Whether you’re installing a replacement furnace in your Port Arthur, Texas, home or trying to figure out which type to put in a new home construction project, do your research before making a decision. The two main furnace types are oil-powered and gas-powered, and each comes with its own set of pros and cons.
Oil Costs More
If you are on a tight monthly budget, you might want to opt for a natural gas-powered heating system because oil costs more than gas. In fact, the cost difference is so substantial that you could end up spending over three times more for oil. Oil’s benefit is that it provides more heat per BTU than natural gas. So while it might cost you more to buy the oil used in your furnace, if you live somewhere that gets very cold, it might be worth it to better heat your home.
Gas Heat is More Efficient
A gas-powered furnace may cost more than an oil furnace, so you’ll wind up spending more upfront. But once it’s installed, you’ll enjoy improved heating efficiency over the oil heating system, resulting in lower bills. Natural gas is produced in the United States and Canada, so the prices remain fairly stable. You also won’t have to worry about investing in an oil storage tank that will take up extra space, because most homes have a natural gas line that connects to the furnace.
Compare Efficiency Ratings
Your heating system’s overall efficiency will dictate how much it costs to run. So before you invest in a new furnace, compare the efficiency ratings on oil-powered and gas-powered units. The standard measure of rating is the same across the board. You’ll see an AFUE rating that shows the percentage of fuel that comes in the form of heat that’s usable within your furnace.
Our team at Thermacon Service Company Inc. can help you decide which heating option is best, so contact us at 866-797-1535 for an appointment.
Image provided by Shutterstock
