Propane: An Upgrade for the Kitchen?
From Anna on November 24th, 2008 in Kitchen Remodel
Gas and electric have dominated kitchen appliances for many years. Most people have a very definite idea of what they prefer. Some base their choice on efficiency and cost, others just prefer one over the other. When recently remodeling my kitchen, I opted for electric just because I have small children, and I’m more familiar with cooking with electric. These days, however, consumers are forced to base their decision more on affordability. Electric has always been expensive and gas has risen dramatically recently. This leaves us to take a closer look at propane.
So how does propane compare to gas and electric? Some prefer propane because it still works, even with a power outage. This can be very advantageous in some areas of the country. Propane has many of the same perks as natural gas, such as more efficient heat than electric, quicker heating times, and more even cooking. Price wise, it sometimes is less expensive than gas; although this depends on where you live. Here is a calculator for determining how it compares for you in your area.
Propane appliances can be a bit harder to find than gas or electric, although many of the normal distributers can special order them for you. Here is one distributer that carries a large line of propane appliances.
Basically, the decision comes down to the monthly operating cost. Do a little homework; call your local gas, electric, and propane company to determine the current rates. Talk with your plumbing contractor and HVAC installer to price systems for your area.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:34 am
Anna, You forgot to mention a few important aspects of propane and appliances. As an appliances salesman for several years, I know that most Natural Gas appliances are convertible to propane, with many if not all of the major manufacturers (GE, Maytag/ Whirlpool, Etc.) supplying the kit with the appliances (Ranges, cooktops, and dryers). Many are also easily installed by even novice tool wielders (Most are just brass plugs that replace the NG ones). There are a few that will require special kits direct from the manufacturer though and may need to be installed by certified installers to avoid voiding the manufacturers warranty. A good appliances sales person should be able to help with this as well. Water heaters are one of the things that are not convertible, and need to be purchased appropriately.
The next important aspect is the difference in BTUs (British Thermal Units: 1 BTU = 1 lit match) between Propane and Natural Gas. Propane contains 2,516 BTUs per Cubic Foot (Converted) and Natural Gas contains 1,030 BTUs per Cubic Foot. While this may make you think that Propane would be more powerful in your appliances, the opposite is actually true due to the conversion process of the liquid state of propane vs the more readily available (and easier flowing nature of gas) BTUs of NG. IE: a 18,000 BTU burner in NG would convert to just 15,000 BTUs using propane and a 13,500 BTU Broiler may only produce 12,000 BTUs with Propane. Checking the manufacturers websites can greatly help you when determining such factors.