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Washing machines, dishwashers, tumble driers, glass ceramic hobs... Numerous domestic appliances use propane gas as their energy source. Some of them are still a bit more expensive, but their everyday use is economical and offers other advantages that should be taken into account.

Some examples

Due to their long-term saving characteristics and the fact that using them has a lower environmental impact, when purchasing new household appliances it is worth evaluating the possibility of using gas as a source of energy. This may help you to make a better choice.

Bithermal washing machines, equipped with one entry point for cold water and another for hot water, are amongst the most advanced gas household appliances. Depending on the programme and temperature selected, they take cold water directly from the mains or hot water from the gas boiler. That way, by not having to heat the water, these washing machines complete their washing cycles more quickly, which results in an energy saving. Gas dishwashers also use pre-heated water in their washing cycles, which leads to a 35% saving in energy costs.

Reductions in consumption are bigger with tumble driers, the cost of a cycle may be up to 60% less with similar features to those offered by electric driers. Meanwhile, gas ceramic hobs allow more precise heat control and use half the energy of their electric counterparts. The saving comes from the better energy response of gas, which can increase the temperature of the hob faster and in a more controlled fashion, but it is also due to the fact that they have two cooking areas, an active one and a passive one. The first works whilst the hob is switched on and the second, when the burner is switched off. That way you use the residual heat.

Where gas ovens are concerned, their characteristics are similar to electric ones, but foods do not dry out when they are baked, since the steam produced during gas combustion ensures that foods remain moist. 

The high calorific value of gas can also be used for cooling, consequently it is also possible to find the very latest fridges and chest freezers on the market using gas.

Installation

In order to install a gas household appliance you just have to bring the gas inlet close to the appliance. Although this involves minor work, it should be done by qualified engineers. Flexible metal pipes, rather than the traditional rubber ones that have a limited lifespan, are used to transport the gas to the gas appliances. These special pipes are heat resistant and have a built-in safety valve. 

For correct maintenance and functioning of gas appliances it is important to always keep vents open in the rooms where they are installed; to forbid children from switching them on; follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and other guidelines for use that common sense dictates. As with other household appliances, it is advisable to make sure that they are turned off when they are not required and it is essential to have them repaired by qualified experts that have the necessary certificates. As with other appliances, they must be officially approved by the Department of Industry and Energy and must display the manufacturer’s logo.

New gas household appliances are increasingly capable of adapting to varied needs. Furthermore, using gas means that the consumer is not limited by the general demand.

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