Ian Murphy, LPG Domestic Bulk Sales Representative at Calor gas, discusses why installers should recommend LPG to their rural customers.

Installers are often unaware of the customer benefits of LPG and how recommending it can help them to improve their own business.

By arming themselves with knowledge about LPG and the advantages it offers, installers are able support homeowners in making the switch – and in doing so capitalise on areas such as boiler and appliance installation. So why should a customer choose LPG?

LPG is a versatile fuel that can be used for home heating and hot water, cooking, and to fuel household appliances such as tumble dryers and fixed fires. LPG boilers are usually cheaper and easier to fit than oil boilers, which can make installation quicker and save time on the job, ultimately reflecting on the installation price to the customer.

What’s more, the cost of the tank and maintenance is a lot less too. For example, an oil tank and its installation can cost up to £2,000, and should be replaced every 15 – 20 years. With LPG, homeowners can currently receive an above ground tank installation free of charge, and for a small monthly fee Calor takes on ownership and maintenance of the tank.

Oil theft is also now becoming more common in rural areas, which can be cause for concern for those with oil tanks, as it’s very easy for thieves to siphon off the fuel. In comparison, the theft of LPG is virtually unheard of, which is another reason for rural homeowners to opt for LPG.

There are a number of storage options with LPG too. For properties with larger garden space, an above ground tank or underground tank would be an ideal option. Underground tanks are a popular choice, as the tank is hidden from sight with only a circular cover on view. For rural properties with little outdoor space or a lower heating demand, Calor cylinders offer a compact solution.

LPG is the greenest fossil fuel available to non-mains gas homes and emits around 20 per cent less CO2 per Kwh than oil, making LPG an ideal partner for renewable systems such as solar, ground source heat pumps and air source heat pumps or hybrid systems.

To find out more about the opportunities that LPG could offer your business and customers, visit www.calor.co.uk/installer, follow @CalorInstaller on Twitter, or call 0345 600 7701 for further information.