When you live in Alaska, your choice of heating fuel is important because of the intensity and length of the cold season. Two of the most popular heating choices are home heating oil and natural gas. If you aren’t sure which type of heating fuel is a better fit for you, below is a comparison of these two options.

Advantages of Natural Gas

Natural gas is the most popular home heating fuel in the country. In fact, it’s used in about half of all U.S. homes, in part because many municipal utility services provide gas delivery, making this option extremely convenient for many people. However, residents without this service lack this convenience, making heating oil an appealing competitive option.

Advantages of Home Heating Oil

Although heating oil costs more than natural gas per gallon, it burns hotter than natural gas does and therefore uses less fuel — resulting in more value for the price you pay. It heats your home more quickly and keeps it feeling cozier. If you have an installed oil furnace, you’re likely better off keeping it rather than switching the unit for a gas burner. This is particularly true because the average lifespan of a gas furnace is about 12 years while the average life of an oil burner is nearly 30 years. Unlike natural gas, which is explosive, home heating oil is safer to use. It won’t ignite without help from an advanced, high-tech burner. 

If you've chosen home heating oil to fuel your home, contact Ike's Fuel in Douglas, AK for kerosene and oil delivery. They are the only independent family-owned supplier in Greater Juneau, and they've been in business for nearly 50 years. They also carry a selection of oil tanks for sale. Visit their website to connect with them online or call (907) 364-3420 to arrange a consultation.