Answer 1: Yes, using a propane-powered generator. However, such generators are only about 10%, give or take, efficient. On average, local power generation stations tend to be around 40% efficient. It would require powering the local generator with diesel to begin to approach 40% efficiency.
Propane, itself, is usually fairly cost-effective in terms of its power potential... but "potential" is the operative word, there. A gallon of propane contains around 27 kilowatt hours (KWH) of energy potential; and so as long as the cost of propane isn't too high, it can compete well with the typical cost of electricity from the local power company. For example, even at a propane cost of $4.00/gallon, the 27KWH of energy potential is only around fifteen cents; and that's right around, give or take, what PG&E, for example, is charging for electricity, per KWH, in California.
However, using propane to run a generator that's only 10% to 20% (actually, very few of them are even close to being as high as 20%) efficient means that each gallon of propane used to generate electricity actually becomes quite inefficient. If a propane generator is only 10% efficient, then suddenly the 27KWH of energy potential in that gallon of propane becomes only 2.7KWH. At that rate, the cost per KWH of electricity output of the propane-powered generator skyrockets to around $1.50/KWH (compared with regular electricity's cost of only fifteen cents per KWH, give or take... only one-tenth of the cost of running the propane generator).
Of course, different efficiencies of different generators, and the actual costs of both propane and regular electricity in various locales, manifestly affects these numbers. Everyone's mileage will, of course, vary. There arre also, now, some permanent (as opposed to portable) generators that are for more than just backup; and some of them are a bit more efficient (though still not enough to make propane electricity generation tuly cost effective).
The cost of the generator, too, must be considered. Assuming it lasted x number of years, then you'd have to amortize its cost over those years (factoring-in depreciation, of course). So, then, the amortized -- and even if depreciated -- cost of the generator must also be considered.
So, yes, you can make electricity from propane...
...but at a not-insignficant cost; a cost that basically makes it not cost effective.
Finally, there's the carbon footprint to consider. Even though propane is very eco-friendly, and its burning generally causes fairly low carbon emissions, it's so inefficient in an electrical generator that it can actually begin to approach the carbon footprint of a coal-burning electrical generation plant!
It's simply not either cost effective, or ecologically sound, to use propane to generate electricity. It's fine in a pinch -- in an emergency -- but not as a permanent, normative means of generating electricity. Many of those in the northeast United States who lost electricity because of hurricane Sandy, and whose electricity took weeks to restore, rushed-out and bought generators of varying sizes, powered variously by propane, gasoline, diesel, and even bio-diesel (essentially, used cooking oil). They work, just fine, but all of them will tell you that their pocketbooks and wallets will be much happier when the regular electricity is restored.
To convert from propane heat to electric heat, you would need to install an electric heating system such as electric baseboard heaters, ductless mini-split heat pumps, or electric furnaces. This may involve removing the propane heating equipment and making modifications to your home's electrical system. It's also important to consider the cost of electricity versus propane to determine the long-term cost-effectiveness of the switch. Consulting with a qualified HVAC professional is recommended for this conversion.
It is not recommended to convert a potbelly stove into a propane stove, as this could be dangerous and may void any warranties. It is best to purchase a propane stove that is designed for that purpose.
The heat combustion of paraffin produces less heat energy compared to propane because propane has a higher energy content per unit mass. Propane releases more energy per carbon atom compared to paraffin during combustion, making it a more efficient fuel for heating. Additionally, propane burns cleaner with lower emissions compared to paraffin.
The heat and light produced when burning propane come from the chemical reaction between propane and oxygen. This reaction releases energy in the form of heat and light as the propane molecules break apart and combine with oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water vapor.
Propane itself does not conduct heat; however, when burnt, it releases heat energy that can then be conducted through a material in contact with the flame or hot surface.
The heat capacity of liquid propane is approximately 1.87 J/gĀ°C. This value represents the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of one gram of propane by 1 degree Celsius.
Heaters typically use electricity or fuel sources such as natural gas, propane, or oil to generate heat. Electric heaters convert electrical energy into heat, while fuel-based heaters burn the fuel to produce heat.
It is not recommended to put an electric insert in a propane fireplace as they are designed for different types of fuel sources. If you are looking to convert your propane fireplace to electric, it is best to consult with a professional to discuss your options and ensure a safe and effective conversion.
Propane are the best, they throw out a lot of heat
Heat. Electric blankets are simply a resistance coil, which convert electrical energy to heat.
Central heat may run on gas, oil, propane, electric, geothermal or solar.
heat(useful energy) and sound(waste energy)
no
Propane will save you quit a bit over electric.
Flashlights convert electric energy to light energy and heat energy.
It is converted to heat first; this heat is then used to produce superheated steam. The pressure of the steam is what drives the electric generators.
Yes as electric is slow recovery and cost a fortune
Most homes are heated using electrical energy, natural gas, or propane. Electric heating sources include baseboard heaters, electric furnaces, and heat pumps. Natural gas or propane is commonly used for furnaces, boilers, and water heaters.