Should I Convert From Heating Oil To Natural Gas?

Should I Convert from Heating Oil to Natural Gas

The easy answer to this question is Yes! But before we go any further you should first check to see if Natural Gas is an option in your area. In order to convert to gas, there must be an existing gas main under your property that you can tap into. In the event there is not an existing gas main, one course of action would be to organize with your local neighbors or community and petition the gas company. This has worked in the past although it is not a guarantee.  Another option would be a fresh air intake furnace.

Converting from heating oil to natural gas will absolutely be more cost effective in the long run. The only pinch will be paying for the initial conversion. Which can be very expensive. Be mindful that this is a long term investment. It would be wise to calculate both the cost of action and inaction. Heating oil prices will continue to rise.

Assuming you’ve checked with the gas company and your property is eligible for an oil to gas conversion. Your first course of action should be establishing the price for the entire conversion. Most reliable HVAC companies offer interest-free financing for conversion services.

Homeowners should weigh the cost of the conversion against their current heating and maintenance costs to determine whether it makes financial sense in the long run. Taking into consideration the rising cost of heating oil, tank maintenance and potential risks of a leak.

Jacobs Property Solutions Oil Tank Removal will provide you a detailed estimate for our services. In an effort to assist you in making an informed decision.

How much does it Cost to Convert from Heating Oil to Gas?

As with everything else, the prices vary dramatically.

According to CBS Boston, switching to a natural gas forced hot air system can cost between $4,500 and $7,000. New England Cable News estimates that conversions cost a homeowner on average $3,500-$10,000.

Clearly, there is a lot of real estate between $3,500 and $10,000.

The are several factors that will influence your service cost:

1. Do you need a new gas line installed from the main line into your home

On average a new gas line installation $1,000. The good news is your local utility company will often do this for free. Be sure to ask. The queasy wheel gets the grease.

2. The age of your heating system

According to NSTAR if your heating system is 10 years or older, you will more than likely need a new heating system. On average a new heating installation will cost between $5,000 and $10,000. Prices vary based on materials and choices in equipment.

3. Do you need a chimney liner installed

• The gas exhaust will cause a moisture buildup in your chimney. If this is the case your chimney may need to be re-lined. Reliving a chimney will cost between $750 to $2,000.
• This fee can be avoided if you’re purchasing or installing a high-efficiency (condensing) furnace.

4. Conversion Incentives & Rebates

Most companies offer incentives and/or rebates for Heating oil to natural gas conversions. MASS SAVE has a list of rebates and credits for switching to gas. It will be worth your time to research rebates. You can easily knock hundreds of dollars off the initial conversion costs.

How much will I save by converting from oil to gas heating?

Statistics say the average homeowner will save approximately $1,077 per year.

The New England Cable News regularly reports that the average household in the Northeast with heating oil will spend approximately TWICE what natural gas customers will spend this winter.

This information was supplied by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

As always this only an average. Actual numbers may differ. However, on average if you have a heating oil tank system in your home you will pay roughly double the cost to heat your home. is just a forecast. Actual usage prices will depend on the size of a home, weather, your heating preference, etc.

In addition to saving money on heating oil, you will save money on maintenance. Maintenance a gas heating system is far less expensive than maintaining a heating oil tank.

Some of the conveniences you’ll enjoy…

No more changing nozzles and filters on the oil tank. Say goodbye to the annual chimney cleaning and the oil company!

Ok, fine Gas is cheaper than Oil. But is it more reliable?

ABSOLUTELY. Just getting the oil to your home in a storm can be a problem. Heating oil will have to be trucked to your home to fill up the oil tank. These deliveries are constantly delayed due to severe weather conditions, storms and other factors

Conversely, natural gas is piped directly into your home via underground mains. Clean, easy and efficient.

Should you switch?

You would have to ask yourself these questions:

How much will the conversion cost?

• Make sure you get at least 3 estimates from licensed professionals

Research any incentives you can take advantage of? This will help to minimize service costs.  How long will it take until the heating system has paid for itself? If you plan on moving out of your home it may not be worth the trouble.

Food for Thought

Let’s say your conversion to gas costs you approximately $5,000. On average you’ll save about $1,077 per year. Using these numbers it would take less than 5 years to until you’re the heating system has essentially paid for itself.

If you plan on living in your home for 7-10 years, converting to gas would be a wise investment.

Now you have the necessary information to make an informed decision.

If you live in the Rhode Island or Massachusetts area please contact your local Oil Tank Removal and Oil to Gas Conversion Specialists at Jacobs Property Solutions Oil Tank Removal. We will be happy to assist you with all of your heating needs!