Propane Furnace vs. Electric Space Heater
Hi All, I was wondering if I could save money by using space heaters instead of the furnace on the about 7-10 days a month I can't use the heat pumps down here in SC during winter. Which costs les...
Forum Discussion
It depends on the cost of the propane, the cost of the electricity and the amount of heat you need. I find that if I can't keep things comfortable with two space heaters the furnace comes on. If I need to heat the area quickly (like first thing in the morning) the furnace comes on. If I am just keeping things warm during the day and into the evening, when you get a big boost from solar heat gain. the space heaters can do the job. You get a certain amount of heat energy for both propane and electric resistance heat. When electricity costs 10 cents per kilowatt hour, the break-even to propane in direct cost per BTU is $2.40 per gallon. A gallon of propane weighs 4.7 lbs, if you measure by the 20 lb tank.
So, presuming that you can heat your space to your comfort level with space heaters, you need to find out what your cost per KWH for electricity is and compare that to your cost for propane, and apply that to the ratio of 10 cents per KWH equals $2.40 per gallon, and see where you are at. All other things being equal, like your furnace is in good working condition and you don't have to drive fifty miles to fill up your propane tanks.
Brian
So, presuming that you can heat your space to your comfort level with space heaters, you need to find out what your cost per KWH for electricity is and compare that to your cost for propane, and apply that to the ratio of 10 cents per KWH equals $2.40 per gallon, and see where you are at. All other things being equal, like your furnace is in good working condition and you don't have to drive fifty miles to fill up your propane tanks.
Brian
