Benefits of Propane Hot Water Heaters

March 12, 2014

When it comes to making your home more energy-efficient, it’s a good idea to look at the appliances that you use the most. One of those appliances that consume a lot of energy on a regular, year-round basis is the hot water heater. Before you look into hot water heater replacement, it’s a good idea to look into some alternative options for updating your equipment. Many homeowners will quickly realize that they can achieve energy savings simply by switching from electric to propane water heaters.

Propane vs. Electric

Contents

1 Propane vs. Electric

Some of the advantages that homeowners can enjoy in making the switch from electric to propane water heaters include lower operating costs and higher efficiencies. The more efficient your water heater is at producing hot water, the less energy that will be required to heat water on a daily basis. Propane water heaters also have a much faster recovery rate and require much smaller storage than electric models, providing homeowners with a continuous hot water supply.

Because propane water heaters are powered by propane gas, the temperature can be adjusted more accurately than with an electric heating mechanism. Homeowners will also find that there is a much wider selection of sizes, installation and venting options available with propane water heaters. Plus, with convenient propane fuel delivery service through Columbus Energies, a reliable, family-owned and operated company that provides New Bedford propane delivery, there’s nothing extra that homeowners will need to do in order to take advantage of all these benefits.

Cost-Effective Hot Water Heater Replacement

When you make the switch from electric to propane water heaters, you can save a lot of money on monthly utility costs. In fact, studies show that it can cost $25 less each month to operate a propane-powered hot water heater compared to an electric unit. Propane water heaters also cost about a third less to operate compared to electric water heaters. Over the average 10-year life span of propane water heaters, the average homeowner could save anywhere between $3,000-4,000 compared to the cost to run an electric water heater.

The fast recovery rate of propane water heaters is also beneficial. Coming in at twice the rate for electric units, it is possible for homeowners to get more hot water from a smaller sized propane tank than they would get from a larger electric tank. Propane gas heaters also have the ability to heat over two-times the amount of water in an hour compared to an electric heater. This is the number one reason why over three million homeowners in the United States currently use propane water heaters.

Propane water heaters also require less maintenance and service than electric models. They are extremely durable and very efficient, with an energy factor of around 0.50-0.65. Smaller units will have a higher energy factor because the small volume and surface area allows for less standby loss, which enables them to recover even faster than large storage models. Overall, the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of propane water heaters make them very attractive to most homeowners nationwide.

Hot Water Heater Replacement and Installation

If you are thinking about upgrading your inefficient electric hot water heater to explore the latest line of propane water heaters, look no further than Columbus Energies. Not only do we provide local New Bedford propane delivery and a wide variety of maintenance and propane fuel delivery service programs, but we also sell and install propane appliances. We have a lot of experience working with propane appliance installation and we sell high-efficiency appliances from the top manufacturers.

Our team of sales staff and technicians can help you choose from the best propane water heaters for your particular needs. Our team is certified in professional propane installation, as well as the repair of propane appliances. In addition to propane water heaters, Columbus Energies can also sell and install ovens, stoves, gas dryers and other efficient propane appliances. To find out more about all of the appliances that we carry, contact our local office or speak with your propane fuel delivery service technician.

Where to Get New Bedford Propane Delivery

Contact Columbus Energies to learn more about our automated propane fuel delivery service and preventative maintenance program. Columbus offers a wide range of propane services, including 24-hour emergency service for propane heating systems, installation of outdoor and indoor propane equipment, including pool heaters, barbecues, enclosed patio heaters, fireplace inserts, room heaters, and complete heating systems.

We also sell propane water heaters and install them as well. Piping and plumbing services can also be provided on an as-needed basis to ensure that our customers get everything installed and working properly. Call Columbus Energies today for more information on our New Bedford propane delivery and other residential and commercial energy delivery services.

HVAC expert checking home central AC unit

Seven HVAC Tips For A Smooth Transition From Winter To Spring

April 15, 2024

$HVAC units play a pivotal role in ensuring the comfort and safety of modern building environments. Yet, these indispensable systems are not immune to the challenges of power surges. Such surges, frequently resulting from events like lightning strikes, power outages, or fluctuations in the electrical grid, can unleash a rapid influx of electrical current. This sudden surge can inflict severe damage on vital components of the HVAC system, including the compressor, fan motor, and control board. The repercussions of such damage can range from expensive repairs to the necessity of replacing the entire HVAC unit. Given these risks, implementing surge protectors and adhering to electrical safety best practices to safeguard HVAC systems effectively is paramount. Is Your HVAC System Secured Against Power Surges? Pondering over protecting your HVAC system against power surges often indicates a need for proactive measures. Seek the expertise of a seasoned HVAC technician who is ready to evaluate and enhance your system's resilience against power surges. Their guidance and recommendations will ensure that your HVAC system is well-prepared to withstand the challenges posed by unexpected power surges and outages. Understanding Power Surges: What Are They? A power surge represents an abrupt spike in electrical voltage, surpassing the standard levels within a power supply system. These surges can manifest for various reasons, including sudden disruptions in the electrical current flow. Common triggers for these surges include events like lightning strikes, power outages, or the switching on and off of large electrical appliances, including air conditioners, refrigerators, and elevators. Power surges, often lasting merely a fraction of a second, can nonetheless wreak significant havoc on electrical devices and appliances. The surge's excessive electrical energy overburdens and damages the sensitive electronic components within these devices, potentially leading to malfunctions or total failures. Differentiating Power Surge, Power Outage, and Brownout While power surges, power outages, and brownouts all stem from electrical power supply disturbances, they each describe distinct phenomena: Power Surge: This is a brief, intense increase in electrical voltage, due to lightning strikes, outages, or high-powered equipment. A power surge can potentially damage electronic devices and appliances hence surge protectors are essential to safeguard them from potential damage. Power Outage: This event happens when there's an interruption in the electrical power supply to a location, leading to a total loss of power. Numerous factors, such as severe weather conditions and electrical equipment failure, can trigger power outages or even planned maintenance activities. Brownout: Characterized by a reduction in voltage within the electrical power supply, a brownout manifests as dimming or flickering lights and reduced power to appliances. Causes range from high demand on the power grid to equipment malfunctions or issues within the electrical system of a specific building or area. Don't let power surges damage your HVAC system. Contact Columbus Energies now for professional surge protection solutions and ensure your system's longevity and performance! HVAC Components Vulnerable to Power Surges Here are several parts affected by power surges: HVAC Control Board Often referred to as the system's "brain," the HVAC control board is critical for communication with the thermostat. A power surge can damage this component, disrupting its function. Such damage impairs the HVAC system's ability to regulate temperature effectively, leading to insufficient heating or cooling. This can result in discomfort, especially during periods of extreme temperatures. HVAC Compressor Motor This crucial part of your HVAC system, recognizable as a box with wires protruding, plays a pivotal role in refrigerant compression. It converts low-pressure, cool refrigerant into a high-pressure, heated state. The motor, integral to the compressor, is prone to power surge damage. It consists of numerous wires that transform electrical energy into kinetic energy. A surge can cause these wires to overheat, potentially leading to combustion. Furthermore, a compromised motor affects the compressor's performance, hindering its ability to function efficiently. HVAC Capacitor This essential component, typically oval-shaped, serves as a storage unit for electrical charge, crucial for powering the electrical components in your HVAC system. Vulnerable to power surges, the capacitor can sustain damage when exposed to such events. This damage may result in operational difficulties for your HVAC system. HVAC Relay Switch This switch plays a crucial role in your HVAC system, acting to turn on or off components that require high-voltage power. A key feature of most relay switches is an electrical contactor surrounded by a coil. In the event of a voltage exceeding a specific threshold, as in a power surge, the coil is likely to burn out. This can lead to a broken circuit, causing the relay switch to malfunction. Keep your HVAC system safe from power surges with Columbus Energies' comprehensive surge protection services. Reach out to us today for peace of mind and reliable protection! Preventing Power Surge Damage to Your HVAC System Power surges pose a severe risk to HVAC systems, potentially leading to expensive repairs or replacements. Listed below are several tips to protect your HVAC system from power surge damage: Install Surge Protectors: Placing surge protectors on your HVAC unit and electrical panels offers crucial defense against unexpected power surges. These devices act as a barrier, safeguarding your system. Unplug Appliances During Storms: As a precaution, disconnect your HVAC system and other appliances during thunderstorms or severe weather. This simple action can prevent potential damage from lightning-induced surges. Utilize High-Quality Wiring: Implementing top-tier wiring and components is crucial in safeguarding your HVAC system against power surge damage. For optimal safety and efficiency, it's advisable to have these elements installed by a skilled electrician. Regular HVAC Maintenance: Consistently maintaining your HVAC system is a proactive way to prevent surge-related damage. Key practices include cleaning and replacing air filters, ensuring proper refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical connections. Install a Whole-House Surge Protector: Consider a whole-house surge protector for comprehensive protection. Installed at your main electrical panel, it shields your entire home, HVAC system included, from power surges, thus securing all your appliances. Ensure your HVAC system's safety and longevity with Columbus Energies' top-notch surge protection services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your investment! HVAC Power Surge Damage & Warranty Limitations Warranties from HVAC manufacturers typically exclude coverage for power surge damage. Relying on homeowners' insurance can be complex, as proving surge-related damage is often difficult, especially when it accumulates over time. Consequently, homeowners might find themselves responsible for expensive HVAC repairs arising from incidents like lightning strikes, overloaded electrical circuits, or appliance-related issues. Conclusion HVAC systems represent a significant investment crucial for home comfort. Proactive prevention is vital to avoid incurring high costs from power surge damages. Investing in protective measures is a wise choice compared to facing the expense of repairs or replacements. Consult trusted HVAC professionals to ensure your system is well-protected and maintained. Contact Columbus Energies for All Your HVAC Needs Columbus Energies is a premier heating and cooling service provider in Southeastern Massachusetts and the Rhode Island region. Our professionally certified technicians are highly skilled in various HVAC services, including tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Rely on our expertise for accurate and efficient servicing of your system. As a highly sought-after service provider in the region, we are always prepared to meet your HVAC needs. We pride ourselves on offering the area's most affordable heating and cooling solutions. Columbus Energies is synonymous with quality service and cost-effectiveness. lightening storm and hvac surge protection$