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HeatingHome Efficiency & ImprovementMarch 05, 2020
Which Is Better for Your Home — Oil or Gas Furnaces?
Before making an expensive purchase like a furnace, it’s vital that you do your homework and plan accordingly. Choosing between gas and oil is a decision that you shouldn’t take lightly when picking a heating unit for your house. Let’s compare oil vs. gas furnaces to help you find out the option that offers the best value and is most suited to your needs.
Efficiency
When you’re in the market for a new furnace, the first thing you’ll want to look at is the AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating. A higher rating indicates higher efficiency. Generally, new gas furnaces have AFUE ratings of between 89% and 98%, whereas oil furnaces are rated between 80% and 90%.
Upfront Costs
The higher efficiency of gas furnaces comes at a cost. The prices of gas units are typically 10% to 25% higher than those of their oil counterparts.
Fuel Prices
While gas furnaces cost more upfront, their fuel prices are lower. That’s because the United States is a leading natural gas producer, making the price relatively stable. On the other hand, the cost of oil is impacted by the global swings in supply and demand and the unrest in oil-producing countries. Consequently, it’s more volatile than the price of natural gas.
Heat
Oil furnaces provide more heat per British thermal unit (BTU) than gas furnaces. That makes them a great option for people in colder regions. However, these furnaces require on-site storage tanks. Oil furnaces can also be ideal for people living in remote areas, as they don’t require a connection to a utility company.
Maintenance Requirements
Oil furnaces require more maintenance than their gas counterparts due to soot and dirt buildup. Their chimneys must be cleaned and their filters replaced frequently. You’ll need to have a service contract in place with the delivery company. Gas furnaces need little maintenance, so a service contract isn’t required.
As you can see, oil and gas furnaces have their own advantages and disadvantages. Be sure to evaluate them before making your final decision. For more expert advice on choosing between oil vs. gas furnaces, contact Ace Hardware Home Services.
