Building a New Home? Here’s Why You Should Choose Propane

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new construction homeBuilding a new home is an exciting adventure full of choices. And one of the choices you’ll need to make is what energy source you want for your home. When it comes to home heating, there are other options available besides electric heat.  

Propane is a common household energy source with a lot of benefits. Alamance Oil, your Burlington propane provider, is available and makes the entire process easy, so consider the many reasons you should choose propane for your new home.  

Energy Efficiency 

One of the biggest benefits of using propane is the fact that it is energy efficient. Propane produces more heat per BTU than oil or natural gas, meaning a smaller amount of propane is required to produce the same amount of heat or energy as other fuels. Building a new home that uses less fuel could mean you save a lot of money on your energy bills.  

Versatility 

Propane can be used for much more than just home heat. Propane can be used to fuel your stove, oven, grill, clothes dryer, and more. When it comes to choosing your new home appliances, keep propane in mind and find appliances that can run on propane.  

Safety 

Propane burns clean, is non-toxic, and won’t pollute the environment or contaminate groundwater if a leak occurs. It only burns at extremely high temperatures, so the fire risk is very low. It emits no greenhouse gases. By choosing propane, you are not only protecting your home and family, you’re doing your part to reduce your household’s impact on the environment.  

Affordability 

Want to avoid a monthly heating bill and reduce your electric bill? Propane is typically purchased in bulk before the cold weather season. You can pay one time a year, or even less if your tank holds enough for multiple years or if the weather is mild. However, if spreading out the cost over time works better for your budget, monthly payment plans are available as well.  

Convenience 

Propane can be delivered anywhere, even to rural areas where natural gas lines don’t reach. If you’re building your new home in the suburbs, propane might be your best option for home heat and other appliances. And propane works when the power goes out, so you’ll still have heat, hot water, and a hot meal even when there’s no electricity.  

Plan for Propane from the Start 

If you’re planning to use propane in your new home, communicate this to your builder as soon as you have decided. Your builder may ask you about your plans for home heating and cooling and other appliances before you get the chance to bring it up. But make sure it is a part of the initial planning. The sooner you incorporate this into the home design, the better. A propane home may need some specifics in structure, equipment, and landscaping.  

Want to talk to an expert about household propane usage? Call Burlington propane supplier Alamance Oil today at (336) 226-9371 to discuss your options for using propane in your new home.  

3 Common AC Problems Solved

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Most of the time your air conditioner probably works fine. With regular maintenance, an air conditioning system usually operates free of problems. However, when the occasional issue occurs, there’s often an easy solution. 

But in the event that it can’t be easily solved, Berico is here to help. Call (336) 273-8663 or schedule HVAC service. Berico provides maintenance, repair, and air conditioning installation in Greensboro.

 

Problem 1: Low Air Flow. Does it seem that the flow of air coming out of your vents is weak? If you can barely feel it or you have to stand on a stool and put your hand right in front of the vent to feel it, something is wrong. 

Solution: Change your filters. The most common reason for low airflow is dirty, clogged filters. If it’s been more than 6 months since you’ve changed your filters, you are likely to find a buildup of dust and dirt (and pet hair if you have pets). If changing your filters doesn’t improve airflow, call Berico. You may have a blower problem instead. 

Problem 2: Outdoor unit is frozen over. Is there ice on your outdoor unit? This is a common problem that occurs with air conditioners, but there may be an easy solution.

Solution: First, check your filters. You already know from problem 1 that dirty filters can impede airflow. Low airflow over the evaporator coil inside your AC unit can cause it to freeze over because it’s not getting enough warm air. If the filters are relatively clean, you may have a dirty evaporator coil. At this point, it’s best to call Berico for a thorough cleaning of your system. 

Problem 3: Short Cycling. Does your AC seem to turn on and off repeatedly? It doesn’t stay on or off for very long, and your home doesn’t feel cool. There are a few possible reasons and solutions for this behavior.

Solution: 

  • First, check your filters. This should always be the first step when you have an AC problem. 
  • Next, consider your thermostat. The placement of your thermostat plays a big part in the operation of your air conditioner. If it’s in an area where it gets direct sunlight or it’s near a door that opens frequently, it may cause your AC to run more often. Consider moving your thermostat to a more ideal location. 
  • Another cause could be a refrigerant leak, which requires professional HVAC service to correct.
  • And finally, your air conditioner might be oversized for your home. If you’ve just had air conditioning installation in Greensboro and your AC is short cycling, you might have the wrong size system. Call Berico if you’ve checked the filters and the problem still persists. 

Fast, Affordable Air Conditioning Installation in Greensboro

Common AC problems typically have simple solutions and can often be repaired. But in some cases an air conditioner can’t be fixed and needs to be replaced. If your system is over 10 years old, it should probably be replaced anyway, whether it can be repaired or not. An older system is significantly less efficient than a new system, which means it is wasting energy and running up your energy bill. Consider air conditioning installation in Greensboro by the experts at Berico and you could save money each month. Call (336) 273-8663 or schedule HVAC service. 

Best Practices for Keeping your AC in Top Shape

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Air conditioners are amazing machines. They can keep your home comfortably cool on even the hottest summer days, transforming hot, humid air into crisp, cool air. That is, until the unfortunate moment that something malfunctions and your system stops working. Suddenly the coolness is gone and you’re left wondering what went wrong. This situation may have been avoided if the air conditioner was properly cared for. 

Immediately following air conditioning installation in Reidsville, start on these best practices for keeping your AC in top shape and you can extend the overall life of your system. 

Follow a Regular Maintenance Schedule

The best thing you can do for your air conditioner is to get a professional inspection and tune-up each year. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep all the moving parts in your AC working properly, the refrigerant levels right, and the electrical components connected. Cleaning is a big part of maintenance as well, because dirt, dust, and other debris can build up in your air conditioner over time causing a variety of problems from clogged filters to an ineffective evaporator coil. 

Keep the Area Around your Outside AC Unit Clear

A common mistake that many homeowners make is to try and conceal their outdoor unit by planting bushes or plants around it. This, unfortunately, causes plant debris, dirt, and pollen to get into the unit and inhibit the flow of air. You should keep the area around your outdoor AC unit completely clear. Periodically clear away leaves and other debris that may blow up against the unit. When mowing around the unit, mow in such a direction that the grass clipping will be blown away from it. If necessary after mowing or weed eating, use a broom or brush to clear off the unit. 

Change your Filters Regularly

One of the easiest, but most often forgotten, best practices for air conditioners is to change your filters regularly. Every 3 months is optimal, but every 6 months is the minimum. Clogged or even slightly dirty filters inhibit the flow of air into the intake vents. When your AC doesn’t get enough air, it won’t be able to effectively create cool air and disburse it throughout your home. If you feel you’re experiencing low airflow out of your vents or any other AC problems, try replacing your filters and see if it improves. Changing filters regularly will also reduce the amount of dust, pollen, and other allergens that blow around your home. 

Call your HVAC Service at the First Sign of a Problem

Do you have reason to suspect that your AC may not be working properly? Have you heard weird noises coming from your system, noticed uneven cooling in various areas of your home, or the circuit breaker for your AC unit keeps tripping? These are just a few of the many signs that your air conditioner is not operating properly. When you ignore these signs you are increasing the chances of a total system breakdown that may result in the need for new air conditioning installation in Reidsville. 

Carolina Fuels Offers Maintenance, AC Repair, and Air Conditioning Installation in Reidsville

Carolina Fuels is your complete home comfort service, offering maintenance, emergency repair, and air conditioning installation in Reidsville, Eden, and the surrounding area. Whatever HVAC services you need, Carolina Fuels is ready to respond. Call (336) 623-9741 to schedule an appointment today.

10 Signs that it’s Time to Replace your Air Conditioner

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Is your air conditioner starting to show some unusual behavior? It may be a warning that it’s time to replace it. There are a variety of signs that indicate an air conditioner may be on its last legs, and replacing it before it gives out completely is wise. If you need AC replacement in Reidsville, call Carolina Fuels (336) 623-9741 or schedule HVAC service. 

 

Warning Signs of a Dying Air Conditioner

 

  • Unusual noises. Is your AC making a lot of noise? Or are you hearing noises from it that don’t seem normal? A worn-out air conditioner tends to get noisy, and those sounds are often a sign that it will soon need to be replaced. 
  • Fluid leaks. Do you see liquid around your outdoor unit? Other than a small amount of condensation, there should not be fluids coming out of your air conditioner. Depending on the severity of the leak, this could mean a replacement is necessary. 
  • Uneven cooling. Do some areas of your home seem cool and others not? If your air conditioner is not able to cool your home evenly, it may be reaching its end. 
  • Low airflow. First, check your filters to make they aren’t clogged. If the filters seem fine but airflow is low, you may have a problem that is not easily repaired. System replacement could be on the horizon. 
  • Air isn’t cool. Is the air coming from your vents is warm instead of cool? This is a sign of major AC malfunction that could result in the need for replacement. 
  • Needs frequent repairs. Has your HVAC repairman been your most frequent visitor? When your AC needs to be repaired more than twice in a year, it may be time to consider replacing it instead. 
  • It’s more than 10 years old. The age of your air conditioner could be reason enough to replace it. Air conditioners have an average life span of 10-15 years. If your system is older than 10 years it significantly less efficient than a new system. Replacing it could save you money on your monthly energy bill. 
  • Energy bills are on the rise. A rising energy bill is an indicator that your AC is not operating properly. A malfunctioning machine uses more energy than it should, and your bill may show it. 
  • An expensive repair is needed. If your AC requires a repair that costs over half the total cost of a new unit, your best option may be to go ahead and replace it, especially if it is an older system. 
  • Poor air quality. If you notice strange smells, especially a musty smell, you could have mold growing in your system which can be extremely harmful to your respiratory system. If you see more dust on surfaces or blowing around your home, this is also abnormal. A total system replacement may be necessary to eliminate these allergens. 

 

Reliable AC Replacement in Reidsville by Carolina Fuels

If you notice any of these 10 signs, call Carolina Fuels for an AC evaluation: (336) 623-9741 or schedule HVAC service. Your Carolina Fuels technician will give you an honest recommendation on whether or not you need AC replacement in Reidsville. You don’t have to fear the cost, because affordable financing options are available. And with a new high-efficiency system, you could even save money on a monthly basis and in the long term. Call Carolina Fuels today and replace that old machine before it can quit on you. 

Propane Safety: What to do if you Suspect a Leak

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You may think that propane leaks are more likely to occur during the winter months when propane is used for home heating. However, leaks can occur at any time of the year, especially during warmer weather when propane is used for grilling and outdoor fireplaces. 

Alamance Oil, a leading propane supplier in Burlington, wants you and everyone in your household to know what to do to safely respond to a possible propane leak. 

How to Recognize a Propane Leak

The first thing you’ll notice if there is a propane leak is the smell. Propane is naturally odorless, so a scent is added during production to make it easily detectable to people. The smell of propane has been described as smelling like rotten eggs, a skunk, or a dead animal. If you smell this inside your home or outside near your tank, you may have a propane leak. 

If you Suspect a Gas Leak, Follow these steps:

  • Leave the area. Get out of the house or away from the area where you smell the propane. Alert everyone in the home and area and make sure they leave as well. 
  • No flames or sparks. Extinguish any flames and be sure not to light anything. Avoid the use of anything that could cause a spark, including electronics like cell phones.
  • Turn off the gas valve. If it is safe to do so, turn off the gas valve on the tank. Turn it to the right or clockwise until it stops turning. Turn off all tanks you have on your property. 
  • Call your propane supplier or 911. If there is no immediate danger, call your propane supplier to report the leak. If there is a reason to be concerned about anyone’s safety, such as a fire, call 911. If your propane company is closed, call 911. 
  • Do not return to the area unless a professional deems it safe. Do not go back into your home or to the area where you suspect the leak until your propane supplier or an emergency responder says it is safe to do so. 
  • Have your propane appliances inspected. Before using any of your propane appliances, including your furnace or grill, have your propane supplier inspect them for safe operation and condition. In some cases, the leak may be caused by a faulty appliance instead of the tank or gas line itself. 

 

Not Sure Who to Call?

Most propane tanks have a company name listed and sometimes also a phone number to call in case of a problem or leak. If you’re not sure who your propane tank is supplied by, and you can’t find any information on the tank itself, call 911 to report the leak. Then call Alamance Oil who can help you through the free and easy process of swapping out tanks to become a new customer. Alamance Oil propane services include many benefits from discounted HVAC service to automatic deliveries. Call Alamance Oil today: (336) 226-9371 or request service. 

Considering Replacing your AC? Here’s what you Need to Know

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Open room in houseIt’s that time of year. The temperatures are warming up, the days are getting longer and soon enough you’ll need to turn on your air conditioner. What kind of shape is yours in? Are you confident that it’s up to the task of cooling your home for another scorching summer? If not, it may be time to consider replacing your system. But before you schedule your AC replacement in Eden, here’s what you need to know about getting a new air conditioner.

How do you Know When it’s Time to Replace your AC?

There are some signs that can alert you to the fact that your air conditioner may be on its last legs. The warning signs include:

  • Unusual noises. This is a sign of parts wearing out or getting loose, vibrations, and other malfunctions.
  • Uneven cooling. A struggling AC will fail to cool your home consistently throughout.
  • Frequent cycling on and off. If your AC comes on and goes off repeatedly without ever reaching the desired indoor temperature, you have a malfunctioning system.
  • Indoor humidity. Your air conditioner should naturally remove humidity from your home. If your windows fog up or you find condensation on metal surfaces indoors, your AC isn’t doing its job.
  • Circuit breaker trips. Frequent tripping of the circuit breaker that corresponds to your air conditioner is a sign of an electrical issue that may or may not be repairable.

These or any other non-typical behavior from your AC are common indicators that your system is not operating properly. Repair may be possible, but a complete system replacement could be the only option.

The Age of your System is an Important Factor

Depending on the manufacturer and model of your air conditioning system, it likely has an expected lifespan of 10-15 years. Often systems will last between 15-20 years when well maintained. But past about 20 years and you’re really running on borrowed time. Another point to consider is that older systems are not nearly as energy efficient as newer systems. Major advancements in technology have led to the development of high-efficiency air conditioning systems that can operate using significantly less energy. Replacing your old system can save a lot of energy and noticeably lower your monthly electricity bill. If you’re facing an expensive repair, it may be in your best interest to replace your system instead.

Carolina Fuels can give you an Expert Recommendation on AC Replacement in Eden

When you think you may need AC replacement in Eden, it’s important to get an evaluation from an experienced, knowledgeable HVAC service. Carolina Fuels can inspect your system and evaluate its condition to formulate the best possible course of action. If your AC can be easily repaired so that it can operate efficiently for longer, that may be the best choice. But if the repair is only buying you time until the inevitable replacement is necessary, it might be smarter to go ahead and get it done. Your technician will take everything into consideration when making a recommendation, including your budget.

Call Carolina Fuels to schedule an AC inspection by a certified technician: (336) 623-9741.

3 Ways AC Maintenance can Save you Money

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piggy bankWhat’s the number one reason homeowners opt out of yearly HVAC maintenance? The cost. You don’t want to pay for AC repair in Greensboro when nothing seems to be wrong with your system. But the reality is that preventative maintenance can actually save you money, in three specific ways.

  • Energy Efficiency. One way that AC maintenance can save you money is through increased energy efficiency.
  • As your air conditioner operates it accumulates dirt, dust, and grime that needs to be cleaned out. When your evaporator coil (the part that holds the refrigerant and does most of the work cooling the air that eventually goes through your ducts to cool your home) gets dirty it inhibits its cooling capabilities. The dirt insulates the coil, keeping the heat from transferring as it should, which can cause your system to freeze over or fail to achieve your desired indoor temperature.
  • As parts wear out they need to be replaced. Otherwise, your system can fail at any time when a part breaks, and you won’t be able to predict when.
  • Lubrication dries up and the moving parts of your air conditioner won’t move as easily. The friction that results causes your system to work harder than it should and parts wear out faster than they typically would.
  • Fewer Repair Fees. Unexpected repairs can result in you paying more for services. For example:
  • Emergency or after-hours fees. When you have to call an HVAC service to come out for a repair after normal business hours, such as nights or weekends, you may pay a higher fee.
  • Frequent repairs needed. An HVAC system that is not regularly tuned up is likely to break down more often and require more frequent repairs, which will cost more in the long run than the upfront cost of yearly maintenance.
  • Longer AC Lifespan. An HVAC system that receives regular maintenance will last longer than one that doesn’t. Much like a car or any other working machine, taking proper care of it will allow you to get more years of quality performance out of it. If you’ve ever had to replace your HVAC system, you know that’s a pretty significant financial undertaking. You don’t want to have to do it often or prematurely, which is more likely to happen without routine maintenance.

 

Save Even More when you choose Berico AC Repair in Greensboro

Now that you know the top 3 ways that AC maintenance can save you money, you should know all the ways Berico can save you even more. When you schedule yearly AC repair in Greensboro with a Berico technician, you receive the following additional benefits:

  • 20% off all repairs
  • 20% off diagnostic fees
  • No after-hours charges on repairs
  • Priority Service
  • $50 in Bonus Bucks (can be used toward new equipment)
  • $500 off a new oil or propane furnace

A Comfort and Protection Service Plan from Berico includes yearly AC maintenance and all of the above benefits. Get the best performance out of your HVAC system and save money at the same time. Call to schedule your maintenance appointment today: (336) 273-8663.

4 Ways to Be Sure your HVAC System is Ready for a Change in Seasons

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spring flowersAs the Earth travels around the sun the seasons inevitably change. And with the change of the seasons comes the need to change your HVAC system to the appropriate home comfort setting. Whether you’re going from heat to cool or vice versa, how do you know if your system is ready to make the switch? Is there any way to know ahead of time if you’ll need AC repair in Reidsville? There are 4 precise ways to be sure your HVAC system is going to operate properly on the first warm day.

  • Inspect it. Look over your air conditioning system, both the indoor and outdoor unit. When checking the indoor unit, make sure there’s nothing sitting too close or on top of it. Dust it off, but don’t go inside of it or take anything apart unless you have the experience to do so without causing damage. Check the outside unit for leaves, sticks, or other yard debris that maybe have settled on top or around it. Remove any weeds or tree branches that have encroached on it during the offseason.
  • Replace the filters. With each change in season, it’s a good idea to replace your filters. The dust, dirt, hair, and other debris will clog the filter and inhibit air flow into your air conditioner. It can even manage to get through or around the filter when it builds up excessively. You can replace your filters more often if you suffer from allergies to remove more allergens from the air. If your home is newly built or you’ve had a recent home renovation you should replace filters monthly for the first few months following construction.
  • Turn it on. Test your AC by turning it on and setting the desired temperature lower than the current indoor temperature. Listen as it comes on and while it runs. Watch to see that it reaches the desired indoor temperature and shuts off properly.
  • Schedule professional maintenance. The best thing you can do to be sure your HVAC system is ready for a new season is the schedule professional maintenance. Have a reliable HVAC service inspect and tune up your system with each change in seasons. Any potential problems will be discovered before the weather changes so that you can avoid unfortunate surprises that may result in the need for emergency AC repair in Reidsville.

Carolina Fuels Offers Seasonal Maintenance for your HVAC System

At each season change, call Carolina Fuels to schedule an inspection and tune-up for your system. Or to make it effortless, sign up for a Comfort and Protection Service Agreement and Carolina Fuels will contact you to schedule a maintenance appointment. The Comfort and Protection Service Agreement comes with additional benefits, such as:

  • 20% off diagnostics
  • 20% off repairs
  • Priority service
  • No additional after-hours charges on repairs
  • $50 in Bonus Bucks that are good toward new equipment
  • $500 off a new oil or propane furnace

Call today to schedule AC repair in Reidsville and become a priority customer when you sign up for a Comfort and Protection Service Plan at Carolina Fuels: (336) 623-9741.

Tips for Choosing the Right HVAC System for your Home

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ac unitHVAC systems (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) are not all the same. Choosing the right one is a very important decision. Follow these tips and get an expert recommendation from Alamance Oil before you schedule air conditioning installation in Burlington.

Bigger is Not Always Better

It’s a common myth that a bigger HVAC system will make your home more comfortable and will run more efficiently. In fact, the opposite is true. Buying a system that is too big or too small for your home will cause it to fail to achieve the desired indoor temperature and can cause other issues from constant cycling to icing over. Ask the HVAC experts to recommend the right size system for the square footage and layout of your home before you purchase any equipment.

Some Systems Boast Unrealistic SEER Ratings

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a rating assigned to every HVAC system that suggests what kind of energy efficiency you can expect over a season of use. Similar to the gas mileage on a car, the number is not definite, but a suggestion or an estimate. Any system above a 14 SEER is considered efficient, with some systems being rated as high as 18 or 20 SEER. Some systems claim to reach a SEER of 21-25, but that is really an unrealistic rating. Those systems are also priced on the high end of the spectrum where the efficiency rarely ever makes up for the cost. It may be in your best interest to consider a system with a realistic SEER of between 14 and 18.

Online Reviews are one of the Best Sources of Information about HVAC System Quality

Take the time to research HVAC systems. Read reviews, compare brands, and see what real consumers are saying about some of the systems out there. Certain brands are known for quality and longevity, and you’ll see that some models always get the best reviews. Don’t purchase a system for which there is little or no information to be found. That should be a red flag to you that the manufacturer or model isn’t very popular, and probably for good reason.

Get a Recommendation from your Trusted HVAC Company

Alamance Oil has decades of experience repairing and installing a wide variety of HVAC systems. The best advice is likely to come from a professional heating and air conditioning specialist, who knows which systems break down often and which don’t, which systems last for 20 plus years and which ones will give you barely 10, and which are the most energy efficient.

Alamance Oil Offers more than just Air Conditioning Installation in Burlington

When you work with Alamance Oil you also get the benefit of HVAC expertise. Alamance Oil will recommend the best system for your home based on size, SEER, reviews, past performance, and any other helpful information. You can rest assured that you’ll be purchasing the right system in addition to quality air conditioning installation in Burlington. If you need a new HVAC system, call Alamance Oil first: (336) 226-9371.

Propane 101: Where Does Propane Come From?

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gas flameWhether you use propane or you’re thinking of using it, you may be wondering where exactly it comes from. Unlike natural gas, propane does not occur naturally. It is created or manufactured for residential and commercial use. But that does not mean that it is inferior to natural gas. Actually, the fact that it is manmade is a major benefit. Propane has been chemically engineered to be safe and efficient. If you’re considering using propane in Greensboro for the first time, here’s what you should know.

Propane is Made from Crude Oil or Natural Gas

Both crude oil and natural gas can be refined to create propane. It is what chemists refer to as a three-carbon alkaline. It exists as a gas under normal pressure, but can be pressurized into a liquid form for ease of storage and transport. When natural gas is processed, propane is one of the components that is removed, along with butane and ethane. When petroleum is made into gasoline or heating oil, propane is a by-product. Therefore propane comes from either natural gas or petroleum.

The Discovery and History of Propane

Marcellin Berthelot first discovered propane in France in 1857. It was then discovered in the US by Edmund Ronalds in 1864 in Pennsylvania light crude oil. But the real beginning of the propane industry was in 1910 when the US Bureau of Mines representative Walter O. Snelling touted it as a potential household energy source. In 1912 the New York Times published an article about Snelling’s work with liquefying the gas and thus it spread and eventually developed into the propane industry we know today.

There are Many Benefits to Propane in Greensboro

 

  • Manmade. The fact that propane does not have to be mined is a major advantage. Though it does have to be made from either natural gas or crude oil, those fuels are currently easy to access. As long as natural gas or petroleum exists, so can propane. And because it is chemically manufactured it can be altered in many ways.
  • Only burns at extremely high temperatures. Propane is one of the safest fuels because it will only burn at extremely high temperatures, which are rarely achieved, even by a house fire.
  • Environmentally friendly. Propane is non-toxic, burns clean, and will not contaminate groundwater in the case of a leak or spill.
  • Efficient. Propane creates more heat/energy per BTU than natural gas. It can heat your home and water faster and sustain a radiant heat that feels cozier on cold days.
  • Easy to transport. In its liquid form, propane is easy to store and move from place to place.
  • Alternative fuel where natural gas is not available. Not every home has access to natural gas. Propane is an alternative that can be delivered rather than tapped into.
  • Only buy propane when you need it. Rather than paying a monthly bill, you can simply pay when you need your tank refilled. Though many propane services do offer a monthly payment option to spread the cost more evenly.  

 

Call Berico today to request propane in Greensboro or speak to an expert about switching: (336) 273-8663.