Natural gas is a great way to keep your home warm and cozy in the colder months, but did you know that you can use natural gas in other ways around your house? Since natural gas is usually much cheaper than electricity, it’s a cost-effective option that can address homeowners’ multiple needs. Take a look at some different ways to use natural gas to power your home.
Heating Water
Homes that are already connected to natural gas usually include a natural gas water heater as well. Natural gas-powered water heaters are more economical to run than electric water heaters. They usually heat water more quickly than electricity, which may allow you to run a smaller-capacity unit. These water heaters typically range from 20 to 100 gallons depending on the needs of your household.
Natural gas also gives you the option of adding a “tankless” or “on-demand” water heater. These options give you back a little space because they don’t require a large tank. Your water simply gets heated as you need it, on-demand. This can save you significant money, as you’re no longer paying to keep 40 or 60 gallons of water hot at all times.
Cooking
Many professional cooks prefer using a natural gas-powered oven instead of an electric model, but these models aren’t just for top chefs. Natural gas-powered ranges typically provide better temperature control, allowing you to cook each dish with precision. Not only does this method allow for better accuracy in the kitchen, but it also uses significantly less energy than an electric oven, and puts less wear and tear on your pots and pans.
In general, these units heat and cool more quickly, and new models with an electric ignition use about 40 percent less natural gas than their electric counterparts. A natural gas stove might be your family’s perfect solution for cooking better meals and keeping your energy budget low.
Lighting a Fire
If gathering firewood, sweeping up ashes, and maintaining a wood stove isn’t your cup of tea, consider a natural gas fireplace. In addition to being highly efficient, you’ll never have to worry about ashes, soot, splinters, and other messes created by wood-burning stoves.
Natural gas stoves are also convenient because they can be controlled with the flip of a switch. When leaving your home, you can simply flip the switch to turn off the fire and flip it back on when you return.
If you can’t renovate your existing fireplace, consider purchasing a gas insert, which can be inserted into a traditional fireplace to increase its efficiency.
Outdoor Grilling
Currently at about half the cost of propane, natural gas is a smart choice for affordable, convenient backyard cooking. Natural gas grills are always ready to go, even during a power outage. You’ll never have to worry about buying more charcoal or propane again. These grills are also environmentally friendly, with fewer emissions and fuel odors compared to charcoal grills.
Drying Clothes
Did you know that you could dry two loads of laundry in a natural gas dryer for the price of one load in an electric dryer? Natural gas dryers can save you up to 50 percent in energy costs compared to electric models. Also, since natural gas dryers use a larger amount of dry, absorbent air, your laundry will be done faster. With a lifetime burner and an automatic shut-off option, a natural gas dryer might be the perfect option for your busy household.
Want more helpful energy conservation facts, tips, and information? Check out our free Home Energy Guide.