Cost of changing oil heat to gas

October 10, 2015

New Jersey homeowners and business owners currently using heating oil may be considering switching to natural gas. There are a number of reasons why people often consider making the switch. First of all, natural gas is cheaper. Only a few years ago, heating oil prices were upwards of twice as much as natural gas prices. However, this is quickly changing – heating oil prices have plummeted over the last year, to the point where prices are only 50 percent as much natural gas prices.

Although cheaper and cleaner burning, natural gas has its drawbacks as well. Although considered a clean energy source, natural gas extraction techniques are under harsh scrutiny by regulators and environmentalist groups. Despite being cheaper than heating oil, the costs of switching from heating oil to natural gas can be quite expensive – to the point where it’s not worth the effort.

The Costs of Converting From Heating Oil to Natural Gas

Not only is the cost of heating oil dropping significantly, but current heating oil systems burn oil at a much more efficient and cleaner rate than they ever did before. Then there are the costs of actually converting from one heating system to another that have to be considered. The following are just a few of the costs that a homeowner or business owner will have to pay for when converting from heating oil to natural gas:

  • Heating system – Not only will New Jersey homeowners and business owners have to pay to switch heating systems, which may include having to purchase a new boiler or furnace and a new water heater, but heating systems that use heating oil as their fuel are cheaper. And this is without considering the fact that heating oil systems typically have a longer lifespan – they often last for an average of 30 years or more, whereas the lifespan of a natural gas furnace is usually between 11 and 14 years.
  • Oil tank removal – Anyone that is converting to natural gas is going to want to remove the oil tank from their property, which will require a permit from the city (that can cost upwards of $300) to do. The actual cost of removing the oil tank can cost upwards of $2,000 – and this is if the tank has no issues with leaks. Then there’s the cost of re-landscaping the property after the oil tank has been removed.
  • Gas line installation – In order to have gas delivered into the home or business, a gas line is required. The costs will vary depending on the complexity of the job, the materials, the labor and how long the gas line runs. It will generally cost around $15 to $25 a foot covering all facets of the job.

Related Post: The Most Energy Efficient Home Heating Sources

 Oil to Gas Conversions in New Jersey

Heating oil systems have become much more efficient over the years, and converting to a natural gas system can be very expensive, which means that converting from heating oil to gas is probably not worth it. For information about oil to gas conversion services in Northern New Jersey, contact Woolley Home Solutions today.


Cost of Oil to Gas Conversion in Connecticut

Serving Homes & Businesses in New Haven & Fairfield Counties

Even though studies conclude that the cost of using natural gas as a heating fuel is more affordable than oil, homeowners with oil-fired systems are still concerned about the oil to gas conversion cost. While the cost of conversion from oil to gas represents a significant initial investment, there are distinct short and long-term advantages to converting now. With the current cost of oil roughly doubling the cost of natural gas, exploring an oil to gas conversion with a Tri-City Heating and Cooling expert and considering the advantages of converting can make the decision to switch easier.

Call (203) 303-5700 to learn more about the cost of oil to gas conversion in Connecticut. Our gas line techs are here to help.

Oil to Gas Conversion Is Cost-Effective

Because no two homes are alike, there is no fixed charge for making the conversion. The unique conditions present in each home mean different heating options with varying costs will be required. Our experts will evaluate your home to determine the most efficient heating solution for your situation. In most cases, high-efficiency systems are recommended as they will save consumers the most in future fuel costs. The oil to gas conversion cost for the most efficient heating appliances installed will generally range from $5,000 to $10,000, but that cost is reduced significantly by available financing and rebate incentives.

Anticipating Additional Costs

At Tri-City Heating and Cooling, we can assess the overall condition of all system components when evaluating a home’s heating needs.

There are several items that may factor in to the cost of an oil to gas conversion, including:

  • A gas line from the meter to the gas furnace: The cost will depend entirely on the distance to the meter and if there is anything interfering with the installation.
  • Ductwork improvements: Some older ducts may be too inefficient to allow homeowners to enjoy the full benefits of their new high-efficiency system. Upgrades may be recommended to reduce system heat loss and improve airflow efficiency.
  • Chimney construction or improvement: Older homes may not have a code-compliant chimney installed. Upgrades to meet current building regulations may be required.
  • A quality, programmable thermostat: While typical thermostats are often sufficient to meet a family’s needs, modern thermostats allow more flexibility and can provide additional fuel savings over time. Our team can discuss your options and explain the available thermostats and their advantages.

Of course, each situation is different and must be evaluated individually. Our heating professionals work with homeowners to identify both existing and potential future needs with an eye toward providing long-term savings. The cost of oil to gas conversion will vary from one home to another, but the net result is that homeowners will save money when compared to using oil.

Available Financing Options

The oil to gas conversion cost also depends on how consumers elect to finance the project. While some homeowners may opt to pay the entire cost at the time of installation, most will find it beneficial to take advantage of financing programs currently available. Those programs offer low-interest financing to make converting to natural gas affordable. Before deciding to get by for another winter with an oil-fired heating system, consider the advantages of converting now using one of the convenient financing programs offered.

Our team works hard to bring down the cost of oil to gas conversion in Connecticut.
Call us or contact us online to learn more.

How much does it cost to convert oil heat to gas?

However, to give you a ballpark figure, many homeowners may expect to pay anywhere from $6,000 – $15,000 to switch from an oil to a gas-fired heating system.

Is converting from oil to gas worth it?

The most important reason you should convert oil to gas is because of the cost. The cost of natural gas is about half the cost of home heating oil. Also, while home heating oil prices can fluctuate wildly, natural gas prices do not. Over time, that is a huge saving for your family.

Can you switch from oil heat to gas?

It is possible to convert an oil burner to natural gas, yes. It would require purchasing a converter and having it professionally installed. However, it's important to consider a few other things before going that route. It's recommended that you replace your boiler or furnace approximately every 15 years.

Is it cheaper to heat your house with gas or oil?

Fuel Costs Oil furnaces tend to cost more than natural gas heating overall. However, heating oil prices are subject to more supply and demand fluctuations than natural gas.