At today's rates, it typically costs about a dollar less to produce one therm (the commercial heating unit, equal to 100,000 Btus) with gas than with heating oil. That may not sound like much, but it really adds up over the course of the winter and fall. Converting from oil to gas can help you save hundreds in just one year, let alone over the long term.
Natural gas also burns cleaner than fuel oil, making your gas-burning furnace lower maintenance and more eco-friendly. The cleanest burning of the fossil fuels, natural gas emits mainly carbon dioxide and water vapor when burned. It does emit some carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, but not nearly as much as oil or coal, and creates virtually no soot or ash. When you let Campbell Heating & Air convert your furnace from oil to gas, you'll greatly reduce your pollution emissions for a lower impact on the environment as well as practically eliminate the need for regular furnace cleanings!
When it comes to actually converting your heating system from oil to gas you have two options: burner replacement and gas furnace installation.
Burner Replacement: In many cases, the burner in your old oil furnace can be replaced with a gas-burning burner, saving you the cost of an entirely new furnace. Keep in mind that while you will gain the benefits of a cleaner, more affordable fuel source, if your converted furnace is old, it will not be nearly as efficient as if you had a new gas-burning furnace installed. Burner replacement can be an affordable way to get the benefits of natural gas, so be sure to ask your heating contractor if this is an option for your home!
Gas Furnace Installation: The other option is to switch out your old oil furnace for a new gas furnace. A more costly option, this also ensures you get the latest furnace technology and the most energy-efficient furnace. Our team can help you select the ideal gas furnace for your home, taking into account questions of size, efficiency, manufacturer, and more.
Converting your home heating system from oil to gas also requires that your house have natural gas service. Even if you already have a natural gas line (for the kitchen stove, etc.), you may need to have it upgraded: many homes are fitted with gas lines that are appropriately sized for a kitchen appliance but not to adequately heat your entire house! If your home does not already have a gas line, installing one is generally straightforward and cost-effective.
Finally, be sure that your chimney is safe for use with a gas furnace. In most cases, we recommend installing a steel liner to ensure that no carbon monoxide can leak into your house. Even if your furnace chimney is safe for your current oil-burning furnace, it may not be safe for the new gas furnace. Our professionals can assess your existing chimney to ensure it's safe for your gas furnace and to recommend solutions if it's not.
So if you're ready to start saving money and reduce your environmental impact, converting your furnace from oil to gas is a great choice. Call today to get started on your oil to gas furnace conversion!
