There are several significant decisions to make when choosing a new furnace for your home. You don't want a heating system that will simply get the job done—you want one that will do so affordably and efficiently. The main choice boils down to oil and gas furnaces, two areas of expertise at Rick Ogden Heating & Air Conditioning of Loveland, OH. Here, these HVAC professionals answer three commonly asked questions on this popular pair of products.

Oil Vs. Gas Furnaces: 3 Frequently Asked Questions

Which Has a Higher Efficiency Rating?

Efficiency is the number one concern of most homeowners looking to buy a new furnace. After all, a unit with a poor Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating will end up costing you more in the long run. While gas units tend to run more efficiently than oil models, the units themselves cost more upfront. Oil furnace AFUE ratings hover between 80% and 90%, while gas furnace AFUE ratings range anywhere from 89% to 98%. 

How Much Does Fuel Cost? 

As far as market prices go, oil tends to fluctuate more than natural gas. While you'll end up spending less money per year on gas, remember that oil is a clean fuel that produces nearly zero emissions. When you take that into account—along with the potential for lower average prices in your area—oil might be the more attractive option.

What Kind of Maintenance Is Required? 

The amount of maintenance needed for oil and gas furnaces coincides with their respective level of heat per BTU (British Thermal Unit), which is a unit of measurement for energy. Oil furnaces accumulate dirt and soot buildup over time, so you need to clean them and replace their filters on a regular basis. While gas furnaces require less maintenance, they provide less heat per BTU than oil alternatives. 

As you may have noticed, there's no shortage of pros and cons between oil and gas fuels. Both are excellent options, and your decision may come down to availability and affordability alone. When it comes to oil furnaces, Rick Ogden Heating & Air Conditioning is one of the only companies in the Tri-State area that can clean and service them with care. Visit the website for a closer look at their services, and call (513) 683-3714 to schedule an appointment today.