Tips for Grilling with Propane

With summer in full swing, grilling season is upon us! As you fire up your grill for cookouts and parties with friends and family this season, here are a few of our favorite tips and tricks for grilling with propane.

Make Sure you are Using the Correct Temperature

One of the many benefits of grilling with propane is the ease with which you can adjust the temperature of the flame. This versatility makes propane ideal for grilling a wide range of meats and vegetables to perfection. Just make sure you are using the correct temperature for the type of food you are grilling. Sticking to burgers or other thin cuts of meat like pork or lamb? Try a high heat with a quick cook time. Opting for fish, chicken, veggies, or other more delicate foods? Experts suggest using medium heat. If you are grilling a large cut of meat like a roast or an entire chicken, you should stick with a lower temperature with indirect heat. Not sure if your meat is ready to eat? We recommend using a meat thermometer to ensure your meal is properly prepared!

Keep a Close Eye on Your Food

We often find ourselves forgetting one of the easiest but most important tips for grilling with propane—keep a close watch on the grill! If you are hosting friends and family for a special event or grilling before the big game, you may be tempted to step away from the grill for a minute to socialize or check on the score. However, remaining present and keeping a close eye on whatever you may be cooking is critical to a delicious end result.

Add Some Extra Flavor with Wood Chips

If you are grilling with propane and want to spice up your dish with some extra flavor, we suggest adding wood chips into a smoke box to infuse some extra flavor. If you are grilling something with a quick cook time such as fish, stick to dry wood chips. Cooking ribs or chicken on a low heat for a longer period of time? Try a mixture of both dry and water soaked chips.

Keep Safety First

Whenever you grill with propane it is important to keep safety first! Some key safety items to keep in mind while you grill include always storing propane tanks in an upright position, keeping the grill top open until you are certain the fire is lit and using protective caps or plastic bags to keep disconnected hose-end fittings clean when your grill is not being used.

Ensure you Have Enough Fuel!

Nothing is worse than firing up the grill before a big barbecue only to realize you are out of propane! We suggest always keeping an extra propane tank on hand for instances like this to ensure you never leave your hungry guests waiting for food while you run out to refill your tank.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to fill up your propane tanks, fire up the grill, and enjoy some summer cookout fun! If you are planning on grilling with propane this season we are here to help. Our propane services are available in Henderson, Bicknell, Livermore, Elkton, Evansville, Dale and the surrounding area. Contact us today to learn more about our residential propane services for cooking and grilling.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Propane 

It’s no secret that heating your home takes a lot of energy. The good news is that there are more options than before on ways to heat your home. More than 9 million homes use propane around their home for things like their furnaces, water heaters, outdoor grills, generators and other household appliances. Propane is not only used in family homes but on farms as well. More than 660,000 farmers rely on propane for irrigation pumps, standby generators, and other pieces of farm equipment. With so many people using propane across the United States, it is no surprise that you may have questions if you’re thinking about heating your home with propane. Here are some frequently asked questions with answers to help you better understand propane and its benefits:

What is propane and what is it used for? 

Propane is a flammable hydrocarbon gas at standard temperature and pressure, but can be compressed into liquid form at a much lower temperature and pressure than natural gas. Similar to natural gas, propane fuel has a recognizable odor. It’s a reliable, versatile source of energy that is clean as well as cost effective. It is mostly used as fuel for things like generators, appliances, water heaters and furnaces. In the U.S. alone, almost 60 million people use propane.

What are the benefits of using propane compared to other sources? 

To start, propane is more affordable. Propane costs about half as much as electricity and propane gas fireplaces cost up to two-thirds less than wood burning fireplaces. It is reliable in the event of a power outage. Propane can keep things like heat, hot water, and household appliances running even in the worst weather conditions. For those with tank-less water heaters, propane costs about a third less to operate and has a significantly lower reheat time than electric heaters. Most of all, propane creates less pollution than many other power resources and is not harmful to use in soil and ground water supplies.

How do I choose a propane company?

While browsing and comparing propane companies for propane services and propane accessories, check for their safety record.   If you are not able to find anything on your own, ask a member of management if the associate is unsure. Because each state is required to have an agency regulating its propane industry, check with your local agency for safety records and compliance. Check to see if companies are members of nationally recognized associations like NPGA. These associations tend to have up to date info on its member companies. Lastly, check with the Better Business Bureau as you would any business. Find out how their past customers feel about their propane service and how they rank among the industry.

Now that you have some info on the basics of propane, you are in a better position to make an educated decision on propane use and choosing a propane provider.

If you still have questions about heating your home with propane, feel free to contact us today.

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10 Winter Weather Gas Safety Tips

Simple steps can make a big difference when winter weather produces obstacles to delivering fuel to your customers. Sending them reminders such as keeping the path clear to their propane tank, allowing proper ventilation, and being aware of their propane usage can go a long way to ensuring your customers’ safety and a better season for everyone.

MAINTAIN AN ADEQUATE SUPPLY OF PROPANE IN YOUR TANK.

A severe winter storm can hinder additional propane deliveries.

STAY IN REGULAR CONTACT WITH YOUR PROVIDER.

Doing so gives you both enough time to arrange a refill long before you run out of propane.

GET IN TOUCH WITH YOUR PROPANE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU RUN OUT OF PROPANE.

A propane provider or qualified service technician must check your system for leaks before turning the gas back on.

USE ENERGY WISELY.

Winter storms and the resulting inaccessible roads may make propane deliveries impossible for several days. Use energy conservatively by setting your programmable thermostat to as low as is comfortable — possibly a few degrees cooler at night and when nobody is home. Close off any rooms that don’t need to be heated.

KEEP THE PATH TO YOUR PROPANE TANK CLEAR.

A clear path helps the delivery drivers get to your tank easily, fill it quickly, and move on to the next customer.

ALLOW YOUR APPLIANCES TO VENT PROPERLY.

If it is safe to do so, clear snow and ice away from outdoor vents, chimneys, and flues to prevent blocking any ventilation.

CLEAR SNOW AND ICE FROM AROUND YOUR PROPANE TANK.

This includes regulators, regulator vents, piping, tubing, and valves. Use a broom instead of a shovel to prevent damage to your propane system components.

IF YOU SMELL GAS, TAKE THE RIGHT STEPS.

Immediately put out all smoking materials and other open flames. Do not operate lights, appliances, telephones, or cellphones. Get everyone away from the home or area where you suspect gas is leaking. If safe to do so, close or shut off the main gas supply valve by turning it to the right (clockwise). Call your propane provider immediately from a safe place to report the leak. If you cannot reach your propane provider, call 911. Do not return to the area until a propane provider, emergency responder, or qualified service technician gives the OK.

NEVER USE A STOVE OR BRING YOUR GAS GRILL INDOORS FOR SPACE HEATING, EVEN DURING A POWER OUTAGE.

Only use appliances indoors that are designed and approved for that purpose. Never store, place, or use a propane cylinder indoors or in enclosed areas. Never use outdoor propane-powered appliances indoors or in enclosed areas. Without proper ventilation, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) fumes produced can build up.

OPERATE PORTABLE GENERATORS WITH CAUTION.

Never use a portable generator (gasoline, diesel, or propane) indoors or in enclosed areas. Doing so can result in carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning or death.

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Propane Safety For High Snowfall

Accumulated snow and ice have the potential to damage your propane system. While you can’t predict the weather, you can take measures to plan for them.

Winters in high snowfall areas can produce some of the most magnificent scenery, but they can also be the most challenging. Accumulated snow and ice have the potential to damage your propane system. While you can’t predict the first snowstorm or hazardous weather condition, you are in the best position to take measures to plan for them. Download the brochure below to learn more.

Safeguard Snowfall Brochure

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Propane Powered Generators for Emergency Preparedness

According to Matthew Stein, who authored When Disaster Strikes, a guidebook for emergency planning, “Everyone should have at least one small, backup generator on hand to provide power for short-term emergencies and power outages.” This is important for both your safety and your comfort. Having a propane powered generator ready to go when disaster strikes will ensure you are able to keep your refrigerator running so that your food does not go to waste. It will also keep you and your family comfortable, by powering your air conditioning or heating system, as well as lights during the evening hours. A propane powered generator can even be used to power a television or computer during short-term power outages, which is important for getting news updates and important safety alerts from local authorities.

How to Choose the Right Propane Powered Generator for your Home

When it comes to choosing a propane powered generator for your home, it is important to consider your location, budget, and what you want to use your generator for in the case of a power outage. There are two main types of generators, which include permanent and portable options. Depending on your specific needs, the type of generator that will work best for your home will vary.

Permanent Propane Generators

Permanent propane powered generators are permanently installed outside of a residence and are typically powered by either propane or natural gas. As a permanent fixture of your home, this type of generator is wired into your existing electrical system, including a transfer switch that monitors incoming electricity. When a power outage occurs, the transfer switch will automatically disconnect your home from the utility line, connecting to a separate power line from your generator. Thanks to this wiring, when your electricity does go out, you will have your power restored within a matter of seconds. A permanent generator will not only instantly take over in the case of a power outage, it will also have the power needed to keep your entire home running as it normally would.

The main drawback of permanent generators is that they can be quite expensive and additionally require professional installation. However, if you live in an area that has frequent power outages and plan to regularly rely on your generator to power your home, a permanent generator is an excellent option. Permanent generators are also a worthwhile investment for those that live in climates that experience consistent cold and ice during the winter, as they can easily keep your furnace and hot water heater running in even the harshest conditions.

Portable Propane Powered Generators

If you live in an area that has consistent power and does not suffer from harsh winters, a portable generator may be a better option for your home. Portable generators are ideal for providing power to essential appliances during short term power outages caused by inclement weather. These generators are not wired to your home, and therefore must be connected to the appliances that you want to power by using extension cords.

Portable propane powered generators are an affordable option that will keep you and your family safe and comfortable during an emergency, without requiring the investment of a permanent generator. Depending on the model that you opt for, a portable generator should be able to power your fridge, some lighting, and a computer or television. They will not, however, be able to keep larger utilities such as heating or cooling systems or hot water heaters running.

Looking for a Propane Supplier?

If you are planning to purchase or have recently purchased a propane powered generator, and are in need of a propane supplier in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, or Tennessee, Lin Gas is here to help. Contact us today to learn more.

Our hearts go out to all who have been affected by the recent hurricanes in the Southern United States and the Caribbean.

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Cost Effective Residential Propane Upgrades for Homeowners

Did you know that residential buildings including single family homes, town houses, condominiums, and apartments make up approximately 20% of energy consumption within the United States? This residential energy consumption is not only a cause of harmful greenhouse gas emissions and environmental concerns but is also a major expense for households across the country.

In response to environmental and economic concerns surrounding residential energy consumption, new energy regulations and standards have emerged—drastically cutting energy consumption in new homes—saving households money and reducing their carbon footprint.

For owners of existing homes, new regulations and standards mean it is time to trade in existing systems for newer, energy-efficient models. However, it can be difficult to know which upgrades will be the most cost effective in the long term. Fortunately, a recent report from research group Newport Partners LLC examined a wide range of energy efficiency measures (EEMs). They evaluated their economic, environmental, and energy performance to create a guide for homeowners and contractors deciding on which EEMs to prioritize when upgrading and remodeling existing residences.

Top Ten Energy Upgrades

The report evaluated the overall payback of each measure to determine the most cost-effective energy upgrades. In order to determine payback, the researchers evaluated the amount of time it took for the owner to recover the upfront cost of purchase and installation based on annual savings on energy expenses and the annual savings of CO2 emissions savings.

In the end, the report found that the ten most cost-effective upgrades included:

  1. Air sealing
  2. Attic Insulation
  3. Duct Sealing
  4. Window Replacement
  5. Fireplace
  6. Lighting
  7. Clothes Dryer
  8. A/C Unit
  9. Propane Furnace
  10. Tankless Water Heater

Energy & Cost Efficient Upgrades with Residential Propane

Several of the top upgrades identified by this study—cutting both emissions and costs for homeowners—included appliances and systems powered by propane. Below are three of the top upgrades powered by propane that households can make to cut their electric bill and carbon footprint.

Propane Clothes Dryer

The report found that opting for a propane dryer over a traditional electric model was a top saver of both emissions and electric costs. This was especially true in several cooler climates in the North East, in which payback took 5-6 years, saving <0.1 to 0.3 metric tons of Co2 in annual emissions.

Propane Water Heating

Switching from an electric water heater to a tankless propane model was also proven to be a major source of savings for homeowners. The researchers found that installing a tankless unit had a payback of only five years. Even better, the report found that this was one of the top switches homeowners can make to reduce emissions, with annual savings on C02 at 0.6 metric tons. Researchers also found that tankless propane heaters had almost double the life expectancy of electric models, while also producing hot water at a much faster rate.

Propane Furnace

The report also found numerous benefits for households upgrading to high-efficiency propane heating options. Data showed that homeowners in the Northeast that replaced an oil furnace with a high-efficiency propane model saw payback in as little as one year, while also drastically cutting C02 emissions, with savings offsetting gasoline consumption of 213 gallons annually. The research also showed that switching from a standard propane furnace to a high-efficiency propane unit had a one-year payback for homeowners in the Northeast.

Ready to upgrade?

If you are ready to see how much you can save by switching to propane power, LinGas is here to assist with your residential propane needs! We have locations serving Henderson, Bicknell, Livermore, Elkton, Evansville, Dale and the surrounding area. Contact us today at 1-800-850-4380 or visit us at https://lingas.com/ to learn more about using our residential propane services to power your home.

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Three Reasons to Power Your Construction Site with Propane

If you are in the construction industry, you are familiar with the need for a consistent and reliable power source for your crew. This is especially important when working on a site that is not yet connected to an established electrical grid.

When it comes to keeping your construction projects on schedule, no power source rivals propane for providing efficient, affordable, and reliable power to your site. Propane has many potential applications for powering your construction projects, with uses including power generation, site heating, hybrid lighting, and fuel for machinery used in flooring, roofing and other specialties.

Below we will detail three of the top reasons those in the construction industry turn to propane time and time again for an effective power source that gets the job done.

1. Heating

There are many reasons that a reliable heat source, like a propane heater, is critical to construction sites during the winter months. One of the top benefits of portable propane heaters is that they keep your worksite comfortable during even the coldest days. Keeping your crew warm and comfortable despite the elements will result in improved morale as well as a better work flow. Additionally, there are regulations in many states that require workers have access to heat on construction sites when the temperature dips below certain temperatures.

Aside from keeping you and your team comfortable and healthy through the winter months, propane heaters are also critical in maintaining warm temperatures that are needed in order to perform certain tasks in the building process. Some of these tasks that require warmer temperatures include drywalling, painting, and the installation of certain materials. Instead of letting a dip in temperatures derail your schedule, the consistent and reliable heat provided by propane heaters will keep your team on track, no matter how frightful the weather outside may be.

2. Generators

Propane generators are an excellent solution for construction crews working on sites that are not yet hooked up to the electrical grid. These portable generators may look small, but they can fuel every aspect of your site including your most powerful tools—no matter how long your days may be.

Portable propane powered generators are also easy to use and easy to store thanks to their compact nature. Even better, propane provides an affordable and effective alternative to gasoline powered generators that are often unreliable, unstable, and can result in spillage during the refueling process.

3. Lighting

Hybrid solar/propane lighting installations can keep your work site running well past sunset. These lighting towers are powered by solar panels but include an onboard backup system powered by propane that will keep your worksite well lit, even when the panels are not generating power. This lighting system is not only extremely effective but is also a cost-effective choice compared to diesel powered lighting systems. In fact, studies show that making the switch from diesel-powered lighting to solar/propane hybrid systems resulted in approximately $5,800 in annual savings for systems running 70 hours a week.

These are just a few of the reasons to consider powering your construction site with propane. To learn more about the many benefits of making the switch to propane, contact us today at one of our convenient locations serving Henderson, KY, Bicknell, IN, Livermore, KY, Elkton, KY, Evansville, IN, Dale, IN and the surrounding area.

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Benefits of Choosing a Propane Water Heater

According the the U.S. Department of Energy, water heating is the second largest homeowner expense — making up approximately 14-18 percent of the average household’s utility bills. In fact, the average American family spends anywhere from $400 to $600 on water heating alone each year.

If you are ready to cut down on water heating costs and opt for a better performing system that is environmentally-friendly, it may be time to make the switch to a propane water heater.

Propane water heaters are available in both tank and tankless models — each of which have different benefits over electric and oil models — depending on your family’s needs.

Here are three of the top reasons that either of these propane water heater models is the right choice for your household.

1. More Efficient

If you opt for a storage tank propane heater, you will save space with a smaller tank that out performs its larger electric counterpart. In fact, a 40-gallon propane option will provide your household with the same supply of hot water as a larger 50-gallon electric model.

Unlike traditional water heaters that rely on electricity, propane tankless water heaters provide your home with an endless hot water supply that is heated as you use it—ensuring your hot shower is never cut short. These models heat water only as it is needed for a more efficient hot water supply that can power multiple appliances at once. Even better, their tankless construction can save you anywhere from nine to 16 square feet of storage space!

2. Save Money

Making the switch to a propane water heater is guaranteed to save you money on utilities. The savings will vary depending on the model you choose. Propane storage tank water heaters save the average household 13 to 20 percent on energy costs each year when compared with electric or oil options. Meanwhile, tankless options save the average family over $150 dollars annually when compared to electric options.

3. Cut Down Your Carbon Footprint

Since much of the electricity used to power electric water heaters comes from coal power, choosing a propane-powered option is a much better option for the environment. In fact, making the switch to propane water heating models can your household’s carbon dioxide emissions by 35 to 60 percent, depending on the option that you choose.

Propane storage tank options have been shown to reduce emissions by 1,700 pounds annually when compared to electric models, while tankless options have been shown to produce about half the amount of emissions as electric models.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Ready to make the switch to a more efficient, environmentally-friendly, money saving water heating option? Propane may be the right choice for your household. If you want to learn more about residential propane services in Henderson, Elkton, Owensboro, Bicknell, Dale, or the surrounding areas, our family owned and operated business is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how switching to propane can save you money, while supplying your household with an endless supply of hot water.

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Using Propane to Fuel Outdoor Fun This Spring

Winter is finally over, and the long, warm days of spring are here to stay. As you spend more time outdoors this season, propane is an excellent fuel for transforming your backyard into a comfortable outdoor living space for friends and family. You may think propane can only be used for powering your grill, but this clean and efficient fuel source has a variety of outdoor applications that will make your backyard the place to be this season! Below, we share four of our favorite outdoor applications for propane.

1. Outdoor Fire Pits & Fireplaces

The American Society of Landscape Architects reports that outdoor fireplaces and firepits are the most popular outdoor landscape design feature requested by clients, and we aren’t surprised! An outdoor fire pit provides a wonderful place for groups to gather and make memories on a warm spring evening.

Building a traditional fire can be time-consuming and quite messy with smoke, soot, and ash. However propane-powered fire pits and fireplaces provide the warmth and ambiance of a real flame with the convenience of an on-and-off switch—allowing you to enjoy more time with friends and family.

2. Pools & Hot Tubs

As the weather warms up you will be ready to get outside and enjoy your swimming pool or hot tub. However, with unpredictable spring temperatures, a consistent and affordable heating source is essential! Propane is an excellent choice for heating outdoor pools and spas and has been shown to be more effective and efficient than electric options.

3. Attractive Lighting Options

Who doesn’t love a little bit of springtime ambiance when spending time in the backyard? Whether you are hosting a family dinner, a fun-filled game night with friends, or enjoying some relaxing alone time in your outdoor space, flame-lit lighting options will add an extra cozy feel to your yard. Propane is an easy and affordable way to power outdoor lights – and, as a bonus, they will work during power outages.

4. Outdoor Kitchens

When it comes to outdoor cooking, propane can fuel a lot more than just your standard grill! If you love to cook outdoors and are considering an outdoor kitchen space for entertaining, propane is an affordable and efficient alternative to running new gas lines. Opting for propane-powered appliances also allows you flexibility while setting up your outdoor cooking space, instead of forcing you to depend on electrical outlets as you design.

If you are ready to get outdoors and enjoy your backyard after a long winter, you may want to consider some of these applications of propane. Whether you want to power a fire pit or fireplace, heat a pool or spa, power decorative lighting, or fuel an outdoor kitchen space, our residential propane services have you covered. If you are interested in learning more, contact us at 800-850-4380.

We have propane service locations in Princeton, Dale, Evansville, Elkton, Livermore, Henderson, and Bicknell.

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Did You Know: Propane Is Used on 660,000 U.S. Farms?

Propane fuel is the nation’s most common liquefied petroleum gas. That’s because it’s an extremely versatile energy source. Approximately 90% of the United States’ propane supply is produced domestically, while 70% of the remaining supply is imported from Mexico and Canada. Approximately equal amounts of propane come from the refining of crude oil and from natural gas processing. Propane fuel is a readily available and secure source of energy whose environmental benefits continue to be widely recognized. Here are some propane facts that you may not have previously been aware of.

First, propane uses on the farm are some of the most versatile. Propane can be used for crop drying, fruit ripening, space heating, refrigeration, flame cultivation, and operation of various farm engines including irrigation pumps, tractors, generators, and weeders.

Aside from farming, propane energy is used by approximately 60 million people in the United States. In fact, it’s the most widely used source of alternative fuel. An estimated 4 million vehicles worldwide are running on propane fuel, and 350,000 of those vehicles are being driven here in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center.

When it comes to recreational activities, propane is used by countless travelers and vacationers in recreational vehicles and for camping uses including gas grills, generators, and outdoor gas lights. Additionally, millions of people are already utilizing propane to fuel heaters for pools, patios, whirlpools and saunas.

Industrially, there are numerous businesses and commercial establishments that take advantage of all the benefits propane energy has to offer. Over 1 million hotels, laundromats, restaurants, and production factories use propane, many times the same way a homeowner does — for heating and cooling air, water, cooking, barbecuing, drying clothes, refrigeration, lighting, and more. Industrial factories also use it for space heating, soldering, cutting, annealing, vulcanizing, and more.

Overall, propane is an extremely useful and versatile form of energy. Its invention can be traced back to 1910 in Pittsburgh to a man named Dr. Walter Snelling. It has only continued to rise in popularity since its discovery, and for good reason — it has countless uses. From farming to residential and industrial uses, propane has something to offer for everyone.

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