Top 5 Reasons for Adding an Outdoor Fireplace to Your Yard

The fireplace is a symbol of elegance and comfort, and it is often the centerpiece that can tie a room together. Now, more than ever before, we are seeing fireplaces outside the confines of the home. The yard is becoming a popular place to hold a fireplace, and there are many reasons why. In today’s post, we have 5 great reasons why you should add an outdoor fireplace to your yard.

1. Entertainment

A well-placed outdoor fireplace can extend the party space from inside to outside. Imagine having a gathering of friends by the fireplace where you can converse, laugh, eat, and drink. Your friends and family will flock to your events and parties. The possibilities for entertainment are incredible with an outdoor fireplace. Don’t be surprised if your yard becomes ground zero for holiday-related gatherings.

2. Warmth

During the colder months, it can become monotonous to stay indoors. An outdoor fireplace enables you to relax outside while heat emanates from the fire. With a fireplace, your yard can be properly enjoyed year-round. On chilly days and evenings, there is no better feeling than being close to a cozy, warm fireplace.

3. Cooking

With the proper equipment, a fireplace or fire pit can be used for cooking. Install a cooking grate with the fireplace, and you’ll be able to cook a large variety of items. Or, you could opt with the fireplace staple of roasted marshmallows. The ability to cook makes the outdoor fireplace extremely versatile. The fire grate makes it similar to using a grill, although its temperature won’t be as accurate.

4. Increased Property Value

An outdoor fireplace is a stylish, useful addition to any home, and it can easily increase your property value if you sell your home in the future. Potential buyers will love an attention-grabbing fireplace. If you do plan on selling the home in the future, ensure that you keep the fireplace well maintained.

5. Ambiance

A fireplace has an aura of sophistication. It creates a cozy, inviting ambiance. Expect your friends and family to visit more. Expect to spend more of your evenings outside. Expect more lively gatherings as the fireplace acts as a catalyst for conversations. You will marvel at the sheer beauty of the fireplace as its flames roar through the night. An outdoor fireplace will be an excellent addition to your home, and the overall ambiance is a big reason for that.

10 Pro Grilling Tips

Summer is quickly approaching, and it’s time to dust off the grill. To get the most out of your grilling experience, we have a few grilling tips to take your skills from amateur to pro.

Keep It Hot

As a rule, you should preheat your grill for 15-25 minutes before using it. This ensures that the grill reaches the right temperature and that it kills off any remaining bacteria on the grill’s surface. For high heat, the grill should be 400-450°F, 350-400°F for medium heat, and 250-300°F for low heat. By properly preheating the grill, the food should sear on contact, which helps prevent the food from sticking.

Cook from Room Temperature

Instead of cooking food straight from the freezer, it’s better to thaw your meat ahead of time and begin cooking when it’s room temperature. You want to cook your meat evenly, which won’t happen if your meat is frozen when you place it on the grill.

Oil the Grates

Before heating the grill, apply vegetable oil on the grates with a brush or paper towel. Without lubricated grates, meat will be almost guaranteed to stick. Applying oil will make removing meat from the grill an effortless process.

Marinate Your Meat

Those succulent barbecue ribs don’t become delicious on their own. The cook needs to fully marinate the meat for the flavor to fully set in. Find a marinade recipe online, prepare it, and let the meat sit for a few hours. Doing this will help your meat explode with flavor.

Be Fully Prepped

A cook is nothing without his tools, so it’s important to have everything prepared before you start grilling. That includes having your propane tank, tongs, spatula, thermometer, and whatever else you need.

Don’t Overcrowd the Grill

Don’t put too much meat on the grill at one time. You need sufficient airflow for the meat to grill properly, and if the grates are overcrowded meat will take longer to cook, and it may not cook evenly.

Use a Grill Basket

For foods that are small or too cumbersome to place directly on a grill (vegetables, small cuts of meat, etc.), use a grill basket.

Don’t Overcook the Meat

If you had to choose, it’s best to undercook the meat than to overcook it. If it’s undercooked, you can simply put it back on the grill for it to reach the right temperature; if it’s overcooked, the meat may be inedible.

Use a Thermometer

A thermometer will tell you the exact temperature of the meat. While you can cook without it, it can be useful for thick cuts of meat.

Let It Rest

Once the meat is done cooking, let the meat rest before you start eating. This allows the juices to redistribute and settle inside the meat.

Now that you’re ready to knock this grilling season out of the park, contact Keystone Propane for the fuel you need to get the party started!

 

Spring Propane Safety Tips

Spring is here, and more outdoor activities arrive with it. With warmer weather, propane is used more often. It fuels grilling parties, camping trips, and road trips. With these activities, you want to ensure that you’re using propane safely. Here are some simple Spring propane safety tips that demonstrate how you use propane cautiously during the season.

1. Never store propane tanks indoors. Indoor propane appliances can be fine, but it’s unsafe to have the tanks indoors. When storing the tanks keep them outside and in a vertical position.

2. Know how to shut off the gas supply from your tank or cylinder. Ensure that everyone in the household knows how to do it as well.

3. If you’re using propane to grill, turn off the burner control and the release valve when you finish cooking.

4. Ensure that everyone in your household knows the smell of propane, so that they could recognize it in the event of a leak.

5. If you smell a strange gas-like odor, treat it seriously. Check if the release valve is closed tight. If you cannot detect the exact source of the smell, evacuate the home and find professional assistance to help you fix the problem.

6. If an odor persists and you need to evacuate, do not operate electronic switches or appliances. Try to leave as many windows open as you can. Don’t light any matches.

7. When transporting a tank for a refill, keep it in an upright position in your car and away from direct sunlight. Before you place the tank in your car, ensure that the valve is closed tight. Secure the tank with a rope to prevent it from moving freely inside the vehicle. Keep the windows open as an extra safety measure.

8. When transporting a tank, remember to never leave the tank in the car unattended because the temperature can quickly rise.

9. Acquire a gas detector to detect carbon monoxide and propane leaks. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that is a result of incomplete combustion of some other fuel or gas.

10. Keep flammable items (e.g. paper, clothing, etc.) away from your propane appliances at all times. This is very simple, but a surprising number of fires occur by neglecting this easy safety measure.

Follow these tips to stay prepared and safe during the spring and summer seasons. Remember that propane usage is not dangerous if you follow simple guidelines to ensure your safety.

5 Reason to Convert Your Home to Propane

Heating is a central function responsible for keeping your home comfortable and efficient, which is why it’s so important to choose the best fit for your family. If your heat currently runs on oil or electric, it may be time to consider upgrading to a clean energy fuel like propane. The popularity of propane is growing quickly, and for many reasons. Want to know why propane gas is the first choice for savvy homeowners everywhere? Here are five reasons to convert your home to propane:

Efficiency

Efficiency is at the top of the list, and propane definitely delivers. Compared to other fuel sources, propane offers a level of value and comfort that sets it apart from other heating options. Efficiency is one of the key differentiators that makes propane such an attractive option, allowing you to save hundreds of dollars a year because it burns so cleanly.

Flexibility

Propane does it all and is powerful enough to meet your home’s wide variety of needs. It’s used for home heating, home appliances, space heating, generators, and much more. Not only does it allow you to simplify your life by using propane appliances that lost longer and require less maintenance, it offers flexibility you just can’t get with other fuels.

Safety

When handled properly, propane is one of the safest options for heating and running your home. It’s also extremely handy in an emergency if you happen to be in need of a backup generator.

Reliability

Speaking of emergencies, propane wins hands down over electric heating. When you use propane there’s no need to worry about power outages caused by fallen branches or ice storms interfering with your power lines. Propane is already ready, every day, no matter what type of weather you’re facing.

Green

One of the most popular characteristics of propane is that it’s nontoxic, posing no threat to your groundwater or soil. As an option that burns a lot cleaner than other fuels, propane helps you to shrink your home’s carbon footprint while you do your part to keep your community green.

Your Propane Expert

Keystone Propane is your expert propane provider, here to give you the guidance you need when you need it most. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff is ready to discuss your home heating system options and answer any questions you may have about converting to propane any time of year!

 

5 Benefits of Automatic Propane Delivery

If you’re calling in every time you need a propane delivery, you’re missing out on the convenience and ease of Keystone Propane’s automatic delivery program! Here are a few reasons to consider signing up for automatic propane delivery today.

Automatic Propane Delivery Benefits

Confidence

Once you’re signed up for automatic delivery, your days of waiting are over. Although we always offer exceptionally prompt service, automatic delivery allows you to trust our professional staff to ensure you always have gas when you need it. No phone call needed.

No Gauge Checking

Keystone Propane monitors your tank gauge so you don’t have to! No more trudging through the snow to check your tank, and no more wondering whether or not it’s time for a refill.

No More Scheduling

Now that you no longer need to worry about keeping track of refills, there’s no need to call for your order. Simplify your life with one less chore!

Never Run Out

Running out of gas is one of the worst things that can happen during the winter. A huge advantage of signing up for automatic delivery is that you’ll never run out of gas because you didn’t order in time.

In addition to convenient automatic delivery, Keystone Propane offers a wide variety of services that make us the leader in the propane industry, including:

  • 24 hr emergency service
  • maintenance of our tanks and equipment
  • service to your LP gas appliances
  • Guaranteed personalized and professional service

With a full fleet of propane delivery and service vehicles and our dedication to customer service, it’s clear to see why you can trust Keystone Propane to handle your automatic propane delivery. And we’re not just delivering propane … we’re delivering peace of mind.

Propane Tips for your Home this Holiday

With the holidays finally upon us, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of last-minute shopping, gift-giving, and visiting family and friends. And as you spend this time celebrating with those closest to you, we at Keystone Propane want you to know that we consider the safety of the utmost importance. To help ensure your holiday season is a happy one, we’d like to offer a few helpful propane tips for your home.

Propane Awareness

If you’re starting to run low, it’s best not to take any chances … especially during the holiday season. Check your propane levels today and get your order in early so you don’t need to think about it while you’re trying to enjoy this special time.

Christmas Tree Placement

Whether your tree is real or fake, make sure to leave plenty of room between your evergreen and your indoor heating sources, especially radiators and fireplaces.

Candle Safety

Nothing adds ambiance like the warm glow of candles. While you cozy up on these cold evenings, make sure your lit candles are far enough away from your home decor, little hands, and furry friends. And, most importantly, don’t forget to put them out before bed.

Be Prepared

If you do need to place a propane order, clear any debris around your propane tanks outside to ensure safe and timely delivery of propane to your home.

Cooking Safety

Turn all pot handles toward the back of the propane stove when doing your holiday cooking so they can’t be reached by the kids.

Christmas Light Safety

Keep an eye out for any light sets that have frayed wires, excessive kinking, or bare spots. All of these are warning signs that it’s time for them to go.

We at Keystone Propane send you our warmest wishes for a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season!

5 Tips for Perfectly Grilled Thanksgiving Turkey

If you’re tired of traditional roasted turkey (and not quite brave enough to attempt deep-fried turkey), grilling is an excellent option. Here are a few tips for a perfectly grilled Thanksgiving turkey that will have everyone coming back for seconds and thirds.

Tip One – Proper Thawing

Make sure that your turkey is fully thawed and seasoned to taste. Grilling will add a new and complex flavor profile to compliment your seasonings of choice.

Tip Two – Size It Right

Make sure you select a turkey that will fit your grill, allowing you to close the lid entirely. Do not settle for balancing the lid on the turkey and leaving the grill cracked open.

Before you consider sizing, you’ll need to decide whether you plan to put the turkey directly on the grill with a drip pan or place it inside a roasting pan. In either case, make sure your grill is large enough to accommodate your bird.

Tip Three – Use a Full Propane Tank

Make sure you fill your propane tank so you can be certain you have enough fuel to cook your feast. About fifteen minutes before cook time, preheat your grill with the burners on high. Turn off the center burner and when the temperature reaches 325°F to 350°F, you’re ready to go.

Tip Four – Keep the Lid Closed

Once you place your turkey in the grill, you should set your timer and keep the lid closed. In this respect, grilling isn’t that much different than cooking in a conventional oven. So remember, no peeking!

Tip Five – Check the Temperature

The best way to know if your turkey is done is to check the temperature. Ideally, the thighs should be between 170°F to 175°F and the breast about 165°F. The required cooking time should be approximately the same as cooking in the oven, so you can use the original cooking time according to your recipe, adjusting for weight as you normally would.

And that’s all there is to it! We hope you enjoy your grilled turkey and the special time you have with your family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving!

5 Best Home Heating Tips for Fall

Now that it finally feels like Fall, cooler temperatures may be tempting you to turn on the heat if you haven’t done so already. Here are a few useful home heating tips for fall to help keep your energy bills reasonable by preventing waste.

Seal Up Drafts

If you walk past a window and feel a sudden burst of cold air, it’s likely a place you’re losing energy. But it’s important to recognize that this is a perfect opportunity to conserve. Doors and windows are common culprits of energy loss and a great place to start your conservation efforts.

Stop your heating system from working harder by purchasing some inexpensive caulking or weatherstripping. These are easy, affordable ways to help keep the cold air out and the warm air in. By properly sealing your doors and windows, you can quickly save up to 15% on your home’s energy bill!

Air Filter Clean Up

A dirty air filter can also make your heating system work double-time, increasing your energy costs and putting unnecessary wear and tear on your unit. By changing your air filter on a monthly basis, you can drastically decrease the amount of wasted energy.

Another major benefit of cleaning your air filter is improving the air quality in your home, especially if you have family members with asthma or allergies. Removing pollen, dust, and other contaminants efficiently is key to helping your loved ones keep their system at bay and maintaining overall health.

Thermostat Adjustments

You don’t need a programmable thermostat to take advantage of this method, although it does help to have one! As long as you remember to lower the temperature at night or any other time your family is away from the house, you can enjoy savings.

Thermostat Locations

It’s also important to take your thermostat’s location into consideration. Remember to keep it away from hot or cold areas, including sunlit walls and drafty windows, as this can have a negative impact on your heating system’s performance.

Time for a Tune-Up

Having a professional give your heating unit a check-up is a great way to make sure you’re starting off the season on the right foot. It can save you money in the long run and also help keep your heating system running efficiently into the future.

If you have any questions on home heating tips for Fall or would like to talk with us about how we can help keep your heating system in good working order, contact us today!

How to Prep Your Propane Home for Fall

Now that fall is here, it’s time to think about what you can do to get your home and propane appliances ready for colder weather. There’s often more to it than simply refilling your propane tank, and Keystone Propane is here to give you some great tips on how to prep your propane home for fall. Below are just a few suggestions to get your home and appliances winter-ready.

Propane Tank Refills

If your propane tank is at 20% or less, it’s definitely time to call for a refill. Waiting for late October to fill your tank can leave you unprepared in the event we have an early cold snap as we often do here in Northeastern PA. Check your gauge and give us a call today so you and your family are ready for whatever comes your way.

Furnace Maintenance

Don’t assume your furnace is in good working order. Give your heating system a good once over to make sure everything will run properly when you need it to.

Gas Stove Review

Did you know that the color of your propane gas stove’s flame can indicate whether or not it may need to be serviced? It’s true! The color you want is blue, and if your flame is yellow (or any other color) it’s a sign that the burners may need to be adjusted or that your air inlets are clogged.

Water Heater Tank Maintenance

Sediments can easily build up inside your water heater tank and cause all sorts of problems. One of the best ways to avoid this is by draining your tank regularly. After releasing just a few gallons, the water should run clear as a sign that your tank is sediment-free.

Propane Grill Storage

It’s important to protect your grill during the winter months, but don’t forget to make sure you clean it before putting it away for this season. Burn off any remaining residue, wash it with soapy warm water and you’re good to go.

If you have any questions about how to prep your propane home for fall, feel free to give us a call today. Keystone Propane is here to help!

7 Safety Tips for Grilling with Propane

Labor Day is right around the corner, and for many of you, this may be the last chance you have to throw that wild outdoor bash you deserve. Keystone Propane is here to help you do it safely so you can enjoy every second of your Labor Day holiday. Here are a few useful safety tips for grilling with propane to get your party started right.

Propane Grill Clean Up

Some people leave behind all the leftover crusties on their grates because they feel it results in more flavorful cooking. However, it’s extremely important to note that about one in every five grill fires is caused by leftover grease. The risk just isn’t worth it. Make sure you take the time to clean your propane grill thoroughly.

Going the Distance

With the recent upswing in outdoor living spaces, it seems like comfy furniture is making more of an appearance outside while grills seem to be getting closer and closer to your home’s inside. Be smart and make sure you always position your grill at least five feet or more from your house, outdoor furniture, trees, or anything else.

Safety Checks

Whether you’re an avid griller or someone who only fires it up on major holidays, it’s a good idea to check your hoses for damage caused by regular wear and tear. If you find a split or crack, replace your hose immediately.

Proper Utensils

Don’t try to get away with using a short-handled spatula on the grill. Avoid burns by using long-handled utensils only.

Propane Storage

We highly recommend that you store your grill’s propane tank outdoors only. Keep it covered whenever possible and stored in an upright position.

Emergency Readiness

You should always have a fire extinguisher handy, whether you’re grilling or not. Make sure you test your extinguisher regularly so you know you can count on it if the need should arise.

Closing Time

When you’re done cooking, always turn off both the cylinder valve and the burner control so you’re certain your grill is completely off.

And remember … Labor Day doesn’t necessarily mean grilling season is over!