ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — As homeowners look for ways to improve comfort and reduce energy costs, many are considering appliance upgrades as part of their home makeover plans.

Energy providers say replacing older appliances with modern, high-efficiency models — especially those powered by propane gas — can help households save money while improving performance in the kitchen and laundry room.

“Upgrading appliances is one of the easiest ways for homeowners to improve energy efficiency without a major renovation,” a spokesperson for Blossman Gas and Appliance said. “Many newer propane gas appliances are designed to use less energy while delivering better performance.”

Older appliances, particularly those more than a decade old, often operate less efficiently than modern models. Newer propane gas ranges, water heaters, clothes dryers and heating systems are designed with improved technology that can reduce energy use while maintaining consistent performance.

Blossman Gas Branch Manager Tim Laster says, “Anytime you replace an electric appliance using 240Vs of electricity with a propane powered appliance operating on 120Vs is going to reduce your electricity consumption, and propane is less expensive than electricity.

“A cooking range, clothes dryer and a water heater all use 240Vs of electricity. One kWh of electricity equals approximately 3,412 BTUs of energy, while propane equals approximately 91,500 BTUs of energy. Doing the math, it takes almost 27 kWh of electricity to equal one gallon of propane relating to BTUs.”

Propane gas ranges remain a popular choice for home cooks because they allow for precise temperature control and instant heat adjustments. Many homeowners also choose gas water heaters, which can heat water more quickly and recover faster than electric models, and laundry rooms are another area where appliance upgrades can make a difference. Propane gas-powered dryers dry clothes more quickly, which can help reduce energy consumption and shorten laundry time.

Energy experts say replacing aging appliances can also improve home value and reliability. New appliances are typically quieter, more efficient and designed to meet updated energy standards.

Home improvement activity often increases in the spring and summer months, making it a common time for homeowners to evaluate appliances that may be nearing the end of their lifespan.

Energy providers recommend homeowners check the age and performance of major appliances, including water heaters, stoves, dryers and heating systems, to determine whether an upgrade could improve efficiency and lower long-term operating costs. For many homeowners, appliance upgrades offer a practical way to modernize their homes while improving comfort and energy performance.