When you're choosing a home heating fuel, you have a variety of options. Gas is the most common heating method, with about 61% of U.S. homes using it, but oil and electricity are two other popular home heating methods. You might wonder how these other fuels stack up against the leader in terms of price. However, one of the biggest reasons natural gas is so popular is its affordability.

Electric

Comparing fuels can be tricky since they're often sold in different units. However, electric heat is almost always considerably more expensive than heat produced by burning natural gas. Heat and cooling production are measured in British thermal units (BTU). Depending on the efficiency of your furnace, you should expect to pay three to five times as much for electric heat as you would the same BTU output for natural gas. However, the cost of a new electric furnace is considerably more affordable than a gas furnace. Thus, while the initial costs of gas heat are higher, it provides the long-term advantage.

Oil

Heating oil costs fluctuate as petroleum prices rise and fall, so the differential between natural gas and oil heat will vary as prices change. However, oil heat generally costs two to three times as much as natural gas to produce the same BTU output. The main advantage of oil heat is that the furnace lasts considerably longer—sometimes twice as long. However, the better efficiency of a gas furnace reduces fuel consumption and lowers the cost of heating even further.

While each heating unit has its own specific pros and cons, natural gas is the more cost-effective option. For an exceptional price and reliable gas delivery, contact Superior Gas in Roanoke, AL. This family-owned business has nearly 70 years of experience and industry expertise. Visit their website to submit a contact request form, or call (256) 396-2428 to discuss your options with a friendly, helpful sales representative.