So, if you’re thinking of making the switch to something more environmentally friendly, or you want to know more about the different options available for your new country home, we’ve put together some information all about choosing the rural energy that’s right for you.
Choosing the best fuel for your home
With so many rural energy options available, choosing the one that works for you and your lifestyle can seem confusing, but it doesn’t have to be! So, what are the differences between some of the most popular off-grid fuel solutions and how do they work?
Oil is one option for heating and providing you with hot water, but it can be quite costly when it comes to things like installing an oil compatible boiler. It can also have a negative impact on the environment in comparison to other options like LPG*.
A much more popular alternative is Liquefied Petroleum Gas (or LPG for short) which is not only efficient, but versatile too, meaning it can power everything from your hob to your heating.
LPG boilers are generally quieter than their oil equivalents and the process of installing an LPG boiler can also be more affordable. With a higher number of Gas Safe registered engineers than OFTEC (oil boiler installers) technicians, it can be a simpler process for you too**.
Due to LPG producing less ash and soot than oil boilers, maintenance and servicing costs can also be reduced. An LPG boiler saves an average of £800 when buying a new LPG boiler versus a new or replacement oil boiler***, which means you can save money whilst reducing your carbon emissions by up to 16% with LPG versus oil****.
LPG tanks can be installed onto a fixed base in most locations, or if you prefer it to be out of sight, Calor offers an underground option with a discreet green cover and easy access for refilling.
Eco heating options
With all the same functionality as LPG, BioLPG is a great option for those looking for a lower carbon alternative. BioLPG can reduce your carbon emissions by up to 38% compared to oil and 15% compared to standard LPG*****. Made from a blend of waste, residues and sustainably sourced materials, BioLPG works in the same way as LPG, so switching costs aren’t a problem and you can keep the same tank and even the same boiler.
Calor offers a Green Energy Plan where they supply a BioLPG blend (40% BioLPG / 60% LPG) to homeowners, which is an ideal way to support more sustainable energy options whilst not having to compromise on performance.******
Switching to LPG
If you’re already using another fuel but would like to make the transition over to LPG or BioLPG, Calor’s hassle-free switching process makes it is as easy as a few simple steps.
After receiving your free, personalised quote, a Calor energy expert will visit your home to conduct a site survey to find the perfect solution for you. The next step is installing an LPG boiler. For this, you'll need a trusty LPG qualified Installer to fit your new boiler and hook everything up inside. You can find one through Calor’s quote tool, or by using their handy
LPG Boiler Installer tool to find local, Gas Safe registered engineers.
Once you have installed a boiler, Calor will install your chosen storage option. With a range of storage options available from tanks to compact cylinder storage, it’s easy to find an option that fits seamlessly into your home.
Moving to a rural home
Leaving the mains grid can feel daunting but thanks to LPG providers like Calor, switching to off-grid home energy is quite simple. As experts in LPG, Calor can guide you through the process to ensure you get all of the same convenience and benefits of living on the grid.
In addition, Calor also offers the option of auto-ordering, which means you don’t have to worry about your fuel levels getting low and needing to arrange a fuel delivery. A clever content gauge in your Calor LPG tank will continuously monitor your usage and notify Calor when to schedule your next refill.
There are many options when it comes to choosing how to fuel your off-grid rural home. If you are looking to change fuel or to move off-grid, then head to our website for more information about your options:
https://www.calor.co.uk/home-energy/using-lpg/switching-lpg-suppliers
Sources:
*
https://www.boilerguide.co.uk/articles/oil-lpg-pros-cons-costs
**
https://www.boilerguide.co.uk/articles/oil-lpg-pros-cons-costs
***Average boiler savings based on a comparison, conducted by Calor, between LPG boilers and their oil equivalent. Comparative Pricing, 2019.
**** Atlantic Consulting, 2017, a report commissioned by Calor Gas Limited
*****
https://www.calor.co.uk/biolpg - 38% reduction in GHGs (CO2e/ eq function) compared to heating oil. Emission savings calculated based on an allocation of 40% BioLPG and 60% conventional LPG. (Atlantic Consulting, 2017, a report commissioned by Calor Gas Limited.)
******
https://www.calor.co.uk/biolpg
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