If you are looking for ways to cut your electric bill, one option that may come up is propane. This is a switch that many homeowners are not aware of or do not know enough about to make an informed choice. If the option has been brought up to you, and you don't have much information on making this type of switch for your HVAC system, then here are a few key points you need to know.

Hybrid Heating and Cooling

The first thing you need to know about making the switch from electric to propane is that you may find yourself going hybrid. What this means is that you would be using propane during the summer for heating and a different source of power during the summer for cooling. Your options for the other fuel source would vary greatly depending on where you live. For example, if you are in an area that receives a large amount of direct sunlight during the spring and summer months, then you may want to go with propane during the winter months and solar cooling during the summer. Hybrid is an option because propane does not generally offer cooling options and rather uses the heating system to remove hot air from the home, but may not cool the actual air directly.

Conversion Kits

You will notice, as you begin to look into making the electric to propane switch, that conversion kits are available. These kits are geared to converting an existing furnace setup. The kits have the tools and supplies you need to make a basic switch from the one power source to the other. Keep in mind, these kits are readily available, but you may want to have a professional install the kit. If the kit is not installed properly, you could end up with damage to the entire furnace system. If you buy the conversion kit, your HVAC contractor may charge less for the installation since the parts are already purchased.

Furnace Installation

If you do not currently have a furnace in your home, then you may have to pay the upfront cost of having one installed. This is a consideration that many homeowners do not take into account. The benefit of this upgrade is that you can cut your energy costs down significantly during the winter months and you will be starting fresh with a system geared specifically for propane heating rather than making a conversion that may or may not provide ideal propane heating for your home.

By keeping these key points in mind about making the switch from electric to propane for your HVAC unit you can make an educated choice if the switch is right for you. If you think the switch is an ideal option, contact your local HVAC contractor. They can help you with pricing, scheduling an installation time, and answers to questions you have about the process.