Efficient Energy Solutions with LPG for Hot Weather


What is LPG and Why is it Worth Considering?

Liquid Petroleum Gas or LPG, is a versatile fuel derived from refined petroleum or natural gas. Made primarily of propane and butane, LPG is a potent source of energy with high calorific value, delivering energy quickly and efficiently to a wide range of household applications, from cooking and heating to water heating.  One of its most attractive qualities is that it burns much cleaner than coal and other fossil fuels commonly used for electricity, making it a more environmentally-friendly choice as well as a cost-saving solution.

In South Africa, electricity rates have been rising sharply with a further increase expected in 2025, leading many households to consider alternative options. While electricity is available in urban areas, its cost and unreliability – due to load shedding and unscheduled power outages – make LPG an attractive option. As LPG is stored in tanks rather than relying on the electric grid, it also serves as a highly reliable backup energy source. Using LPG affords you the significant advantage of lowering your energy bills while using a cleaner energy source.

Energy-Saving Tips for Summer with LPG Appliances

In summer, South African households can take advantage of LPG’s efficiency to keep energy costs down. Below are some tips for using LPG in ways that promote energy savings without sacrificing comfort:

Outdoor Cooking with LPG Grills: Using an LPG-powered grill outdoors is not only a fun way to cook but also reduces indoor cooling needs, as it prevents additional heat from building up in the kitchen. LPG braais also heat up quickly, saving fuel and time and offering a convenient way to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle that South Africa is known for.

Cooking with an LPG-powered braai is a greener choice compared to the traditional coal, charcoal or wood, thanks to its cleaner combustion and reduced environmental impact. Choosing LPG for outdoor cooking is not just about convenience – it’s a sustainable choice that aligns with a commitment to reducing your carbon footprint.

Water Heating on Demand: LPG water heaters provide hot water only when needed, which saves a considerable amount of energy compared to conventional electric geysers that maintain a constant water temperature in large storage tanks. Since heating water accounts for a substantial part of energy costs, switching to an LPG-powered water heater can provide year-round savings.

Outdoor Heating During Cooler Evenings: As summer days give way to cooler nights, LPG heaters can keep outdoor spaces comfortable. By using an LPG-powered heater, you can extend your enjoyment of outdoor areas well into the evening, without needing to rely on the more costly electric heating options.

How LPG Can Lower Your Summer Energy Bills

Using LPG in the summer months provides a range of financial benefits. For example, LPG’s high energy output means that it heats and cools quickly, making it a more efficient option for many household needs. Rather than relying on slow electric stoves that draw continuous power, an LPG stove delivers an instant, powerful flame, reducing cooking times and therefore lowering energy consumption.

Moreover, LPG water heaters are tankless, so they only heat water when it’s needed. This on-demand system saves energy by eliminating the need to keep a tank of water heated at all times. When used as a complement to solar water heaters or electric systems, LPG-powered appliances can further reduce reliance on the grid, adding up to substantial cost savings throughout the year.

Switching to LPG also offers savings as refills cost less per energy unit compared to electricity rates in urban areas. By purchasing in bulk or opting for larger tanks, households can store more fuel for extended use, helping to avoid high monthly electric bills and reducing the frequency of refills.

The Environmental Benefits of Choosing LPG

LPG’s environmental impact is significantly lower than that of electricity generated from coal. As South Africa continues to struggle with emissions challenges due to coal-based energy production, LPG provides a cleaner-burning alternative that reduces both carbon dioxide and other pollutants. For households looking to lessen their environmental footprint, LPG offers an eco-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice convenience or efficiency.

LPG is also more efficient in its energy conversion compared to coal-fired electricity. This means that the energy produced by LPG is used more directly in your appliances, while electricity from coal loses significant energy through transmission and conversion. Using LPG at home can thus be part of a broader effort to contribute to cleaner energy practices and reduce demand on the power grid.

In addition to its carbon advantages, LPG does not require the extensive infrastructure of power lines or substations that electric energy requires. This makes LPG a flexible option for diverse locations and preserves the landscape, reducing the environmental costs associated with electricity infrastructure.

Using LPG Year-Round: Summer to Winter

While summer tends to see lower LPG usage due to decreased heating needs, LPG can still be a versatile tool during the warmer months. The portability and flexibility of LPG make it easy to incorporate into a variety of household uses that extend beyond cooking and heating.

For instance, LPG appliances, such as stoves and water heaters, remain efficient throughout the year, allowing households to enjoy consistent energy savings. By using LPG during the summer and using it more intensively in winter, you can create a balanced energy plan that minimises electricity dependence, saves money and reduces your environmental impact.

Safety Considerations When Using LPG

While LPG is safe when used properly, it’s essential to handle it with care. Ensuring that appliances are properly installed and maintained, using certified LPG providers and storing LPG cylinders in well-ventilated areas are important for safety. Regularly checking connections and keeping cylinders upright will minimise risks and ensure safe operation. Modern LPG appliances are built with multiple safety features and when paired with proper usage habits, they provide a secure, stable energy source for any home.

Switch and Save

Switching to LPG as a primary or supplementary energy source offers South African households a viable solution to rising electricity costs, even in summer. From outdoor cooking to water heating and efficient cooking, LPG’s versatility and high energy output make it an ideal year-round choice. Moreover, its environmental benefits and lower emissions provide a greener alternative to coal-based electricity, making LPG a smart choice for sustainability-conscious families. By adopting LPG, households can balance their energy needs while enjoying financial savings and contributing to a cleaner, greener South Africa.

Order your gas online with SimsGas

SimsGas makes online gas ordering a breeze, ensuring you’re ready for all your summer cooking and heating needs. Whether you’re preparing a delicious meal or keeping your spaces cool or cosy, gas offers efficiency, cost savings and reliability. With SimsGas, you can focus on enjoying the best of summer with family and friends while we take care of keeping you fuelled.

Order your LPG Gas online: https://simsgas.co.za/shop/
Phone: 0861 746 7427
Email: jhbsales@simsgas.co.za

We will deliver to your home or business, so order today!
Johannesburg: 011 494 4232
Durban: 031 902 6533
Email: jhbsales@simsgas.co.za