Propane: The Perfect Fuel for “Off-the-Grid”

Written on: March 7, 2022

All the Benefits Might Surprise You!

Mention off-grid living, and most people think of “roughing it.” But today, an off-grid lifestyle can include every convenience of modern living, thanks to the versatility and efficiency of propane. Surprised by hearing that? Propane is clean-burning and abundant, making it a cost-effective home energy solution that can help lower energy bills—that means whether you’re living on- or off-grid.

Building in a remote location can be desirable for all kinds of reasons, but then, connecting to electric and natural gas can cost thousands of dollars. Propane, however, can be safely stored right on your property, in a tank. Combined with other alternative and renewable energy sources like solar, propane can transform off-grid living from extreme to extremely comfortable! Here’s how:

Propane is an Energy Efficient Fuel Source

Propane generates more Btus than an equivalent amount of electricity, so you need much less propane to produce the exact same amount of heat or energy. Also, propane appliances themselves are very efficient, which means they waste very little fuel in the combustion process.

The Versatility of Propane is Unrivaled

In addition to heating, propane is extremely efficient for powering a wide variety of appliances. When it comes to cooking, most chefs prefer the control that comes with a gas range. And propane water heaters generate much more hot water at a cheaper cost per gallon. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes that heat water with propane rather than electricity can see average annual savings of $174.

The same technology that makes propane ideal for water heaters makes it a smarter choice than electricity to power all kinds of appliances that use hot water or heat, such as:

• Clothes washers and dryers
• Dishwashers
• Outdoor lighting
• Patio heaters
• Pool and spa-tub heaters
• Outdoor grills

Propane Offers Great Reliability

For off-grid living, a propane-powered whole house generator provides the reliability and security other people get from the grid. A generator will kick on seamlessly when your solar or wind power is depleted. There’s no glitchy flickering, no brownouts.

Looking for a Cleaner and Greener Fuel? Choose Propane!

When it comes to environmental impact, propane gas is a good choice. It burns cleanly and produces minimal emissions. Propane also doesn’t harm soil or groundwater—an important factor in determining whether a fuel is “green.” Propane is also an American energy source. About 90% of the United States’ supply of propane is domestically generated. Most of it comes from the processing of natural gas.

Whether you’re interested in using propane for an off-grid property in Texas or New Mexico, or just want to add a backup generator to your propane-fueled home system, the pros at Pico Propane and Fuels can answer all your questions and help find you the perfect home solution. Contact us today for more information!