Deciding To Stick With Heating Oil Or Switch To Natural Gas
Sometimes homeowners must decide whether they want to continue using a heating oil furnace or switch to natural gas. Oil furnaces are prevalent in the northeastern United States and also are found in fewer numbers throughout the country. If these households decide to make the change, contractors providing furnace installation service are ready to complete the project.
Two Scenarios
The need for this decision generally happens in two kinds of scenarios. In one, a utility company extends the natural gas pipeline into a residential area. This is common around the edges of a city as it grows larger. The utility company now can get enough business to justify doing so. Before this occurred, households wanting to use forced-air furnaces needed to have liquid propane or heating oil delivered. After pipeline extension, they have the option of switching.
In the second scenario, someone buys a house that has an oil furnace but could be hooked up to natural gas. The utility company extended the pipeline some time ago, but the previous homeowners kept heating with oil. If the new residents have always lived in homes with natural gas, they must learn about arranging for heating oil delivery. If that furnace is old enough, the household may figure replacing it with a natural gas model makes sense.
Reasons for Choosing Natural Gas
Convenience
One main reason people choose natural gas is convenience. They don't have to monitor deliveries and tank gauges. There's no need to sign a contract every year and possibly weigh various options to compare prices.
Budget Invoicing
Utility companies offer budget invoicing for consistent monthly billing. They divide up the year's usage into 12 equal monthly payments and make adjustments as needed. That prevents spikes in cost over the winter.
Aesthetics
Another reason is disliking a big fuel tank on the property. Some homeowners may think the container is unattractive, especially if neighbors and people going by can see it. Whether the tank is indoors or outside, members of the household might always feel a little nervous about the possibility of a leak.
When It's Time to Schedule Installation
Waiting until the furnace is nearing the end of its expected lifespan is sensible. It's true that newer equipment is more energy-efficient, but recouping the cost of the furnace with utility bill savings takes a long time. When these homeowners are ready for a new heating system, they may contact a contractor and discuss the possibilities. For more information, contact a furnace installation service.
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