Lincoln, NE (October 11, 2005) – The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) released a survey today which found that the popularity of radiant floor systems is gaining in the Midwest by 31 percent, with 23 percent of builders surveyed planning to “increase” or “greatly increase” their use of radiant floor systems in the next 12 months. Builders cited radiant floor systems’ ability to provide even heat and cleaner air with lower operating costs as the primary factors for choosing them over competing systems.
“The survey shows that propane and natural gas continue to provide builders with the highest level of comfort and reliability, regardless of the heating system they choose,” says PERC representative Jim Hitzemann.
The finding contrasts with the number of propane appliances builders say they would use if propane was the primary heating fuel source for their home. When given the choice, 67 percent of builders surveyed said they would use propane for water heaters, outdoor appliances, and fireplaces. Of those surveyed, 53 percent said that their kitchen appliances would also use propane.
“The survey findings show that builders understand the total home benefit of propane,” added Hitzemann. “Within the multi-unit sector, given the impact of energy costs on overall operating costs, it appears that sector is realizing the cost-savings benefits propane can provide when used to fuel multiple appliances. The propane industry will continue to work closely with residential builders to help improve their understanding of propane’s value beyond home heating applications.”
About the Survey
The Web-based survey was conducted by the NAHB Research Center, a subsidiary of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), on behalf of the Propane Education & Research Council in August 2005. A nationally representative sample of 302 builders participated in the survey.
For additional information about heating with propane, please visit www.usepropane.com.
For more information regarding the survey, please visit www.propanecouncil.org.