Though oil heat is increasingly rare, many homes on the East Coast still rely on oil furnaces to provide heat in the winter. However, HVAC companies like Nu-Temp Heating and Cooling often recommend switching from oil to natural gas. Not only will this switch save you money in the long run, but you also won’t have to worry about running out of oil in the depths of a New England winter.
Why Switch to Gas?
These days, many of us are looking for ways to be more efficient with our energy consumption. Natural gas can burn more completely than oil, and even the most fuel-efficient oil-burning furnaces are not as powerful or clean as gas furnaces. You may also be eligible for rebates or tax credits if you switch from oil to gas, thus giving you an additional financial incentive to do so.
Factors to Consider When Converting
Though converting from oil to gas heat is likely to be a significant upfront expense, depending on variables such as which system you choose, the switch will save you money in the long run because it costs less to heat a home with natural gas. If you need to replace an old oil-burning furnace anyway, and you plan to remain in your home for another several years, it’s probably smart to make the switch. You can recoup the initial costs of buying and installing a new furnace (and water heater, if necessary) over time.
It’s also smart to consider how the switch will affect the resale value of your house when the day comes to put it on the market. Many homebuyers are reluctant to take on the environmental liabilities associated with oil tanks, and they may see an oil furnace as a nuisance because of the need to keep it topped off with fuel. Having a new, clean-running gas furnace installed could allow you to set a higher initial asking price for your home when you decide to sell.
However, before committing to the change, you will need to ensure there is a gas main available for you to connect to, and that you have hookups available. If you aren’t sure if natural gas is an option in your neighborhood, ask around among your neighbors or call the utility company. You may also need to have new piping installed in your home. And, you’ll want to have a plan in place for disposing of your old fuel tank. Some contractors will include removal and disposal of the tank as part of the installation agreement, but make sure to get clarification on that up front.
Ready to Make the Switch From Oil to Gas?
If you are interested in converting from oil-fueled heat to gas, reach out to us at Nu-Temp Heating and Cooling. We can help ensure your family’s comfort all winter long, no matter what weather Mother Nature decides to test us with. We offer complimentary estimates, financing offers and a 100% satisfaction guarantee for homeowners in the greater Philadelphia area.