inside your home or space. While this sounds intense, it is safe, but may affect individuals who are sensitive to smell or have certain allergies.

There are two types of vent-free propane gas heaters: infrared and blue flame. Both models are very efficient (usually 99 percent or more) and use about the same amount of gas to produce the same amount of overall heat.

  • Infrared vent-free space heaters use propane gas to heat up ceramic panels which in turn radiate the heat. These panels radiate heat to the room rather than heating the air. This makes the heat very targeted, so if standing in front of the radiated heat waves you’ll get warm very quickly.
  • Blue flame space heaters warm the air in the room by convection. The blue flame heater can take longer to heat an entire room as it’s heating the air rather than reflecting heat directly, but it will produce a more consistent temperature throughout the room. If your space is insulated, a blue flame heater is probably what you should go with!

Direct Vent Space Heaters

Direct vent propane space heaters are ductless systems that provide an economical and modest alternative to installing a traditional furnace or boiler. These heaters use outdoor air to heat an area or room. Any fumes from combustion are then vented to the outside by way of a small tube.

Some pros to direct vent space heaters include:

  • Its easy installation includes a simple one-hole venting system and no ductwork. Most installation services can be done in one day.
  • They are easy to operate. Direct vent heaters have programmable thermostats that allow you to adjust actions based on usage.
  • Precision heating offers the ability to vary heat intensity and fan speed and can make temperature changes as little as 1°F
  • The duct-free operation makes these heaters less expensive to install and conserve than a traditional furnace or boiler.

Both options are great to heat your home or cool area. Currently, Keystone Propane is offering 29% off all Empire vent-free space heaters in stock! Hurry up and take advantage before this offer ends on February 29, 2020!

Contact Keystone Propane for more information on how we can help you choose the perfect space heater and to learn more about the products in stock for our Leap Year Sale! Our team of experts will help you find the perfect propane solutions for your home or business.

Save Money at Home In The New Year

It’s a new year, a new decade, a fresh start. Most of us are starting to put together our resolutions and goals into action for the new year. A popular one among most people is cutting back on expenses in their home. Here are 5 suggestions on how you can cut back the monthly bills this year.

5 Ways to Save Money at Home In The New Year

Use a Programmable Thermostat

Did you know that turning your thermostat back 7-10 degrees while you’re at work or away can save you as much as 10% a year on cooling and heating for your home! If a programmable thermostat is not available or in the budget, start making it part of your morning routine to turn back the thermostat. When you get home you can feel out the temperature and adjust it back to what is most comfortable. With the programmable thermostat, you can set the temp to change about 30 min before you arrive home so you’re welcomed with a comfortable temperature.

Turn off the Lights

It’s easy to leave lights on when moving about your home. Start getting in the habit of turning lights out when leaving each room. Leaving a lamp on all day every day will add up over time. Also, try to get in the routine of checking all lights are off before leaving your home. A quick sweep of the house will end up saving you money in the long run!

Switch to Propane Gas

Heating a home in the U.S. with propane has cost far less than heating with electricity according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Propane water heaters can cost one-third less to use and recover water twice as quickly as electric water heaters over time. Also, on average, propane furnaces normally last 5-10 years longer than electric heating pumps.

A propane gas furnace normally heats air to about 130°F – 140°F and runs in short intervals to minimize utility costs. Electric heating units produce heat below body temperature or 98.6°F. This is why the air coming from the heating vent actually feels cool to the human touch if you place your hand in front of it.

Check Home Insulation

When is the last time you have checked the insulation in your home? You know, all that fun fluffy stuff in your walls? Save up to 15% of your annual utility bills by making sure your home is air sealed tight and insulated! A home that isn’t insulated well is essentially heating the neighborhood and their home, as heating and cooling will find ways to escape in the outdoors. Also, cooling or heating units in your home may be working harder to service your home when the air is escaping.

Unplug Unused Devices

Who else leaves countless electrical devices plugged in at all times, but rarely use them? Personally, we are guilty of this one. Most electronic devices constantly draw a small amount of electricity which can add up over time if you take into consideration how many appliances you leave plugged in at all times! To minimize power usage, be sure to unplug cords or power strips you don’t use regularly!

 

Contact Keystone Propane today for more information on how we can help you save money in the new year and beyond! Our team of experts will help you find the perfect cost-saving propane solutions for your home or business. Best wishes for a happy, healthy, and warm new year!

5 Propane Gifts Ideas for the Holidays 

The holidays have come upon us fast this year! If you’re in a pinch in finding the perfect gift for someone you love or even yourself, we have the perfect list for you! Some of the best gifts require propane gas. Keystone Propane is here to help with your gifting and propane needs. We’ve put together a list of our favorites for you to choose from.

Top 5 Propane Gifts for the Holidays

Propane Gas Patio Heater

For those who love the outdoors, but aren’t too crazy about the colder temperatures, patio heaters make a wonderful gift! Perfect for their patio oasis in the colder months. Sit outside and watch the snowfall while keeping warm under a propane gas patio heater. Setting up a few around the patio will keep friends toasty warm this winter.

Propane Gas Fire Pit

Fire pits are growing with popularity year after year. Propane gas fire pits are the perfect way to keep warm in cooler months or just nice to sit around, chat, and toast marshmallows! Ranging in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and accessories, there’s a fire pit perfect for any patio size. A great addition for anyone who loves the outdoors and to entertain.

Propane Gas Grill

What grill master wouldn’t love a brand new gas grill this holiday? Grilling isn’t just for the summer. They’ll be so excited to receive their new propane gas grill that you’ll be having delicious steaks for New Years! Keystone Propane has all the accessories and propane tanks needed to accompany this outstanding gift.

Propane Gas Fireplace

Have you or your loved one been dreaming of adding a fireplace to your home? This is the perfect gift to surprise them with on Christmas morning. Imagine opening gifts next to your brand new propane gas operated fireplace. Easy on and off switch to control flame and temperature and the best part, no mess or cleaning necessary! A gift they will always remember.

Portable Propane Gas Grills

A great gift for the avid camper and adventurer in your life. A portable gas grill is great for camping, tailgating, and more! Keystone Propane has all your propane gas needs covered to pair with this great gift. If you’re looking for a portable smoker rather than a grill, check out The Big Green Egg and its accessories.

Contact us now for more information on how Keystone Propane can help you find the perfect gift to warm someone’s heart (and body) this holiday season and Happy Holidays from your favorite propane suppliers in Northeast PA!

Tips For Frying Your Turkey With Propane Gas

With Thanksgiving just around the corner now you’re likely starting to stress about cooking your family’s turkey. There are various different ways to prepare your bird than with a conventional oven. Looking for an easier (and quicker) way? Try using a turkey fryer with propane gas!

Expecting a lot of guests this year? Be sure to plan ahead and fill your tank(s) with Keystone Propane to avoid any embarrassing mishaps.

 

Prep For Deep Frying Your Thanksgiving Turkey

  • Determine how many turkeys you will need to cook. If you plan on cooking more than one, have 2-3 tanks on hand just to be safe!
  • Use a long-stemmed thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey during the frying process.
  • Stock up on oil. The most common type of oil for frying a turkey is peanut oil, however, you may opt to use canola, rice oil, corn oil or sunflower oil.
  • Keep the burner as far away as possible from your propane tank.
  • Give yourself an ample amount of time to cook your bird. A general guideline is 3 minutes per pound in addition to 5 minutes per bird (ie. 10 lb bird is 30 – 35 mins)

 

How to Fry Your Turkey using Keystone Propane

  • Begin by placing your thawed turkey in the fryer and top off with room temperature water until the bird is completely covered. (this prevents any oil from overflowing)
  • Remove the turkey and mark it with the water line
  • Dry the fryer and turkey entirely
  • Connect your Keystone Propane Tank
  • Fill up to the waterline with your choice of frying oil
  • Heat the oil to between 325 and 350 degrees Fahrenheit to properly cook your bird
  • To prevent burning yourself, slowly lower the bird into the fryer and cook 3 minutes plus 5 minutes per bird. Keep your thermometer on hand to check the internal temperature of the turkey.

Contact Keystone Propane for more information about how we can provide you with propane for your turkey fryer!

How to Clean Up your Fryer

Once your dinner is done, now it’s time to clean up the mess! You’ll want to wait until the oil has completely cooked down – which takes about 2 hours. Then you will be able to drain and pour the oil back into its original container. You may reuse this oil if it’s kept in a cool, dark place for up to three months.

How Propane Buses are Powering Schools

The school bus is one of the most iconic references to education in the United States. Especially in Northeastern Pennsylvania, districts have bus rides starting at 5:30 AM to get kids to school for 8 AM classes. Depending on the size of the district and how many kids use the bus, there could be hundreds of busses per district. With the average bus holding 60 to 100 gallons of fuel, at today’s gas prices one fill-up of petroleum gas could cost hundreds to thousands of dollars. Fortunately, propane buses are being used more and more by school districts trying to stretch their dollars.

Propane Buses Powering Education

School districts of all sizes are taking the leap to switch to propane-powered buses. So far, over 15,000 propane school buses are in operation nationwide in over 800 school districts. Here in the Keystone State, 71 districts already have 1,160 propane-powered buses in operation. Currently, 48 states now have propane-powered school buses in operation. Here are the Top Ten Propane Powered Buses using states:

  1. Texas (3,000)
  2. California (1,905)
  3. Pennsylvania (1,160)
  4. Oregon (1,010)
  5. Wisconsin (895)
  6. Minnesota (718)
  7. Florida (683)
  8. New York (681)
  9. Illinois (649)
  10. Ohio (634)

Why are School Districts Shifting Towards Propane Powered Buses Over Petroleum Buses?

Less Environmental Impact

Propane autogas buses can reduce up to 96 percent nitrous oxide emissions as compared to a traditional diesel bus. Propane is also one of the most clean-burning fuels available. It also releases very little carbon or other harmful pollutants into the air.

More Affordable

Although oil prices fluctuate, propane is consistently less than diesel fuel and gasoline by as much as 50%! However, districts see the biggest savings on their maintenance costs. Propane doesn’t require expensive engine fluids or filters, like diesel buses. Diesel buses also require more oil and need regular diesel particulate filter (DPF) cleanings.

Safety for Students

Propane provides a clean emissions profile compared with diesel and gasoline alternatives, and its exhaust does not emit any of the known carcinogens that can be harmful to children. It also runs more quietly than a diesel bus – allowing drivers to be more alert to what is going on inside the vehicle.

Findings reveal that propane has the lowest cost of ownership and that savings could mean more teachers and more extracurricular activities for students. Switching to propane also means that very limited changes to infrastructure will need to be made. There is no need to modify garages or repair facilities. More school districts across the country are lining up to make the switch because it’s sake, quiet and healthier for students that ride the bus. In conclusion, propane is abundant in the United States. It is a form of fossil fuel and created during the process of refining natural gas, meaning it’s far less environmentally disruptive to acquire compared to gasoline and diesel, This will keep propane (and natural gas) prices low for decades to come, at the least.

This is just one of the many ways propane can power your life. Whether you’re using propane for commercial applications such as poultry heating, or residential applications such as indoor heating, Keystone Propane is here for you. Contact us now for more information about how Keystone Propane can power your life.

6 Tailgating Safety Tips

With football starting up, baseball playoffs on the way, and with hockey and basketball gearing to start up, that means one thing. It’s time to tailgate! We all know about the essentials you need for a great tailgate. Yet, with more and more venues banning charcoal grills, portable propane grills are becoming more necessary now than ever. With great power comes great responsibility. Here are 6 Tailgating Safety Tips you need for a fun and safe tailgate.

6 Tailgating Safety Tips

Before Heading Out

While heading out to see your team is exciting, don’t let your anticipation get in the way of preparing for the tailgate. This means if you’re grilling, make sure your propane tank is full beforehand. Also, make sure it’s safely secured. If your grill is wobbly – it’s not safe for travel. Don’t forget to pack plenty of food, drinks, and seating for everyone. One essential most people don’t consider is a first aid kit, especially if drinking!

On Your Way

You’ll want to take extra precautions when transporting propane. Start by disconnecting the tank then place it in an upright and secure position to prevent any damage or leaks. Avoid placing it in the trunk. We recommend you put it on the floor of the back seat and crack open a window in case there is a leak.

Setting Up the Grill

When it comes to unpacking your propane grill, you’ll want to take extra care as you did when packing your tank. Portable grills such as the Big Green Egg grills are very easy to set up. Make sure you set up your grill station as far away as possible from cars and other potentially flammable areas.

Also, be sure to open the grill before lighting it. During a leak, propane builds up under the grill’s hood and could cause a combustible situation if not released. Much like filling up at the gas tank, be sure not to smoke near the grill to avoid any unintended combustion.

Before Going Into the Stadium

One of the most important tailgating safety tips is to keep the environment clean! Clean up any garbage such as plates, cups, napkins and other garbage that could catch fire. Something that can also help is to allow for the grill to cool down before heading into the stadium, and before leaving the tailgate. You can do this quicker by leaving the grill’s hood in the upright position.

Tailgating Safety Tips During an Emergency

Now, in case of an emergency, you can feel free to dial 911 or consult your stadium’s security services. Their mission is to bring you a fun, festive, and safe game day experience. It’s their job to make sure that you have a great time.

It’s Keystone Propane’s job to provide quality propane, LP Gas, and accessories to both commercial and residential areas. Contact us now for more information on how Keystone Propane can help you see what you’re looking for.