Floridians are lucky when it comes to the winter months. Blizzards are experienced through television, some have no clue how to deal with frost on car windshields (slowly raises hand) and flip flops are totally appropriate- “layering” means jeans, sweater and a trusty scarf.

In Jacksonville, we may not have to worry about below freezing temperatures and abominable snowmen, but that doesn’t mean our thin blood doesn’t react to the low-ish temperatures we experience and quality heating sources are invaluable to toast those flip-flop clad toesies. Looking for a cost effective, flexible and sustainable option to effectively heat your entire household? Propane gas checks off all the boxes. Here’s how you can use it to keep warm this winter.

Fireplaces

There’s something rustic and nostalgic about piling up the wooden logs and using those boy scout acquired skills to get a fire roaring, but what about convenience? Gas powered fireplaces grant access to a clean burning fire with the flip of a switch. You won’t have to worry about sweeping ash, out-of-control fires or breathing in toxic fumes. Propane gas is a non-toxic, EPA approved alternative energy source. According to the EPA, 30 wood burning houses emit more air pollution than 300,000 homes using gas logs.

Pool & Spa heaters

Take a dip in your pool or relax in the hot tub during the winter with a heating source that keeps water at a constant, comfortable temperature year round. Pair that concept with the miracle of clean burning propane gas and you’ll take your heating game to the next level by saving on monthly bills. A gas spa heater may cost a bit more at the initial purchase and installation, but over the long run, you’ll save considerably compared to an electric unit. Gas heaters also reign in efficiency, taking less time to heat up and recover than electric heaters.

Water heaters

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heating can account for 15 to 25 percent of total residential energy usage. We may take instant hot water for granted, but the cost to our wallets and environment is detrimental when considering traditional heating methods, such as electrical. Propane water heaters however, is a progressive step towards reducing the carbon footprint in your home while saving money. Investing in a tankless gas water heater can reduce your monthly energy costs by a whopping 60% compared to standard electric heaters.