LPG – The Origin Blog https://www.originenergy.com.au/blog A place to learn about Origin, energy and the environment Thu, 07 Nov 2024 08:58:26 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 The ultimate guide to cleaning your BBQ https://www.originenergy.com.au/blog/clean-your-bbq-guide/ Tue, 29 Oct 2024 05:12:00 +0000 https://www.originenergy.com.au/?p=15004 Cleaning your BBQ doesn't need to be a headache. Here's the ultimate guide to making sure your BBQ is party-ready.

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There’s nothing quite like the summer entertaining season in Australia. Good friends, some fresh Aussie fare and a few drinks combine to create lazy evenings and perfect weekends. Running a clean outdoor kitchen is critical. You want to be party-ready at all times, but spending hours slaving over the cleaning is no one’s idea of a good time.

So how can you keep the BBQ slick and sanity with minimal effort? We’ve compiled Australia’s top tips on everything from brushes to beer and potatoes. Here’s how to clean a BBQ properly without breaking a sweat.

What happens if you cook on a dirty BBQ?

There are a few reasons why cooking on a dirty BBQ is a terrible idea. The one at the top of every entertainer’s mind is committing the worst food foul – food that smells and tastes like last week’s left-behinds. Fishy snags or prawny haloumi, anyone?

For health and hygiene reasons, you want to keep it clean because overflowing grease traps or animal fats building up on the grill are known to attract vermin. Also, a drip tray full of oil is a fire hazard, and burning oil under a BBQ can be extremely dangerous.

From the hip-pocket perspective, a BBQ that’s not well maintained may not live for long. You should be able to get at least 10 good years out of your BBQ, minimum. And lastly, leave it long enough and it’s inevitable that you will end up spending a very long time cleaning it – because it will eventually need some love.

When should you clean your BBQ?

A quick wipe down with a paper towel has its place, but a bit of extra elbow grease is better. You should clean your BBQ:

  1. When you buy it
  2. After you BBQ
  3. Quick once-over before firing it up again
  4. Once-yearly deep clean

Cleaning tools you’ll need

Here’s a simple checklist of what you’ll want to keep in your cleaning kit. If you have a cupboard under your BBQ, most of these should fit right in.

  • Trough or bucket big enough for your hotplates
  • Metal scraper
  • Gloves
  • Scouring pads
  • Wire bristle brush (for rust only)
  • Aluminium foil
  • Paper towel
  • Cotton cloths
  • Non-paper kitty litter or Fat-sorb

Cleaning products for your BBQ

Most manufacturers recommend warm soapy water to clean your BBQ. But, if you’re looking for a few clever natural hacks, you can also use:

  • Vinegar and baking soda – for lifting grime and removing rust.
  • Coffee bath for grill grates and utensils – just brew it up and soak in the sink or a bucket.
  • Onions are known for their antibacterial qualities – rub a half onto a hot plate before cooking.
  • Lemons – slice in half, rub in salt, and wipe over grill to help sterilise it.
  • Potato – slice in half and rub on BBQ to help create a non-stick surface.

How to prep a new BBQ

  1. Remove any manufacturer’s labels and protective plastic film.
  2. Remove any manufacturer’s labels and protective plastic film.
  3. Give the grill and flat plates a scrub with a cloth and warm soapy water.
  4. Soap up and polish focusing on the parts exposed to high heat. You can use warm soapy water for this, or if you are lucky enough to have a stainless-steel BBQ – then you can use a special detergent for stainless steel BBQs. Polish with a cloth or paper towels and you should be ready to roll.
  5. Rinse and dry it thoroughly – you don’t want your first ever cook-up tasting like soap.
  6. Rub grill plates with oil and turn it on per manufacturer’s recommendation (around 15-20 minutes) and wipe it down with a clean cloth.

Why should you dry and oil your BBQ?

Simply, drying and oiling helps keep rust at bay so your plates are ready to cook when you are.

Clean immediately after you BBQ

Before joining your BBQ guests, turn off the gas and, while it’s still hot, scrape down the plates with a metal BBQ scraper to remove any burnt bits and built-up grease. Don’t let anything cool down and harden. (Try not to use anything bristly on your BBQ either – a soft cloth or sponge is better on the finish.)

Next, remove the plates and drip tray and get washing. Most reputable makers of BBQs suggest using warm soapy water. No need for harsh chemicals. A quick tip, take a look at your manufacturer’s instructions – some plates may be able to go straight into your dishwasher! Remember to give washed plates a rinse with warm water once clean to remove any soap residue – then dry them, oil them, and wipe the excess away so they’re ready for next time.

What to clean after every grill

  • Clean thoroughly: The grate, flat plate, warming racks and wok burner.
  • Clean pretty well: The drip tray and inside of the hood.
  • Wipe down: Knobs and doors, the exterior of the hood, side table and wok cover.

A once-over before firing it up again

Before you get cooking again, this step should take you no more than two minutes – assuming you did a thorough job of cleaning your BBQ after its last use.

  • Lift the lid and check for BBQ excess and debris that may still be on the plates.
  • Wipe it down lightly with a cloth soaked in warm water.
  • Dry the plates and you’re done.

Give your BBQ a deep clean once a year

It’s strongly recommended to do an annual deep clean your BBQ. The effort is slightly more than what you’d do after BBQ cooking and is designed to help you maintain your appliance’s shelf life.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  • Heat the BBQ for 15 minutes and give the plates a good scrape for any missed excess.
  • Disconnect the gas.
  • Let the plates cool.
  • Remove all plates, char grill plates, flame diffusers and warmer racks. Still got your manual? This will make reassembly a breeze.
  • Place the above into a trough/bucket of warm soapy water.
  • Use a sponge or cloth to clean.
  • Rinse with warm water and dry.
  • Oil the plates.
  • Wash and dry the body of the BBQ.
  • Reassemble and heat the BBQ for 15 minutes on high heat (including the hot plates).

How to clean rust off your BBQ grates

There are a few different ways to remove rust, but below is one of the more common ways is the scrape/soak/scrape method. If you can’t remove your BBQ grates, you can also apply a paste directly to the grates – scrape/paste/scrape.

  1. Scrub grate with a wire brush.
  2. Mix 1 cup of dish soap or vinegar and ¼ cup baking soda together into a paste.
  3. Fill a trough or bucket with water.
  4. Add the paste to the water, stir, and add your grate.
  5. Soak for an hour to help the paste loosen the rust.
  6. Remove grate and scrub with a wire brush again.
  7. Rinse with hot water, allow to dry completely, oil it, and you’re done.

Cooking hacks for cleaner BBQs

If your chief BBQ chef is somewhat of a Messy Marvin, show them these BBQ cooking hacks.

Cooking oil on the food
No need to throw cooking oil all over the plate. Just lightly on the food. (It’ll help stop the food from blistering, too.)
Patience
Patience is everything, particularly with meat. If you try to turn it too soon, the meat will stick and cause you grief
Fish
Delicate foods like fish need an aluminium foil baking tray or foil pouch, or they’ll stick and make your BBQ smell. They may also leave grime on the cooking surfaces
Roasts and marinades
Seal the meat on direct heat then pop it onto a metal rack on top of a foil tray for tidier cooking
Foil watch-points
We’ve mentioned foil above, but bear in mind that you should never cover the whole plate with aluminium foil – it restricts the heat flow
Clean both sides of the plates and the grill gratesDon’t forget all the bits that have dropped through to the other side
Drip tray cleaning
1. Scrape it down after each use
2. Lay down foil and remove after each use (check manufacturer’s instructions)
3. Lay down foil and sprinkle it with clean kitty litter (not the paper kind!) or Fat-sorb – this might last you 5-10 BBQs
BBQ wipes
Wipes are an easy way to keep your BBQ looking fresh between big cleans or before guests arrive. Don’t rely on wipes for the full clean, as you’ll go through too many (soapy warm water is best)   
   
Paper towels
These are great for absorbing fat in those hard to reach nooks and crannies.
Can’t bear cleaning?
You can lay down a washable Teflon sheet on the cooking surface before heating it, which helps to avoid getting the plate dirty. (Note: Teflon is avoided by some due to health and environmental concerns)
Public BBQs
If it’s a grill plate, scrunch up some foil, grab a set of tongs and give it a scrub.
If it’s a flat plate, throw half a stubby of beer onto it and scrape.
Or, as above, you can lay down a Teflon sheet

Need gas to power your BBQ?

Our Quick Swap gas bottles are perfect for outdoor living.

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Christmas salmon with herb crust recipe https://www.originenergy.com.au/blog/bbq-baked-whole-salmon/ Thu, 28 Sep 2023 03:51:30 +0000 https://www.originenergy.com.au/uncategorised/bbq-baked-whole-salmon Put your BBQ to good use this Christmas and whip up a baked salmon dish that'll melt in your mouth. Check out our recipe for BBQ salmon with herb crust.

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Avoid the hot kitchen and impress your guests with this BBQ baked salmon. We’ve shaken up this Christmas day favourite by adding a zesty herbed crust that’s sure to make your guests mouths water.


Serves: 8-10 people
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes

Ingredients:

½ bunch fresh dill, chopped
½ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
½ cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 large red chilli, seeded, chopped
1.2 kg fresh salmon side, skin on, pin-boned
¼ cup olive oil
½ cup fresh pomegranate seeds
3 tsp finely grated lemon rind

Method:

  1. 1. Combine the dill, mint, parsley, garlic and chilli in a bowl.
  2. 2. Place two large pieces of baking paper, wide enough to completely wrap the salmon onto the work bench. Place salmon skin-side down onto the baking paper.
  3. 3. Rub herb mixture into flesh side of salmon. Drizzle with oil and season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Wrap salmon to form a parcel and fold up edges to seal. Wrap in 2 large sheets of foil.
  4. 4. Preheat barbecue to medium. Place salmon on barbecue and close lid. Cook for 30-40 minutes or until just cooked. Check by inserting a sharp knife into the thickest part of the fish and seeing if it is cooked to your liking.
  5. 5. Carefully lift salmon into a serving platter. Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and grated lemon rind.
  6. 6. Serve with a side of couscous and green salad.
     

Make sure your LPG is topped up

Ensure Christmas lunch goes smoothly by giving your BBQ a deep-clean before your guests arrive and making sure you have plenty of gas to get you through the festive break. Our Quick Swap gas bottles are perfect for Christmas and summer barbies.

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What is LPG? https://www.originenergy.com.au/blog/what-is-lpg/ Tue, 18 Jul 2023 23:50:40 +0000 https://www.originenergy.com.au/uncategorised/what-is-lpg-and-how-is-it-produced Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a hydrocarbon consisting of propane & butane. Learn more about what LPG is, how it's produced and why you should use it.

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LPG (or liquefied petroleum gas) is a versatile fuel commonly used in Australian homes and businesses. We take a deeper look at LPG and how it works.

In summer, you’ll often see people swapping LPG bottles at the local petrol station, getting ready to power up their BBQ. Beyond a good BBQ though, it can provide us with heating, hot water and the power to cook our food. LPG is also important for use in industrial, commercial, agricultural, horticultural and manufacturing applications. It even powers co-generation plants.
 

What’s in LPG?

In Australia, LPG is propane gas, but overseas it can also be a mix of propane and butane gas. For those scientifically minded, propane (C3H8) contains three carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms. Butane (C4H10) contains four carbon atoms and ten hydrogen atoms.

Simply put, this means propane works well in cold weather, but butane isn’t as effective. For those happy campers who wake up to cold mornings, butane isn’t a great option.

Natural gas and LPG

Home appliances can run on either natural gas or LPG so it’s important to know the difference between the two. LPG is produced during oil refining or is extracted during the natural gas production process. If you release LPG, gas is emitted. In order to transport it, it must be placed under modest pressure to form a liquid. It can then be stored and transported in LPG cylinders.

Natural gas is extracted from deep within the earth and can contain ethane, propane, butane and pentane. Australian homes typically have hot water, appliances and heating fuelled by natural gas, which is delivered in pipelines.

At Origin, we explore and produce gas products to help meet energy needs both in the home and as a reliable energy source for businesses.

Why use LPG?

Usually sold in gas cylinders, LPG is a convenient, portable energy source that is easy to transport and store. The gas itself has a high heating or caloric value meaning as an energy source it provides a high level of heat in a short lifetime. It also has a virtual absence of sulphur, leading to cleaner burning.

For industry, LPG has a consistent quality. That means when it’s used for gas engines in forklifts or industrial boilers, it’s reliable and steady.

How to check the level of gas in your LPG bottle

You can check the level of gas in your LPG cylinder by carefully pouring hot water down the side of the it. Give it a minute and then run your hand down the cylinder. It will feel cool to the touch at the level of the gas. Be sure to be careful with the hot water.

If you’d like more tips about managing your LPG, check out our collection of handy hints.

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10 tips for a winning BBQ https://www.originenergy.com.au/blog/10-tips-for-a-winning-bbq/ Tue, 13 Dec 2022 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.originenergy.com.au/uncategorised/10-tips-for-a-winning-bbq Planning a BBQ and looking to perfect your technique? Get your skills up to scratch with these 10 simple tips and try one of our delicious BBQ recipes.

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There’s nothing like a great BBQ with friends and family, and whether you favour gas or charcoal, the grill has become a classic part of the Aussie lifestyle.

The humble barbecue is a winner on every level, from a simple snag to a full-on Aussie spread. But perfecting your BBQ skills can be a little harder than it looks for many of us, and nobody wants cremated sausages or overly charcoaled steak.

Here are some simple BBQ tips to help get things off to the best start. 

1. Prepare the meat beforehand

For the best results, chefs advise cooking your meat from room temperature. The goal here is to cook it through to the core without turning the surface of the meat to ash; it’s an odd little balancing act. Try cutting your meat into thin slices before you cook it, as there’s less time for the surface to burn and more time for the meat to roast.

2. Prepare the grill

Preparing the grill can be the difference between success and failure. First keep it clean. Make sure your last BBQ doesn’t spill into this one; nobody wants that, which is why it’s best to clean your BBQ after every use. 

3. Preheat the grill

Get your grill hot before you want to cook. You should have things heating up for around 10 minutes minimum before you want to cook. And always make sure meat is cooked through before serving it. 

“Try cutting your meat thin, this makes life much easier; there’s less time for the surface to burn whilst giving more time for the meat itself to roast”

4. Know your fuel

When it comes to the method of barbecuing, there are pros and cons for everything. Charcoal barbecuing, for instance, tends, to get excessively hot, and can be hard to manage. It also requires more time to get going and heat up and is much messier to clean up. In comparison, gas barbecues are much easier to clean and can be more convenient as you just turn them on.  Just don’t forget to top up the gas!
 


5. Don’t mess around with your meat 

Don’t continuously stab or hack at your meat while it’s cooking; you don’t want the juices draining and leaving you with dry food. Turn the meat once or twice but don’t overdo it; that much-loved barbecued outer layer won’t form otherwise.

6. Switch up your recipes

Even if it means small variations in seasonings or marinades for your sausages or pork steaks, consider switching it up. Barbecuing is flexible and is a great chance to try out a new recipe or getting some woodchips and smoking some meat.

Try these BBQ recipes: 

7. Know your marinades

Generally speaking, there’s a technique for each meat type. Fish, for instance, should be lightly coated every 10 minutes or so, whilst chicken can be marinated beforehand. Red meats can be coated, or depending on your grill, you could apply the marinade when your meat is grilling. Whatever the case, plan ahead with your marinating and your meat prep before you get cooking.

8. Don’t get impatient

“Is it done yet? One more check-up surely can’t hurt.” Patience is a virtue; even if you’re surrounded by hungry guests! Cooking meat takes time, and if you rush it you’ll deny your guests a tasty dinner, or even worse undercooked chicken wings! And no one wants that.

9. Safety first

Keep it safe when barbecuing. Stick close to the grill if you’re in charge of cooking. Normally people are gathering around, and children running about, so watch out for little hands and overzealous flames. 

10. Have fun

Probably the most important tip of all is to enjoy yourself. It’s an Aussie classic. 
 
Need LPG deliveries done automatically on schedule?

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Top tips for keeping your LPG topped up https://www.originenergy.com.au/blog/managing-your-lpg-gas/ Thu, 30 Jun 2022 22:39:00 +0000 https://www.originenergy.com.au/uncategorised/5-bottled-gas-mistakes-to-avoid Managing household gas bottles doesn't need to be tricky. Avoid these common mistakes and you'll keep your gas flowing like a pro.

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Managing your LPG at home doesn’t need to be tricky or time consuming. Whether you use gas for cooking, heating or hot water, here are our top tips for ensuring you’ve always got plenty of gas on hand.
 

Order when your first bottle runs out

If you’ve got multiple gas bottles – that are connected by a changeover lever – you’ve got what’s known as an ‘exchange system’. And it’s exactly what it sounds like. When one bottle’s empty, you can swap it over to the other. We recommend ordering a new cylinder as soon as you swap over the tank. This will help avoid any chance of cold showers, or microwave meals.

Keep tabs on your usage

Your gas usage might change over time, so it’s good to keep tabs on it. If you’ve purchased new gas appliances, have taken up regular meal prep or cooking or are enjoying longer showers during colder months, your usage will most likely go up. It’s worth considering whether you need to increase how often you get your LPG delivered. If you’re on a regular refill schedule, give us a call and let us know you need to change the frequency.

Check your levels

Speaking of keeping tabs on your usage, it’s handy to monitor your gas levels regularly. The best part? You’ll just need a jug of hot water; it’s aptly called the ‘hot water test’. Simply pour some hot (not boiling) water down the side of the cylinder while your gas appliances are in use. Then, run your hand down the cylinder, it will feel cool to the touch at the level of the gas. If you use a larger tank (like a 45KG cylinder), checking your levels might be even easier as they usually have a gauge that measures how much is left.

Make sure there’s clear access

This one might seem obvious, but if your LPG supplier can’t get access to your property, they likely won’t be able to complete your delivery. On the day of your delivery, make sure there’s clear and safe access to your property. This includes ensuring any dogs, goats or even llamas are restrained and that the relevant gates are unlocked. Another thing to note is that any items blocking access to your LPG installation will also need to be cleared – including obstructions on driveways.

Get registered

If you’re not already registered for our online portal, My Account, why not? Our handy portal makes managing your gas needs easy. You can place orders, keep track of your account balance, make payments and track your orders – all of this from the comfort of your computer/palm of your hand with the Origin app.

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Helping businesses reduce carbon emissions with LPG https://www.originenergy.com.au/blog/decarbonising-business-operations-with-lpg/ Mon, 20 Dec 2021 04:07:37 +0000 https://www.originenergy.com.au/blog/?p=18257 To improve the fuel efficiency and lower the carbon emissions of our LPG operations, Origin will soon take delivery of three new LPG powered ships.

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Origin’s LPG business is a significant operation, with over 360,000 customers and 1,200 employees spanning seven countries. LPG has a complex supply chain which includes everything from transporting LPG on ships and trucks to our LPG terminals, to making sales to customers, and finally, the delivery of LPG we sell to homes and businesses.   

Introducing the GasChem Homer

Ships are a vital component in our LPG supply chain, helping to move LPG along Australia’s eastern seaboard and  several Pacific Island nations.  

To improve the fuel efficiency and lower the carbon emissions of our LPG operations, Origin will soon take delivery of three new LPG powered ships. The first of these ships, the GasChem Homer, is expected to arrive in Australian waters by the end of December 2021, with the GasChem Iliad and GasChem Odyssey due by the middle of 2022. 

These are the first ships of this size to be powered by LPG, and they produce significantly less emissions than ships run on conventional marine fuel oil, which means they’re better for the planet. 

In fact, the ships will reduce overall fuel consumption by about 8% compared to conventional powered ships – leading to a carbon emissions reduction of 20% in comparison to a marine oil fuelled ship. When running on LPG, these ships also eliminate sulfur oxide emissions and reduce nitrogen oxide and particulate emission by 95%. 

Our new shipping strategy means we’ll be using more LPG produced in Australia to deliver to our local customers, with increased onboard LPG storage and a reduction in time lost to refuelling. 

Helping our customers reduce their carbon emissions

Not only are we working to reduce carbon emissions from our own operations, but we’re also work with our customers to identify opportunities to reduce their emissions.   

It is commonplace for customers in remote locations to have diesel generators as back-up to solar and wind generation assets. We’re currently working with several customers to replace their diesel generators with LPG-powered units, helping to lower their emissions and fuel waste. 

We’ve also helped customers lower their emissions by replacing coal fuelled manufacturing processes with LPG. One customer in Queensland recently achieved a 33% reduction in Scope 1 emissions by transitioning from black coal to LPG supply for their onsite boilers.  

And for customers wishing to offset their carbon emissions by supporting carbon offsetting projects that help improve the environment, we offer LPG

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7 steps to finding the best gas heater for your space https://www.originenergy.com.au/blog/buy-best-indoor-gas-heater/ Tue, 30 Mar 2021 02:00:00 +0000 https://www.originenergy.com.au/?p=17125 Finding the right gas heater can seem overwhelming. These seven simple steps will help make sure you find the right heater for your space this winter.

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Top of anyone’s list when searching for the best indoor gas heater is an appliance that warms the room quickly and evenly. But shouldn’t all gas heaters do this anyway? Well, yes… and no.

To help you find the indoor gas heater that best suits your needs, take a look at the ‘Origin 7-step method’.

1.   The indoor gas (or LPG) heater basics

Important to understand is that there are two main ways to connect gas heating, whether you have LPG or natural gas.

Unflued and flued gas heaters:

 Portable (unflued) heatersFlued gas heaters
Gas connectionPlugged into a bayonet with a gas hoseInstalled into the home and connected to the mains or an LPG bottle
Good to knowProvides instant heat for medium-sized roomsHeats mid-large size rooms and can be programmable
EmissionsInto the roomCarried outside by flue
WatchpointsInefficient for open plan homes
Water vapours can cause mould
Can’t move them around
Can be expensive
Who loves itHandy for renters because you can pack it up and take it with youPopular in apartment buildings and open plan homes

2.   Top gas heater features and types

Everyone’s different. Some people love the glow of radiant heat or a gas log fire. Others don’t need the atmosphere – they just want certain rooms to feel more liveable at high-use times of the day through the colder months. 

Types of unflued and flued gas heaters:

 How it heatsGood to know
PortableRadiant (direct heat)Manually operated electronic ignition (battery)
Cheaper to buy than convector or combo
 Convectors (fan-forced)Distributes heat more widely than radiant
Many come with thermostat and remote controls
 Combination (direct heat and air)Best of both worlds
Wall heaters  Fan forcedRecessed into a wall or on its surface Slimline look
Central heatingDucted into floor or ceilingFlexibility to heat your entire home or selected areas
Control the heat distribution, temperature and timing
Gas firesFlued gas ventsCan be inserted to existing opening, installed from scratch, or freestanding
No need for wood chopping!
A radiant gas heater in an open plan home isn’t as efficient as a wall or ducted gas heater.

3.   Your location and indoor room sizes

Here’s the thing, all the micro-environmental factors – like how cold it is or whether you get much sunshine at certain times of the day – help determine the type of indoor gas heater that’s best for you. So too does the area your gas heater must cover.

With this in mind, factors to consider include:

  • Number of rooms – do you want to heat a few different spaces or just one room?
  • Size of room – portable heaters aren’t permitted in small rooms; big rooms need more grunt
  • Windows and their size – a lot of glass requires more heat in order to warm the room
  • Insulation – this helps your heat stay where you want it
  • Where to position your gas heater – the size of your space and what lies beneath your walls, floors and ceilings.

Hot gas heater tips

  • Portable gas heaters are illegal in small rooms like bedrooms and bathrooms
  • Flued heaters are popular in cold climates such as the Blue Mountains and Tasmania

4.   Best heater size, gas consumption and capacity

Talking about the size of your space, measure the rooms and use this chart as your guide to the right gas heater size for you. The idea is to ensure that you buy something that gives you just the right amount of energy you need without over-investing.

Table source: choice.com.au

Hot gas heater tips:

  • kW (Kilowatt) measures the heat that comes out
  • MJ (Megajoules) measures the amount of gas consumed

5.   Indoor gas heater safety and your home

Here’s how to prioritise safety when selecting and installing a new gas heater:

  • Purchase a reputable indoor gas heater brand from a trustworthy supplier
  • Have it installed by a qualified gasfitter – whether flued through a chimney or firebox, or unflued gas bayonet
  • Install a standards-compliant carbon monoxide alarm
  • Get the right type of gas heater for the space(no portable gas heaters in bedrooms and bathrooms).

Other safety factors when deciding on the best gas heater for you:

  • Child locks – a feature gaining in popularity but not on all models yet
  • Automatic shut-off – in case portable appliances are knocked over
  • Portable appliance ventilation – a window or door must provide adequate ventilation for gas emissions
  • Water vapour – again on ventilation, if the room can’t breathe, mould can build up (particularly hazardous to people with allergies and other respiratory issues).
Open a window or door when operating an unflued portable gas heater. 

6.   Energy efficiency stars

The type of gas heater you buy will have a bearing on your energy consumption, as will the way you intend to use the appliance. Before you buy, be clear about what this looks like for you:

  • Will your indoor gas heater be on for extended periods in your home?
  • Do you plan to heat one mid-size room only?
  • Do you need flexibility – heating lots of rooms, possibly not all at the same time?

Hot gas heater tips

  • Flued heaters aren’t as energy efficient as portable gas heaters
  • Convection heaters aren’t efficient when used for long periods
  • Radiant heaters will only heat a certain part of the room (you may find yourself installing a second gas heater)
  • Programmable timers – turn the heat on and off to conserve energy
  • And as mentioned earlier, if you purchase a heater too large for the space, you could be paying for energy you don’t actually need.

7.   Shopping for the best gas heater

Armed with enough information to know what’s right for you, there are plenty of retailers who can help you out. Buy a new indoor gas heater rather than second hand for quality assurance purposes. And be sure to ask about noise, as some gas heaters are noisier than others – like a few of the fan-forced models.

LPG gas heater brands

The popular brands include Rinnai, Paloma and Omega. If you have a bigger budget, hit the product comparison sites. 

Retailers for gas heaters

Do a comparison shop online with at least three retailers, such as Harvey Norman, Appliances Online and The Good Guys.

Save on gas rebates

Pensioners in certain states and territories qualify for rebates on gas connections. If you haven’t taken advantage of the gas rebate schemes for LPG and natural gas, this could really help you.

Hot gas heater tips

• Portable gas heaters range from $400 to $1,500+
• Flued gas heaters range from $1,200 to $2,200 (but can go as high as $7,499+)

Go forth and find your best indoor gas heater

With LPG or natural gas, you have a range of appliance options to choose from. It’s just about knowing what you need for the space you have and finding the best indoor gas heater for your budget.

Need LPG to power your heater?

The post 7 steps to finding the best gas heater for your space appeared first on The Origin Blog.

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10 tips for buying the best hot-water system for you https://www.originenergy.com.au/blog/best-hot-water-system-for-you/ Fri, 30 Oct 2020 05:03:23 +0000 https://www.originenergy.com.au/?p=14338 Need to buy an LPG hot-water heating system and want the best system for your needs? In this article we answer the big questions on system types, water usage, energy efficiency, and how to have a conversation with a gas installer. In four minutes or less we’ll have you ready to hit the retailers with confidence in […]

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Need to buy an LPG hot-water heating system and want the best system for your needs?

In this article we answer the big questions on system types, water usage, energy efficiency, and how to have a conversation with a gas installer. In four minutes or less we’ll have you ready to hit the retailers with confidence in search of the best hot water system for you.

1. What system is right for you?

There are two main water-heating methods you can choose from that connect to LPG: natural gas and electricity. These are tank and instantaneous (or continuous flow) water heaters.

Regulations aimed at reducing energy consumption and waste mean that a new electric storage system isn’t a viable option for new homes.

Electric storage systems use heating elements to heat a tank of water that varies in size from about 25L on the low end to more than 400L in large properties. As these systems are not 100% insulated, there’s always potential for heat loss, which can be quite expensive in an electric system. 

Tank heaters are much larger than instantaneous, and instantaneous styles are gaining in popularity, mainly due to their compact size and energy efficiency.

Tank and instantaneous (continuous flow) water heaters

TankInstantaneous
System overviewHot water is released from the top of the tank when the hot tap is turned on; cold water enters the bottom of the tank to top it up.Cold water passes through when the hot tap is turned on; only the water you need is heated
Best place for itWhile they’re insulated to retain heat, outside in the sun is bestFlush against an outside wall, though they’re small enough to go inside
Good to knowSupplies hot water at a higher pressure than instantaneous systemsYou may never run out of hot water
WatchpointsMay corrode over time, though regular maintenance and corrosion-attracting features (anode rods) can help keep corrosion at bayHot flow may not turn on with some of the low-flow shower heads, though the trigger point can be adjusted as a workaround
Who loves it5+ people households1-4 people households

2. Are there restrictions on what to install?

Depending on your building and household, it could be better for you to install one type of gas hot water system over another.

Local water quality plays a part – storing water that’s considered poor quality or “hard” can lead to tank corrosion of your storage tank and piping (to name but a few of the issues it can cause).

In this case, you could be better off going with an instantaneous system where the water passes through and heats as you go.

Hot water system storage – tanks and instantaneous systems are typically stored outside for venting purposes, though they can be installed indoors if needed, so long as they can be flued into the outdoors.

3. What size and type of hot water system will you need?

Your average Australian household uses around 40–50 litres of hot water per person per day. A too-small system and someone misses out on a hot shower or the flow is slowed. A too-large system and you’re paying for resources you don’t use.

Go through the following with your installer:

  • The number of people living there.
  • Everyone’s schedule – all showered in the morning or evening, or no pattern?
  • Is anyone a fan of long, hot baths?
  • Do you use cold or hot water for laundry?
  • Do you have a dishwasher or do you wash the dishes by hand?
Hot-water heater tips
Before you buy a gas hot-water system, engage an installer such as a plumber or hot-water installation specialist. They can help guide you on what’s best for you by looking at your water usage, household size, and a few other factors.
(Be sure to read this article first so you’re armed with key information and have the lingo down pat.)

Size guide for water heaters

How to sizeGood to know
Storage tanks Number of people• 1-2 person household could install a small storage tank (90L approximately)
• 4-person household needs a tank of about 135–170L
• 5+ households could find a large tank more economical to install than multiple instantaneous systems (around the 200-300L range)
InstantaneousNumber of hot water outlets and peak usage• 2-bathroom household needs 22–24 L/minute flow rate
• If 2 people shower at once, you need a minimum flow rate of 14L/minute
• You can install more than one system and dedicate them to different parts of the house

4. Is there a resource-efficient water heating system?

The labelling of energy-star rating information isn’t regulated yet by government in the same way that it is for fridges and other appliances.

Ask the retailer or your installer to provide the detail and do your own research – aim for a 6- or 7-star rating on combustion efficiency. Generally, a higher rating indicates lower running costs.

Water-heating tanks are insulated, but nothing is perfect and there is always some heat loss over time, so it’s good to install them in an insulated spot or possibly in a sunny space.

5. What are some gentler choices for the back pocket and the planet?

Water heating comprises around a quarter of your energy spend, so it really does pay to get the best bang for your dollar.

When updating your system, you want something that helps to reduce your current water consumption as much as possible. Some hot water systems have been in place a long time and may no longer be what your household needs or in line with current recommendations.

  • Get the appropriate size system for your household.
  • LPG gas could give you bigger cost savings than natural gas and electricity.
  • If you’re in a warmer climate, consider a gas-boosted solar instantaneous system.
Hot-water heater tips
While energy efficiency is measured by how the appliance heats up and combusts, it’s the combustion factor that’s key. This tells you how effectively the fuel can be transferred to heat.

6. Where can you buy the most reliable hot water heater?

From the department-style electronic and household retailers right through to speciality stores and the manufacturers direct, you’ve got loads of purchasing options. As with any big purchase, get three quotes once you’ve decided on the gas hot water system that is right for you.

7. What’s the best brand of gas hot water system?

One of the biggest brands is the Rinnai Infinity 26, however Vulcan, Rheem and Dux hot water system products are also popular. Customer reviews alongside advice from a trusted installer will heIp with decision making, so hit the product comparison and review sites to find out more.

8. Which retailers sell gas heaters?

You should be able to find hot water systems at Bunnings, Appliances Online, The Good Guys and through local specialists.

Your installer may be able to get a trade discount for you, but this approach may limit your choices.  

9. What about savings with gas rebates?

Pensioners in certain states and territories qualify for rebates on gas connections. If you haven’t taken advantage of the gas rebate schemes for LPG and natural gas, this could really help you.

Hot-water heater tips
Hot water heating systems range in price from $900 to $2,000+ and typically come with a decent warranty. A 10-year warranty is recommended.

10. What else do you need to consider to buy the best gas hot water system for you?

With LPG or natural gas, you have a range of appliance options to choose from. Type “compare gas hot water systems Australia” into Google to get going on your search for a new hot water system.

So, what else should you consider?

Installation costs

Installation costs can differ greatly based on the size of the job. If you substitute the current hot water tank with the one that is of the same capacity and in the same location, the installations costs range from about $275 to $700.

But, if you choose to move the whole hot water service to another location in the house or on the property, then the construction costs may be as high as $1100 to $2500 depending on the plumbing and electrical work needed.

Water temperature

Temperature controllers allow you to set the hot temperature of the water you like. Turn on the hot tap and enjoy, no more matching hot to cold!

Simply set the perfect water temperature, switch on the hot tap and enjoy – controllers help to save water and reduce temperature swings.

The gas storage tanks are very quick to recover from temperature variations – mainly because they can apply a heat source to the liquid mass. This mass maintains its temperature in a pretty stable manner.

Want a great LPG deal to go with your hot water system?

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Beer braised beef recipe https://www.originenergy.com.au/blog/braised-beef-in-beer/ Wed, 23 Sep 2020 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.originenergy.com.au/uncategorised/braised-beef-in-beer Love braised beef? A can of Guinness adds a new twist to this traditional braised beef recipe. Check out our BBQ braised beef in beer recipe.

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A can of Guinness adds a new twist to this traditional braised beef recipe. Pair it with mashed potato for a pub meal feel.

Serves: 4-6 people
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2.5 – 3 hours

Ingredients:

1 tbs canola oil
1 brown onion, chopped
1 leek, sliced
1kg gravy beef, cut into chunks
2 tbs flour
1 orange
440ml can Guinness
2 bay leaves
400g can diced tomatoes
2 tbs tomato paste
½ bunch kale or silverbeet, stalks removed and shredded

Method:

  1. Heat oil in a large heavy-based flameproof pot. Add onion and leek and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring, or until softened.
  2. Toss meat and flour in a bowl. Add to the pot and stir to combine. Finely grate the orange zest and squeeze juice into the pot. Add Guinness, bay leaf, tomatoes
  3. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2½-3 hours or until meat is tender. Stir in the shredded kale and cook for 1-2 minutes or until wilted.
  4. Serve with a side of mashed potato.
     

Note: This recipe is very easy because you don’t need to brown the beef.

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