Propane Pre-Buy 2023-2024
Why should you pre-buy your propane? If there is one benefit, it’s this: you lock in a fixed price the winter season. By locking in your price for the winter season, you will
4 Reasons To Choose Propane-Powered Temporary Heating
If you need temporary heating for your construction site, propane heaters are the best solution. We’ve broken down four reasons propane-powered temp heat is better than the rest.
Free Tank Monitoring
At Keystone Propane, we strive to make our customers’ experience as worry-free as possible. One way we do this is by our app and online customer portal. This allows our customers to view their account information, pay their bill, schedule deliveries, schedule service, and much more.
How to Reduce Propane Gas Consumption During the Winter
During the winter, propane gas is one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to keep your home warm. However, it can also be expensive. On average, households consume between 400 and 1,000 gallons of propane annually. Fortunately, you can take some simple steps to reduce propane usage during the winter and save money on your bill. Read on for five propane heat cost savings tips during the winter.
How to Save Energy in PA
Paying energy bills gets expensive, even in Pennsylvania. Here are some quick and simple tips to help you save money on energy bills.
Take Care Of Your Machinery
Make sure that all of your energy-consuming machinery, especially your A/C unit, is tuned up. When you tune up your machines they run cleaner and more efficiently.
Tuning up your A/C unit every year can save you a lot of power usage bills.
If you need to get your A/C unit tuned up in Northeastern PA, contact Keystone Propane.
Wash And Dry Your Clothes Efficiently
Always try to get the most out of your power-guzzling machines when you use them. Try to wash and dry full loads of laundry. Running small loads all the time starts to add up in power spend.
Unplug Your Devices
Phantom power is a real thing. Plugged-in idle devices are slowly but surely sucking up energy. Unplug all unused, idle devices. You can also use a power cord and turn it off when idle items are not in use.
Raise Your Thermostat
Creating cold air in the summer costs more power. Try to increase the temperature of your home when no one is around.
Upgrade Technology
Due to technological advancement, household machines have improved overall energy usage and efficiency. Consider upgrading if you have an old clunker A/C unit, washer, oven, etc.
Use Low Energy Cooking Methods
Using an oven to cook your meals requires a lot of power. Additionally, it increases the temperature in your house, which you don’t want in the summer. Go outside and use that grill instead.
Taking care of your power-using machines, unplugging them, and remaining energy conscious will help you save on energy utility bills in PA.
Don’t tinker or mess with machinery that you have not yet learned the mechanics. Call a professional, contact Keystone Propane.
Tips to Lower Your Home’s Utility Costs in 2022
Now that we’re entering a new year, some of us are probably thinking about how to make home life more comfortable, efficient and less costly – especially as some of us continue to work remotely. You may have seen your utility bills start to increase in price over the last year, between preparing more meals at home and using more water. On top of that, computers, lights, and tv’s are getting more daily use than normal. There are several ways you can cut back on expenses in 2022 though, while continuing to work remotely or just spending more time around the house in general. Here are five tips from Keystone Propane:
- When electronic items such as phones, tablets, or laptops are fully charged, unplug them from the wall. Chargers typically continue to use energy even when they aren’t connected or charging any devices.
- Making more home cooked meals? Propane-fuelled stovetops and ovens provide complete heat control, making cooking faster and more precise. Because of faster heat-up times, a gas stove can save an average of 10% – 30%, over an electric stove. Propane gas stoves will make it possible to continue cooking in the event of an emergency power outing.
- Put your devices to sleep! If you don’t want to completely power down your laptop or device, using your computer’s sleep mode or power management features can ultimately save you up to $50 a year.
- Whether it feels like it or not, your water consumption is increasing while working from home. Plus with added precautions being taken in washing hands more often, the hot water is running more often. Did you know a propane water heater lasts about 10 years longer than electric water heating pumps? Propane water heaters can save you a significant amount of money on your monthly bills. You won’t have to worry about maintaining or replacing your tank for several years.
- Make sure windows and doors are closed when running your heating or cooling system. Don’t waste your valuable energy (or money) by literally throwing it away! If the weather is nice outside and the temperature feels good, turn off your heating or cooling system for the day.
Regardless of your reason for spending more time at home this new year, switching to propane in your home saves you money! Propane is also eco-friendly and non-toxic. Since propane is a light and simple hydrocarbon, it is easily one of the cleanest burning fossil fuels. This means it doesn’t harm soil, water, or endanger the environment. If you have questions about switching to propane or are ready to make the switch, contact Keystone Propane today!
When is the Best Time of the Year to Purchase Propane for Your Home?
We all like to save a few dollars here or there, right? From grocery store coupons to holiday sales and even discounts for your auto insurance, it’s all something we can agree on — saving money is a good thing.
So if you could save a few dollars on your propane bill, you would definitely jump at the chance, right?
Well, there is a way, if you know when is the best time to buy propane for your home. And Keystone Propane is here to share that knowledge with you.
Early Fall is the Perfect Time to Buy Propane
Unfortunately, when it comes to buying propane, many don’t think about it until the temperatures begin to turn colder. And that’s a mistake. As you can imagine, the winter months are usually the time when prices are higher than they are right now. In fact, prices are always fluctuating, even in the summer months where people are buying propane for grilling or camping. And the higher the demand, the higher the prices go.
But early fall is the perfect time to buy propane. The temperature during this time of year is pretty stable so you know the likelihood of a sudden cold snap won’t happen as it does in the wintertime. And without that demand, the cost of propane should be quite low.
Also, by scheduling your delivery in the early fall, you know that you’re ready for when the cold weather does hit. While your neighbors are scrambling to set up propane deliveries, you and your loved one will be enjoying the warmth of your gas fireplace without worrying about your propane running out.
Summer Months are Also a Great Time to Schedule a Delivery
But early fall is not the only time you should be thinking about buying propane. Summertime is also a great time to schedule your next propane delivery. Not only is the demand for propane still somewhat low compared to the winter and early spring months, but you may also be using more propane now than you thought.
As we’ve mentioned before, if you’re a fan of outdoor living, then chances are you’re using your propane to heat your pool, keep your patio warm, start a fire, or even grill up some dogs. So make sure you don’t run on empty before the cold weather settles in!
Still Worried About Prices? Try Our Pre-Buy Program!
From August 1 through September 30, Keystone Propane offers a propane pre-buy program that allows you to purchase a minimum of 500 gallons of propane to use from October 1 through May. This allows you to lock in the current price to pay for these gallons. It’s a great way to save money, so make sure you sign up through the Customer Portal or our mobile app.
We also have a budget program available. With the program, we review three years of your propane delivery history. Using that information, we create a budget-friendly plan. A letter will be sent to you with a determination on your monthly budget payments for the year. The budget program starts each June and runs until the following May.
If you want to learn more about our programs or are interested in scheduling a propane delivery, now is the time to pick up the phone and give us a call at (800) 598-5047. And don’t forget, you can always schedule your next propane delivery from our easy-to-use mobile app or our online Customer Portal.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
- 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!
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!
7 DIY Home Insulation Ideas
As the winter season approaches, it’s time to protect your home from the harsh, cold elements. Insulating the home is something many homeowners struggle with, but it doesn’t need to be difficult. Follow these simple DIY ideas to keep your home insulated during the winter season.
1. Inspect the Home
Many homes (especially older ones) have spots where air leaks. Open spaces are prone to allow unwanted air to enter the home. Find some time to walk throughout the home and look for drafty areas. Common drafty areas can include the attic, basement, and crawlspace.
2. Maintain Your HVAC System
The health of your HVAC system is essential for keeping warm air from escaping the home. Check your air filters and clean them regularly. This will help to control the air flow in the home, and it will improve the air quality.
3. Seal Drafty Doorways
Place foam weather-stripping on the bottom and sides of your doors. If the gap underneath the door is especially large, put a double draft stopper to close the gap. You can buy these double draft stoppers from a hardware store near you, or you can create a homemade stopper using fabric, kitty litter, or even a pair of old jeans that you no longer wear.
4. Seal Drafty Windows
Add an extra layer of insulation to your windows with the help of plastic sheeting. This is a cheap DIY option that can stop outside air in its tracks. You only need plastic sheeting, double-sided tape, and a hairdryer. Apply the sheeting to the window sill with the tape, and apply hot air using the hairdryer. This is an easy way to ensure that your windows are insulated.
5. Seal Vents and Ducts
A great deal of air is lost through the vent and duct system due to poorly sealed openings and connections. Your duct system is often overlooked, and it can be hard to spot the leaks. To seal your ductwork, purchase some HVAC tape from a hardware store. HVAC tape is strong and doesn’t dry out (unlike duct tape). Apply the tape to any leaky opening on your ductwork.
6. Install Thick Curtains
If you have drafty windows, a set of thick curtains can really help to keep warm air in and cold air out. While they don’t serve a purpose in the summer months, thick curtains can make a difference in the winter seasons.
7. Swap Out the Screen Door
In the winter, we tend to forget about the screen door, as we have the main door to shield the home from the outside air. But even with the main door, outside air can still sneak inside the home. To stop this from happening, swap out that screen door for a solid pane of glass. This is an incredibly simple way to keep your home insulated during the winter months.
For more helpful tips on home insulation or to order your propane delivery, contact Keystone Propane today!
