Between electric, natural gas, and propane heating, there has always been a lot of chatter about which one is the best. While heating with any of these fuel sources can be efficient with the right equipment and the most up-to-date home, propane often gets the worst reputation of the three simply because it is not used as often. Only about one percent of homes use propane for heating purposes, and if you happen to be one of the people in this category, it is best to get to know a few facts. Here are a few of the biggest myths about home heating with propane and the real truths you should know as a homeowner.

Myth: Dealing with a propane tank on your property is hazardous.

Fact: Having a tank of propane on your property is relatively safe as long as you always follow precautions. The tanks are built and equipped with several safety features that help to prevent safety hazards, such as pressure release valves to eliminate excess pressure if the tank is overfilled or the gas inside expands. Even though propane tanks can explode if they are exposed to both excessive heat during a fire and penetration by force, it is actually a rare occurrence without deliberate human interference. In fact, propane tanks are about 20 times more puncture proof than tanks that house gasoline.

Myth: Propane cannot be used for home heating without supplied electricity.

Fact: It is true that some components of your home heating system may rely on electric power to function, such as the blower unit or the thermostat. However, one of the benefits of propane is it does not have to have electric to heat your home. Unlike natural gas that has to be funneled to the heat system with an electric pump, propane does not. Therefore, even during a power outage you can still have heat with most types of propane heating units.

Myth: Propane is one of the most expensive heating methods.

Fact: Even though propane can be a little higher per gallon than natural gas, it actually can be just as efficient, especially with modern home eating systems. This is because propane burns at a steady and even consistency, even hotter than natural gas. Therefore, it can take less propane to power a heat system in a lot of cases.

By understanding the facts about propane heating, it is easy to see why this fuel source is just as good as any other. If you have questions, concerns, or would just like more information, be sure to talk to a propane company, like Apollo Propane Inc, for clarification.