Choosing the best heating system for your home isn’t something to be taken lightly. When it comes to choosing between oil and gas furnaces, it’s important to understand the differences between these two heating options, as well as the advantages and caveats each choice offers.
Oil Furnaces
The great thing about oil furnaces is that they provide more heat per British thermal unit (BTU) than a comparable gas model. They also cost less to purchase than gas furnaces. On the other hand, oil furnaces aren’t as efficient as their gas-fired counterparts, plus they require more extensive maintenance due to higher levels of dirt and soot buildup.
Natural Gas Furnaces
Natural gas furnaces offer cleaner and quieter operation, thanks in large part to their cleaner-burning fuel sources. They’re also less of a pain to maintain than their oil-burning counterparts. If you’re the type of homeowner who keeps a sharp eye on the pocketbook, you’ll be glad to know that supplying a gas furnace is often less expensive than keeping an oil-burning model well fed.
However, gas furnaces are usually more expensive than similar oil furnaces. Not only that, but natural gas offers less heat energy per BTU than oil.
Which to Choose?
If you’re replacing an existing furnace, then chances are the choice has already been made for you. Unless you want to spare the expense of switching fuel sources, you’re likely to stick with what already powers your furnace and other home appliances.
For new homes and those undergoing remodeling, the choice depends on a variety of factors, including cost, gas or oil availability and your own personal preferences.
If you're ready to purchase your next furnace, don't hesitate to contact the professionals at C.R. Wolfe Heating & Air Conditioning, proudly serving the Middletown area since 1945.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Middletown, New York about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about furnaces and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 845-367-4482.
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