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.

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.

4 Ways Propane Powers Outdoor Living

Parties in the kitchen are a thing of the past. Recent trends show that they are now moving out to your patio incorporating outdoor living features powered by propane. The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), says that fire pits and fireplaces were the most desired outdoor living structure. They estimate that 83% of consumers noted they have three or more outdoor accessories to compliment their grilling pastime. Grilling is integral to the American lifestyle. Fortunately, professional designers and builders can evaluate your outdoor space and create the perfect living area for your friends and family to spend their time in.

How Propane Helps Liven Your Outdoor Living Space

Developing Seamless Transitions

Ideally, people are looking for design consistency in their homes. Simply put – you would not want a contemporary indoor living space with tropical-style outdoor living. The outdoor space should reflect the style and decor of the inside of your home. Fireplaces and fire pits come in a wide variety of styles and designs to homeowners that can easily match the decor of the inside of their home.

Considering the Entire Space

Outdoor living areas come in all sorts of sizes, layouts, and shapes. Consider the entire area you have to work with. The best way to do this is by working with a designer. A deck or patio can be divided into separate areas to fit your lifestyle needs. This can easily be achieved by having one area with a propane-powered outdoor kitchen and dining space divided by a lounge area with a propane fireplace or fire pit. With an outdoor fire pit, you can even keep your guests warm and cozy on the chilliest of fall nights.

Selecting Personal Touches

Although kitchens, fireplaces, and pools are among the most popular applications for propane in the backyard – your options don’t end there! Some homeowners prefer more unique applications like fire columns and waterfalls. They complement the space as a beautiful centerpiece to admire.

Make Use of Consultations

Considering building out your own unique outdoor living space? Speak with a local landscape architect and contractor to see what options you have! Propane technicians have expertise in local building codes and products on the market so they can best identify where to place a grill, pool heater, fireplace, or any other propane products you would like to incorporate. Speaking with an expert will ensure that your outdoor living area will work both aesthetically and safely with the design.

Keystone Propane guarantees our propane professionals can guide you to the best products for your perfect outdoor living space. Contact us to learn more about what options you have for creating your living area that your family and friends will enjoy for years to come.

Best Uses for Propane in the Summer

Propane can do far more than simply keep you warm during the winter months. Propane can be used to fuel your summer fun. In today’s post, we’re going to discuss a few ways you can use propane to help with the summer’s festivities.

Grilling

There’s nothing quite like a summer barbeque. A gathering of friends and family can be great, and the food can be delicious, making for a perfect summer activity. We recommend using a propane grill for a few reasons:

  • Ease of use: Charcoal grills can take a bit of practice to use properly. A propane grill ignites with the turn of the knob, which makes it very easy to use.
  • Temperature control: Charcoal grills tend to be very unpredictable, while propane grills will distribute constant and even heat throughout the grill.
  • Cleanliness: Propane grills are very easy to clean and maintain, while charcoal grills can be extremely messy.

Pool Heating

The summer months are hot, but that doesn’t mean that your pool can’t get a bit chilly at night. Use propane as a power source for your pool heater. This is a terrific way to save money on electricity, and it can ensure that your pool is comfortable throughout the summer months.

Patio Lighting

There’s something charming about lounging on the patio during summer nights and using a propane-powered fire torch can help add to the charm. Outdoor fire torches are safe, aesthetically pleasing, and help to create a certain ambiance. Visitors will be impressed, and if you have festivities at your home, you can continue the party outside.

Fire Pit

Backyard fire pits are more popular than ever, and there’s a good reason why. You no longer need chopped wood to start a fire. You can simply flick a switch and enjoy the ambiance. A fire pit can be the centerpiece for outdoor gatherings, cookouts, and campfires. Want to toast some marshmallows and trade spooky stories over a campfire? Propane makes it incredibly easy to fuel your backyard fire pit.

Backup Power

If the power goes out during the summer months, it’s good to know that you have backup power. Propane can be an excellent source of power for your generator. In some regions, summer storms can be rough, and having a backup generator is an absolute must. Propane has some benefits over the traditional gasoline-powered generators:

  • Propane fuel is often available even when gas pumps aren’t running. This is because it’s stored in individual gas cylinders. You can store multiple cylinders in your home for preparation.
  • Propane has a limitless shelf life. Over an extended period of time, gasoline can start to degrade.

Propane is extremely versatile, and it can help you make the most of the summer season. Contact us today for some more ideas on how you use propane during the summer months!

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.

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!

 

How to Camp with Propane

Northeastern Pennsylvania is known for its beautiful outdoor recreation, which is why camping is such a popular pastime. Families from all over the tri-state area flock to NEPA every summer to enjoy everything our wilderness has to offer. If pitching a tent and becoming one with nature or enjoying the great outdoors in your RV is right up your alley, we have a few tips on how to camp with propane to boost your family’s fun.

Cooking with Propane

Propane is a great choice for camping for a variety of reasons, including its long shelf-life and portability. By utilizing propane, you have more control over cooking a hot meal. A propane camp stove or grill lights quickly are easy to use, and affordable. Best of all, it doesn’t leave behind dirty charcoal ash so it’s a snap to clean up.

Firing Up the Fire Pit

Nothing says camping like a good campfire. But instead of struggling with getting the wood started and keeping the logs lit, why don’t you get yourself a portable fire pit? It’s perfect for a weekend in the woods where your family can create new memories.

Taking a Warm Shower

There’s nothing like a nice warm shower, and you can still enjoy this luxury with the help of a propane hot water camp shower. This portable device has a pump that attaches to your available water source and is available in many sizes to meet your exact needs.

RV Camping

If you’re really not into roughing it, an RV that relies on propane is the perfect home away from home. Whether you have a trailer, folding camper, or full-out motor home, propane can let you enjoy amenities like hot water, heat, refrigerators, and stoves,

There’s no doubt that propane allows you to enjoy the time you spend outdoors without needing to sacrifice all the creature comforts. And in addition to its convenience, it’s easy to appreciate the eco-friendly benefits propane has to offer.

You should always fill your propane tanks before you head out into the wild, and Keystone Propane is here to help you get ready for your next big camping trip!

Living “Off the Grid” with Propane Gas

There are many benefits of using propane for your home heating. It’s safe, reliable, and very efficient, but the perks don’t end there. Did you know that propane is also a great alternative to relying on electricity for home heating and appliances? Not only is this energy source efficient … it’s also a standalone energy system you can use for a wide variety of purposes, including heat, cooking, appliances, hot water, and much more.

Many people use propane to augment their other energy sources, helping them to live even further “off the grid” than ever before. Reducing your reliance on electricity without the help of propane gas can be quite difficult, especially if you want to maintain the comfortable lifestyle you love. Choosing what fuel sources you use to power your home can have a direct effect on how you live your daily life.

Many homeowners who rely solely on electricity to power their homes are now considering switching to multiple energy sources, depending on their needs. Commonly referred to as energy or power diversification, and it provides you with one of the biggest benefits of all … a backup energy source that can power your home in the event you experience an outage or failure.

Propane has been playing a part in both power diversification and “off the grid” living for several great reasons:

  • it’s one of the cleanest fuels available
  • it’s safe for the environment
  • it’s affordable
  • it’s reliable in an emergency
  • it’s extremely versatile
  • it’s readily available

Best of all, propane gas gives you the power of choice. No longer tied to electricity, you can decide to diversify your energy sources by choosing propane and enjoy all of the “off the grid” benefits it has to offer.

Looking for more information on why propane is a great choice for your home heating? Feel free to contact one of our qualified representatives today!

Five Benefits of Indoor Fireplaces

As one of the most sought after amenities, indoor fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. There are so many styles to choose from with an endless number of benefits. Here are some of the biggest reasons why indoor fireplaces have become such a huge hit.

Everyone Loves Fire

There’s nothing cozier than the warm glow of an indoor fireplace. It creates the perfect gathering spot for family and friends while providing a beautiful and relaxing ambiance. An indoor fireplace invites you to pull up a chair and get comfortable with a good book while you make lasting memories with the people you care about.

Green Heat

We already know that propane heat is one of the cleanest energy sources available today, and indoor fireplaces running on propane gas are no exception. Not only are they eco-friendly, but they’re also easy and safe to use.

Indoor Roasting

Want to enjoy some gooey marshmallows in the winter without building an outdoor fire and shivering under a blanket? With an indoor fireplace, you can have a smore anytime and maybe even roast a hot dog or two!

Light Without Electricity

When inclement weather strikes and the power goes out, we immediately head for our stockpile of half-burned candles. But with an indoor fireplace, light and some extra warmth are readily available despite any inconvenient power outages.

Independent Energy

With an indoor fireplace, you control when and how long you want your fuel to burn. You can enjoy the freedom of energy independence while having the power to light a welcoming fire in the privacy of your own home.

Would you like to find out more information about our indoor fireplaces? If so, stop by our Throop or Greentown showrooms to see what we have in store!

Benefits of Propane for Reducing Emissions

The global pursuit for a cleaner environment includes over 180 nations that have submitted proposals on how to reduce emissions according to a recent report from the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA). In the U.S. we’ve been working diligently to accomplish the latest target emission rate set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the states are coming up with some very creative solutions, many of which involve the use of propane.

The NPGA states that propane gas water heaters, which are found in many U.S. homes and businesses, are one of many tools that can help the states to achieve the EPA standards. Many homeowners across the U.S. don’t realize the tremendous benefits of propane and how it can greatly contribute to reducing dangerous carbon dioxide emissions.

For example, a propane water heater will actually create 65% fewer emissions than a traditional water heater, as well as cut costs in half. Most of the energy used by an electric water heater isn’t actually used to heat the water, but instead, it is simply lost due to the unit’s inefficiency. By making the switch to a propane water heater, you can help save the environment while saving money at the same time.

In addition to propane gas water heaters, propane furnaces and back up generators make a huge impact in emission reduction. There are a wide variety of propane-powered appliances suitable for homes and businesses, as well as agricultural and manufacturing industries. With such a wide selection of propane-based solutions, making a real impact on reducing carbon dioxide emissions is easier and more affordable than ever.

Citizens and representatives are working together for state reform and to encourage both individuals and companies to adopt the usage of propane in the home and workplace. To make this future a reality, we need to use a wide variety of approaches and technologies, while striving to incorporate reliable policies into our EPA compliance plans that focus on the benefits of propane usage.