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Propane Gas vs. Oil Heating – Pros & Cons
Propane Gas vs. Oil Heating – Pros & Cons
Posted: July 10, 2017
Most New England homeowners turn to either propane gas or heating oilfurnaces and boilers to heat their homes. Both fuels will keep your house warm, and both will do the job better than electricity-based system in virtually every way.
However, if it’s time to replace an older heating system, it may pay to consider switching fuels – a decision that isn’t always an easy one to make. Each fuel type has pros and cons to consider – here is a quick guide to some of the bigger ones:
Propane Heating pros
Propane gas is generally less expensive per gallon than heating oil
Propane equipment runs more efficiently than heating oil equipment
When burned, propane does not produce significant carbon dioxide; in fact propane is approved as a “clean fuel” by the US Government
Because propane burns clean, propane heating equipment requires less maintenance and last longer than heating oil-based equipment
Propane is nontoxic and nonpoisonous, so it doesn’t contaminate groundwater or soil if it leaks – which means propane tanks can be safely buried out of sight
Propane gas boilers and furnaces can be vented through regular PVC pipe through the roof or a wall rather than through a traditional chimney
Propane tanks can have significantly larger capacities than heating oil tanks – which means fewer deliveries are needed; it also allows buyers to “stock up” on propane gas when prices are favorable
Propane can also be used to power other appliances such as ranges and water heaters – all from the same fuel source
Propane Heating cons
Propane produces fewer BTUs per gallon than oil heating
Propane-burning equipment often costs more to purchase than heating oil-based systems
Propane is combustible in air, so precautions are needed to operate the equipment safely
Oil Heating pros
Heating oil has a higher BTU output per gallon and is used up more slowly than propane; this could mean you will pay less to heat your house with heating oil, even if the per gallon cost of propane is less
Equipment generally costs less to purchase
Oil Heating cons
Heating oil tanks – especially older steel-lined ones – are susceptible to leaks, which can be extremely costly to clean up – an expense that is often not covered by home owner’s insurance
Most heating oil comes from offshore sources, which means its price is subject to international market forces and is therefore more volatile than propane
When burned, heating oil produces much more carbon dioxide gas than propane
Oil furnaces need to be cleaned more frequently than propane furnaces – a service you pay for
In most homes that are heated by oil, other appliances (such as water heaters, ranges, and clothes dryers) are run by electricity, which is not as efficient as propane
The bottom line If you’re a heating oil customer with an aging heating system thinking about making the switch to propane, there are many reasons to do it – but it’s going to take careful consideration to make the right call.
If you’re ready to explore whether converting your home system to propane makes sense, give us a call – we’ve had years of experience making the switch for Maine homeowners and can walk you through your options so you can make the best call for you.
Thinking about switching the heating fuel in your Maine home? We can help you make the right choice! Contact us today to learn more.