If you’re looking for a new furnace to battle the Wisconsin winter, you’ll need to choose between replacing your current system with a natural gas or oil model. While both fuels are popular resources for reliable heat, each of these options offers unique pros and cons. To help you decide what type of heating equipment to install in your home, here are a few important differences between oil and gas furnaces that you should know before you buy.

Oil vs. Gas Furnaces

Equipment Costs & Maintenance

In terms of upfront equipment costs, oil furnaces are usually much cheaper than gas heating systems. But while oil may allow for a more affordable installation, this fuel produces emissions that can require more equipment maintenance and repairs over time. Gas, by contrast, burns clean and places less wear and tear on the furnace—a benefit that can extend the life of your system and reduce total repair needs.

Heat Output

Compared to gas, oil offers more heat per BTU. As such, it can produce more heat in a quicker amount of time. While this type of performance may not make a difference in many homes, it can prove beneficial in larger properties, which are typically more difficult to heat.

Efficiency

If you want to get the most out of your fuel, you’ll want to choose a high-efficiency furnace—a characteristic that’s defined by the product’s Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency® (AFUE) rating. Although modern equipment tends to deliver optimal efficiency over older solutions, oil systems have AFUE ratings that are slightly lower than that of gas furnaces.

Fuel Costs

Depending on supply and other market conditions, the price of oil and gas can rise and fall throughout the year. In general, however, natural gas is a more stable fuel, as it is widely available and sourced throughout the United States. As a result, gas is usually somewhat cheaper than oil.

Fuel Access

To benefit from a gas furnace, your home must be served by a municipal natural gas line. Oil models, on the other hand, don’t require outside infrastructure. They will, however, require a fuel storage tank that must be refilled regularly.

When you’re ready to find the right furnace for your home, turn to Donovan & Jorgensen for expert assistance. Serving the Greater Milwaukee, WI, area for more than 30 years, this experienced heating contractor will introduce you to diverse equipment options that deliver optimal performance. To learn more about their services, visit this New Berlin-based HVAC contractor online.