Switching can save you up to 70% in annual home heating costs
Converting From Oil Heat
Before you refill your oil for the upcoming season, it might be time to consider updating your heating system to a more cost-efficient method. Though common, oil systems are one of the most expensive ways to heat a home. Natural gas is cheaper, but there are some hidden costs to switching. When considering an oil-to-gas conversion, there are a few things to consider before you pick one. We’ll guide you through the initial cost and long-term savings of converting your heating system to find the best fit for your home.
If your home has an oil system that is less than five years old, it can be easily converted to natural gas. Instead of replacing the entire system, only the fuel source needs to be upgraded. This is a less costly way to convert from oil to gas, ranging from $2,000 to $5,000. If you are thinking about switching to natural gas and have a system in this age range, this is the most cost-efficient option.
The only downside to converting from oil to gas is if your home doesn’t have a gas hookup. Gas line installation involves running a pipe from your property to the main at the street. New gas line installation can cost around $1,000.
The Benefits of Oil-to-Gas Conversion
When you heat your home with natural gas, there’s a constant stream of fuel coming from an underground pipeline. This lowers operating costs and eliminates the need for fuel deliveries. When switching to natural gas, there are a variety of benefits, including:
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Inexpensive annual utility costs
Oil is more expensive than natural gas, currently at $4.95 per gallon in Pennsylvania, and has been consistently rising in cost. When considering an oil-to-gas conversion, you can expect annual heating costs to decrease by 60% or more.
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Efficiency
It’s more energy efficient and environmentally friendly compared to oil.
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No Deliveries
It removes the need to monitor fuel levels and have it delivered as there is a constant source from the pipeline.
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Less Maintenance
It requires less maintenance than oil heating and doesn’t leave behind residue.
Upgrading From an Oil Furnace to a Gas Furnace
If your home already has an oil furnace, a gas furnace is the most straightforward conversion for better cost-efficiency. See how oil and gas furnaces compare to each other:
Oil Furnace:
- Average Installation Cost: $10,500-$14,500
- Annual Utility Cost: $5,900-$9,500
- Average Lifespan: 12-15 Years
Gas Furnace:
- Average Installation Cost $5,800-$12,500
- Annual Utility Cost: $1,670-$2,660
- Average Lifespan: 12-15 Years
Upgrading From an Oil Boiler to a Gas Boiler
If your home has an oil boiler, a gas boiler is a convenient conversion for better cost-efficiency. See how oil and gas furnaces compare to each other:
Oil Boiler:
- Average Installation Cost: $12,000-$16,500
- Annual Utility Cost: $4,290-$5,650
- Average Lifespan: 15-20 years
Gas Boiler:
- Average Installation Cost: $10,800-$26,000
- Annual Utility Cost: $1,670-$2,660
- Average Lifespan: 15-20 Years
Upgrading to an Air-Source Heat Pump (Mini-Split or Multi-Split System and Ducted Heat Pumps)
While a ductless mini-split or ducted heat pump option might require a higher initial investment compared to furnaces or boilers, their long-term benefits significantly outweigh the upfront cost.
- Average Installation Cost: $11,000 to $26,000
- Annual Utility Cost: $500-$800 (20-40% savings)
Average Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
Upgrading to a Geothermal Heat Pump
While natural gas systems are cheaper than oil, the most cost-efficient, environmentally friendly way to heat a home is using a geothermal heat pump system. Geothermal systems use pipes buried in the ground called “loops” to draw heat into the home. Since the pipes are buried underground, the system requires little to no maintenance. It also doesn’t require oil or gas and uses minimal electricity to provide stable, even heating throughout the home.
Geothermal System:
- Average Installation Cost: $40,000-$70,000
- Average Lifespan: 50+ years
- No significant annual increase in electric bill
- Can be used for both heating and cooling
Natural Gas Heating Benefits With Unique Indoor Comfort
With Unique Indoor Comfort, you can unlock the true potential of natural gas heating for your home. Our experienced technicians will expertly install and maintain your natural gas heating system, ensuring unparalleled comfort, efficiency, and reliability. Contact us today at (610) 825-4400 to schedule a consultation.
