If you are looking for ways to save money on your bills, converting from oil to gas heating is a smart decision. However, you first need to look at the upfront cost of switching to see if it is cost-efficient in the long run. We’ll give you the numbers you need to make a smart, informed decision.
First, make sure you can convert to gas in your local area. You need a gas main under your street to convert to gas. If you don’t have a gas main, you may be able to get one by banding together with your neighbors and making a request to your local utility company.
How Much Does It Cost to Convert From Oil to Gas Heating?
It depends on who you ask and your particular situation. According to CBS Boston, switching to a natural gas forced hot air system can cost between $4,500 and $7,000. In addition, according to New England Cable News, conversions will run a household $3,500 – $10,000. So you can see a wide swing between $3,500 and $10,000.
Oil to Gas Heating Conversion Factors
1) Main Gas Line Installation On Your Property
New gas line installation can cost about $1,000. But your utility company may do this for free.
2) The Age of Your Heating System:
“According to NSTAR, if your heating system is over 10 years old, you’ll need a new system. With installation, that can cost you between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on the efficiency of the new heating system.”
3) If You Need a Chimney Liner Installed:
Since moisture in the gas exhaust can harm the lining of your chimney’s masonry, you may have to pay $750 to $2,000 for a chimney liner when you are converting from oil to gas heating. The liner won’t be needed if you’re getting a high-efficiency (condensing) furnace.
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4) What Incentives You’ll Take Advantage Of
Check out NSTAR’s list of rebates and credits for switching to gas. These can cut hundreds of dollars off the upfront cost. How much can converting from oil to gas heating save you each year? Converting from oil to gas heating can save you about $1,077 a year.
The New England Cable News reports that “the average household in the Northeast will spend $1,037 for natural gas this winter as opposed to $2,114 for heating oil,” according to forecasts by the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Of course, this is just a forecast. Actual savings depends on your usage and the ongoing changes in the cost of natural gas and oil.
There’s also the money you’ll save from lower maintenance costs. By converting to gas you won’t need to change oil filters and nozzles, or get an annual chimney cleaning.
How Is Gas More Convenient and Reliable than Oil?
Oil needs to be trucked to your home to fill up the oil tank. Those truck deliveries can be delayed due to severe weather conditions and other factors. On the other hand, gas is piped directly and conveniently to your home.
So, Should You Switch?
Answer these questions:
- How much would it cost for you to switch? Get a few estimates from HVAC contractors.
- What incentives can you take advantage of? Use these to subtract from the estimate cost you receive.
- How long would it take to recoup the cost? If it’s longer than you’re going to be living in your home, converting may not be worth it.
Let’s say converting to gas costs you $5,000. Assuming you’ll save $1,077 a year, it’ll take less than 5 years to recoup the switching cost. If you’re going to live your home for the next 10 years, converting to gas makes financial sense.
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How to Convert from Oil to Gas
So, there you go! Now you have a solid plan for figuring out if you should convert from oil to gas.
Heating Repair and Installation Services
If you want to convert from an oil heater to a gas system, schedule an appointment with our team. Our technicians provide exceptional heating repair and heating replacement services for homeowners in areas of Massachusetts like Sutton, Westborough, and Framingham. In addition, our team provides other types of HVAC services such as boiler maintenance, furnace repair, and air conditioning installation. Give our professionals a call by phone at (508) 301-1767 to receive support with a malfunctioning heating system.