Purchasing a new furnace might be in your best interest if you are constantly experiencing issues such as cold spots in rooms, strange noises, or rising energy costs. If you have found yourself in this situation, you must choose the right kind of furnace to meet your needs for years to come. We will walk you through the advantages and disadvantages of oil furnaces vs gas systems to make your decision easier.
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Oil vs. Natural Gas Heating: What’s the Better System?
Now that you are in the market for a new furnace, it’s important to weigh your options. Oil and gas furnaces come with unique factors that you should consider before committing to one or the other. Ask yourself questions like:
Which Furnace Is Safer?
If safety is a major concern, you should turn your attention to oil furnaces. Both furnaces come with their own safety risks, but oil furnaces are notoriously safer than gas furnaces due to their lack of carbon monoxide.
Which Furnace Is More Cost-Effective?
When you are comparing the cost of oil vs natural gas heating systems, you need to figure out whether you want to pay more upfront or over time. Oil furnaces will cost more compared to gas furnaces due to their strict maintenance schedule. Gas furnaces will cost you less in the long run.
Which Furnace Is More Efficient?
A higher Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) Rating suggests better energy efficiency. Gas furnaces are typically more efficient than oil systems, with an AFUE rating between 89% to 90%. Oil furnaces usually have a rating between 80% to 90%.
Pros and Cons of Gas Furnaces
Advantages
Gas furnaces are typically found in larger cities or populated areas. This is because utility companies are easily accessible should there be an issue. These furnaces are also more affordable, more energy efficient, and won’t need as much maintenance as oil units.
Disadvantages
We can’t talk about the pros of gas furnaces without the cons. Gas furnaces run the risk of carbon monoxide leaks, which can result in dangerous or even deadly outcomes. These furnaces can also consume a lot of energy while emitting poor indoor air quality due to clogged filters.
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Pros and Cons of Oil Furnaces
Advantages
If you’re concerned about the safety of your household, then an oil furnace might be right for you. Oil furnaces don’t release carbon monoxide, which means you don’t have to worry about health risks. Oil furnaces are also completely controlled by you, meaning you don’t have to worry about utility companies.
Disadvantages
Oil furnaces are more expensive than gas furnaces. They can also be messy due to their use of oil. If you are analyzing the advantages and differences between oil furnaces vs gas systems, it’s important to know that you may need to be prepared to maintain your oil furnace regularly. Oil furnaces require much more maintenance and cleaning than gas.
Common Gas Furnace Problems
Gas furnaces are also susceptible to malfunctions. Contact a professional if you’re experiencing any of the following issues with your gas heating system:
- It Won’t Start
- It’s Blowing Cold Air
- The Draft Motor Is Running, but the Furnace Isn’t Starting
- It’s Performing Short Heating Cycles
Common Oil Furnace Problems
The signs of a faulty furnace can be extremely obvious or highly inconspicuous. Your oil furnace probably needs a professional furnace repair if:
- It’s Not Turning On
- It’s Not Producing Enough Heat
- It’s Consuming a High Amount of Fuel
- It’s Not Producing Flames
Furnace Repair and Replacement Services
There is no need to feel uncomfortable in your own home throughout the cold months of the year. Our team professionals offer comprehensive HVAC repair services in Paterson, NJ and other locations. Our staff has the tools required to fix and replace a broken oil or gas furnace in your house. We provide reputable furnace repair services for homeowners in your local area and are committed to keeping your house safe throughout the winter.
We guarantee that your furnace will be working properly before we leave your property. With 24-hour emergency services, you can count on us to never leave you in the cold. Stay warm this winter and contact us by phone at (732) 638-4317 or book an appointment online to receive help with a malfunctioning oil or gas furnace in your house.