Making Your Front Porch More Inviting

If it is time for a new furnace for your home, an oil or gas powered furnaces are probably two of the better choices. There are differences between the two that you can use to determine which you want for your home. Here are some of the pros and cons of each to help you make the right decision. 

Oil Furnace

One of the biggest advantages of an oil-powered furnace is that it is usually less expensive to purchase than a gas-powered furnace. Depending on the type of installation needed and the efficiency of the system, a gas furnace can cost up to $12,000. By contrast, an oil furnace can cost up to $10,000. Although you will more than likely pay far less for either model, the savings on the upfront costs of the oil are usually lower. 

Oil furnaces also have a higher BTU output than gas furnaces. This translates to oil creating heat at a higher and faster rate than a gas furnace would. 

There are a couple of disadvantages to using an oil furnace though. For instance, oil furnaces require more maintenance than a gas furnace. However, it is important to note that many oil delivery companies offer maintenance as part of their delivery packages. 

The oil for the furnace also needs to be stored on-site. Even though you have to find a place for your oil to be stored, there is an upside. Storing the oil is safe. The oil is designed to be non-explosive so your family is not at risk for a fire or other injury.

Gas Furnace

On average, gas furnaces are thought to be more energy-efficient than oil furnaces. The furnaces cost more to purchase up front, but over time, your energy bills are lower than with an oil furnace. However, the higher the energy efficiency rating for a furnace, the more expensive the unit is. 

The installation of a gas furnace is also less complicated than an oil furnace. You do not have to worry about the installation of an oil storage unit. You only need a vent pipe through the roof and a gas line. 

On the downside, because gas furnaces have a lower BTU output, they have to operate longer to warm your home. Just like an oil furnace, they also require regular maintenance to keep them operating efficiently. 

Before making your final decision, talk to a heating oil delivery service to find out the exact cost of replenishing your oil. You can also learn more about the benefits of using an oil or gas furnace. To find out more, speak with a business like Self Heating Cooling.