Heat of the moment

Undertaking a new home project these days requires a lot of forward thinking. However, it's also a chance to improve on what has gone before and that applies to your choice of services as much as your design preferences.

Opting for natural gas as an energy source provides many benefits, which can be maximised by a little forethought.

For example, heating your home with natural gas provides energy savings and is a safe and efficient way to keep the family warm through winter. Natural gas options, which provide instant heat at the touch of button, include central heating, convector and flued heaters. Gas-fired underfloor heating is another option to consider at the planning stage. Or, you may prefer the ambience of a flame-effect gas fire.

Not surprisingly, there's a wide variety of gas heaters and fires to choose from, ranging from traditional looks to highly contemporary stainless steel models, as seen in this home. Gas fires and heaters are available with different heat outputs. These appliances also come with features, such as thermostats, programmable timers and economy modes, that enable you to make considerable energy savings. There are also flued gas fires and heaters to help your home stay warm and comfortable.

Cooking with gas an option preferred by most chefs around the world offers distinct advantages. A gas flame provides instant, even heat. In addition, gas offers precise temperature control, even for simmering delicate sauces.

Cooking in a gas oven helps you create succulent dishes, as the water vapour produced by gas keeps the food moist.

And you can ensure your kitchen is up to date with the latest trends. Advanced gas appliance design now offers co-ordinated benchtop units that incorporate wok burners, griddle plates and hotplates, all made for ease of cleaning.

Planning a new home provides an ideal opportunity to install a continuous flow gas hot water system. This gives you instant hot water and means you won't incur energy costs for storing hot water. It also means the shower will never run cold, no matter how many people use it.

Other areas where you can enjoy the convenience of natural gas and energy savings include the laundry, where you can install a gas-powered clothes dryer.

Outdoor living areas can also benefit, as a mains natural gas supply is the most convenient and efficient fuel source for barbecues and patio heaters. Planning to include this option means you won't have to refill gas bottles regularly. In addition, you can use natural gas to heat swimming and spa pools.

Story by: Trendsideas