It is important to never change the gas source between natural gas and propane without also changing the orifices, regulators and valves. Natural gas is supplied to homes at about half the pressure propane is supplied in tanks. Natural gas orifices are larger on a BBQ than the propane counterp...
If you decide to buy a gas dryer, you may need to factor in the cost of having a gas line professionally installed. Be aware that this can cost upward of several hundred dollars -- in many cases, this can outweigh the long-term energy bill savings, or at least render them negligible....
If you find that your refrigerator's compressor is constantly running -- wasting energy and cutting down the life of your appliance -- it could be due to problems with the door. Ideally, the climate inside a refrigerator would never be broken, and the unit could maintain a steady temperature...
Whole-house propane tanks are basically large versions of the ones that you use for your gas grill. Feed the into your house by pipes, just like your natural gas line, and refill the tank as you need it. Another option for heating your water is to go with a tankless water heater. ...
Place a thermometer in each container of water to track the temperature change. Does the angle of the box toward the sun make a difference? What if you use a longer piece of tubing and make more loops? The warmer the water coming out, the more heat it's absorbing from the sun. If ...
Using a heat gun or propane torch on PVC pipes poses significant risks due to the nature of PVC material and the high temperatures involved. PVC, when exposed to high heat, can release toxic fumes including chlorine gas and dioxins, which are harmful if inhaled and can cause respiratory probl...
chimneys, flues, and fireplaces should be checked regularly. Chimneys and vents going through a roof should be checked for rodent and bird nests. In the winter, make sure any vents from the basement going out the side of the home (such as a gas dryer or furnace) do not get clogged with...
Tire chainsare also a must. In some areas of the country when snow mounts, local jurisdiction requires tire chains on your tow vehicle to continue your travel. Aheadlampmight come in handy if you have to change out your propane tanks in the dark. Holding a flashlight will make the job ne...
With warmer months just around the corner, spring-cleaning isn’t far away. Whether you want to clear some of the winter clutter or just feel like a change in scenery, spring-cleaning can make it happen. Now is the perfect time to clean out the garage, basement and/or attic. If there...
To be a little more scientific about it: Burning fuel (usually gas, oil, or propane) releases the chemical energy stored in its molecular bonds, and it comes out as heat. It's the same deal with wood stoves. "Regular" electric heat, or electric-resistance heat, is another variation of...