Propane offers flexibility and compliments finishes that go into any project
By Bryan Cordill
Over the last few years, homeowners have found a new appreciation for outdoor living. They are looking for outdoor living spaces that are an extension of indoor ones, and propane is an environmentally friendly and sustainable way to make that happen.
Professionals like Anthony Carrino—a designer, developer, and contractor with more than 20 years of experience in the industry—agree that using propane is an excellent solution to be environmentally conscious while meeting their customers’ needs for enhanced outdoor living spaces.
Propane helps homeowners reduce their carbon footprint
Prioritizing environmentally-friendly appliances in outdoor living projects is increasingly important to both consumers and construction professionals looking to reduce their carbon footprint—and one of the best ways to do that is by using clean energy sources, like propane. Outdoor amenities powered by propane give construction professionals the flexibility to add these options to any project—without sacrificing style and design.
Due to its lower carbon make up, propane significantly reduces the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere, helping combat climate change and improving the air quality in and around the home. Propane outdoor fireplaces and fire pits emit less soot and particulate matter compared with wood-burning options that release smoke and toxins into the air. In fact, jurisdictions in some parts of the country restrict the use of traditional wood-burning fireplaces and fire pits during certain times of the year due to their detrimental impact on air quality and respiratory health. Compared with charcoal, propane grills not only heat food faster, but produce fewer carbon dioxide emissions. According to a 2009 study in the Environmental Impact Assessment Review, the carbon dioxide equivalent for charcoal grilling is almost three times more than that for propane grilling.
Outdoor propane appliances can be used at any time
In addition to its environmental benefits, propane-powered appliances can extend the coziness of a homeowner’s backyard space throughout every season. Patio heaters add comfort on chilly nights by raising the nearby outdoor temperature by up to 25 degrees Fahrenheit and can operate on a portable cylinder, or permanently connected to the homes propane system. . When asked how propane appliances can enhance a home build or remodel, Carrino said, “Propane appliances can help increase usability of a homeowner’s outdoor space, enabling them to enjoy it year-round.”
There’s no need to sacrifice style
Homeowners want outdoor appliances that reflect their home’s style and aesthetic, too. Luckily, propane offers a wide variety of products, designs, features, and sizes from top manufacturers to match homeowners’ varying tastes, budgets, and style preferences—making it the perfect fit for any project.
As the number of environmentally conscious homeowners continues to grow, it’s important for contractors, builders, and remodelers to be well-versed in the clean energy options available to give your customers the backyard of their dreams. Visit Propane.com/Propane-Products/Outdoor-Living to learn more about the benefits of propane.
Bryan Cordill is the director of residential business development at the Propane Education & Research Council. He can be reached at bryan.cordill@propane.com.
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