Can Propane Heaters Help Me Reach Net Zero? Comparing Fuel Sources

We all need to do our part to reduce our carbon emissions, but it can be overwhelming for many of us. Some new technologies are extremely expensive, incompatible with your home, or otherwise undesirable.

If you want to stay warm and reduce your carbon emissions but don’t have thousands of dollars to spend, here’s what you need to know!

Comparing Emissions by Fuel Source

To be clear, we compare these emissions by the amount of heat they offer in British Thermal Units or BTUs. This is because propane is a gas, oil and natural gas are liquids, and wood and pellets are solids. We can’t measure them fairly in gallons, pounds, or other metrics.

Therefore, the only way to accurately determine which emits more greenhouse gases is by the amount of heat they offer. Let’s assume that you use 10 million BTUs throughout the winter and compare the emissions for each fuel source!

Oil Heat

Many homes in the US and Canada run on oil or natural gas, as these are the two most accessible fuel types. After 10 million BTUs throughout the winter, these fuels would emit around 1634 pounds (744 kg) of CO2 into the atmosphere. 

Electric Heat

We know that appliances need to be electrified if we want a livable future, right? Unfortunately, electric resistance heat just isn’t a viable option.

Electric resistance heat runs at 100% efficiency, but it’s still the most expensive heat source to run by far. Converting electricity directly to heat offers 3,421 BTUs per kWh. That means you will use around 2930 kWh of electricity on heating each winter, or 2,454 lbs (1113 kg) of CO2 each year.

On the other hand, heat pumps are the most environmentally friendly and create the fewest emissions (depending on your grid supply). However, even with the state and federal tax rebates, they will still cost thousands of dollars to install, which few households have available.

Propane

Yes, propane is a fossil fuel. However, it’s the cleanest among them.

Per 10 million BTUs, propane will emit around 1386 pounds of carbon, just over half of the emissions from electric resistance heat. Switching from electric heat to propane could actually be a major step in the right direction for households using electric heat without breaking the bank. You’ll also have more energy independence, as you won’t need to rely on the grid for your heat!

Most Efficient Propane Heaters

If you want to save money when you upgrade your home’s heating system, or if you want to bring cleaner heat to your off-grid cabin, then Martin propane heaters are the way to go.

These use direct vents to connect to your propane tank, and they have third-party accreditations for their efficiency. Also, they last forever, so you won’t have to worry about upgrading any time soon! The best part is that, if you’re handy, you can even install them yourself!  

Buy a Martin Heater Today

Now that you know the difference between heating fuels and their effect on the environment, you can make your home safer and more eco-friendly today! Using a Martin propane heater for supplemental heat or a primary heating source can reduce your energy bills, save money, and ensure your safety throughout the winter.

Stay up to date with our latest product tips, and buy a Martin propane heater today with free shipping and a price match guarantee!