Heating oil and natural gas are two of the most common fuel sources for home furnaces, but they are not interchangeable. Equipment designed for oil heating won’t work with gas, and vice versa. If you’re considering your home furnace options, it pays to be informed about the differences between the two fuel sources.

Best Oil, based in Waterbury, CT, has been delivering oil heating to Connecticut families since 1936. Below, this longstanding fuel company explains a few key differences between gas and oil heating.

Connecticut Fuel Company Explains 5 Differences Between Gas & Oil Heating

1. Oil Heating Is Extremely Safe

Whereas a natural gas leak can be a serious respiratory hazard and pose a risk of explosion, oil heating systems are quite safe. Fuel for oil heating remains liquid at normal temperatures and doesn’t ignite below 140 degrees Fahrenheit, so an oil-burning home furnace is less of a risk. Serious breakdowns in oil furnaces are also relatively easy for fuel companies to identify and repair.

2. Oil Heating Systems Typically Last Longer

Partly because of the ease of repair, most oil heating systems last significantly longer than their gas-burning counterparts. Periodic checkups on delivery from the fuel company can keep an oil furnace running efficiently for 30 years or more.

3. Distribution Channels Differ

Natural gas may typically be delivered via pipeline by a centralized utility, whereas oil heating fuel is kept on your premises in a tank you control. Consumers have the option to choose between fuel companies for oil deliveries, offering a greater level of control over pricing and supply.

4. Converting Between Fuel Types Can Be Expensive

Because the equipment for oil heating won’t work with gas or vice versa, switching fuel types can be expensive. A new home furnace along with pipes, exhaust, and duct work can run a homeowner multiple thousands of dollars.

5. Oil Heating Technology Continues To Improve

Advances in technology have improved efficiency in oil-burning home furnaces in recent decades. If you replace an old oil heating system with a newer furnace, you’ll likely experience significant efficiency gains and lower heating costs even with the same fuel type.

Whether you’re considering converting your home furnace to oil heating or seeking a fuel company to supply your existing heating system, turn to Best Oil, a Connecticut institution for eight decades and counting. Visit their website to find out more about their services, or call (203) 574-4050 today to schedule a delivery. You can also find the company on Facebook and Twitter.