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vendredi 28 novembre 2014

The Propane Alternative For Homeowners

By Cath Buhr


If you are one of the many Americans concerned about protecting our environment, you might be researching various types of fuel or energy. Many common sources of energy can be quite harmful to the environment, but there are a few that are readily accessible and less harmful. Propane is one energy option that can help you reduce your environmental impact, as well as helping reduce energy costs.

While coal has been a dominant fuel source in the United States for more than a century, the effect on the environment is highly negative. Every year, more than four million tons of CO2 ends up in our atmosphere because of the burning of coal. While you might debate whether or not this is contributing to climate change, this coal pollution does considerable harm to those with lung issues, such as people with asthma, COPD and other lung diseases.

Of course coal isn't our only common fuel source, natural gas accounts for about 27 percent of yearly energy generation. When natural gas pipes are well-maintained, natural gas can be an excellent fuel source. However, if leaks occur, this releases methane into the atmosphere and scientists have found that methane is even more harmful for the atmosphere than carbon dioxide, as it traps heat far more efficiently, contributing to climate change.

While nuclear power is an option that emits none of these toxic greenhouse gases, it certainly has its drawbacks. The waste produced at a nuclear power plant has to be stored carefully for more than 1,000 years, and building nuclear power plants is extremely expensive. The maintenance of the nuclear power plant also is quite high, even though the energy is produced more efficiently and far more cheaply than with coal. Of course, there also is always the possibility of a problem with a nuclear reactor, although natural gas and coal explosions can be devastating as well.

Solar power is an option that is extremely safe, as is wind power. Neither is a finite resource, so you never have to worry about running out of sunlight or wind. In addition, these sources don't produce greenhouse gases. While solar panels are gaining popularity, wind and solar power are not yet a common option for the majority of American households, and the start-up costs can be very high.

Propane can be an excellent source of household fuel, and quite cost effective. While it's a byproduct of natural gas and petroleum refining, propane is considered a green fuel source and produces half the amount of carbon dioxide as coal. Some Ohio propane companies, such as Thrifty Propane, allow you to pre-buy propane when the price is very low, so this fuel source also can be extremely cost-effective. If you do need Ohio propane, Maryland propane or Pennsylvania propane, consider talking to the staff at Thrifty Propane. They offer many specials throughout the year as well as cost-cutting programs for their customers.




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