Can I convert my fuel oil furnace to propane?

Almost any existing oil burner can be converted to propane gas with the Carlin Conversion Gas Burner by the pros at Combined Energy Services. When used for year-round heating, special programs that subsidize the cost of the conversion are available, call 800-874-1975 for details.

Is it worth switching from oil to propane?

Based on local energy prices, simply converting from oil to propane offers about 18 percent savings. Jumping from a standard boiler to a high-efficiency condensing propane unit brings the efficiency of the equipment from 82 percent to 96 percent.

Can you convert a natural gas furnace to a propane furnace?

Can you convert a natural gas furnace to run on propane? Yes. Converting from natural gas to propane as a fuel source is a matter of a conversion kit that compensates for the differing pressure needed to properly operate the unit.

Is oil furnace better than propane?

When it comes to heating efficiency, oil is the more efficient fuel. Oil contains ~137,000 BTUs per gallon, while propane contains ~91,000 BTUs per gallon, resulting in greater energy output when used for heating. In general, propane furnaces are able to reach much higher efficiency levels than oil furnaces.

What is the cost to convert from oil to propane?

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. And according to New England Cable News, conversions will run a household $3,500-$10,000.

Is it cheaper to heat with electricity or propane?

Propane is cheaper than electric: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating a home in the U.S. with a propane heating system in recent years has cost far less than heating with an electric system. Reliable propane works when and where other energy sources don’t – which makes it quite versatile.

How much does it cost to fill a 500 gallon propane tank?

Cost To Fill You can expect to pay an average of $600, or even more, to fill your 500 gallon propane tank. The total cost can vary based on the market price of propane at any given time. Many homeowners realize that this cost is worth it as a 500 gallon tank is enough to power all home appliances.

What are the disadvantages of propane?

Propane is quite a safe energy source, but it does have risks. It is combustible, and as with any flammable gas a leak can be potentially devastating. It is heavier than air, so any propane leak in an enclosed area will sink and become concentrated at the floor level, where it may avoid detection.

Will converting from oil to gas increase home value?

According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), homes with natural gas have a 4% higher resale value than those with oil or propane. In response, many neighborhoods, where there are no pre-existing natural gas pipelines, are campaigning to bring natural gas to their streets.

What happens if you run a natural gas furnace on propane?

On the other hand, running natural gas through an appliance designed for propane will result in an undersized flame – or no flame at all – which will render the appliance unable to perform its desired function.

How do you tell if a furnace has been converted to propane?

The easiest way to tell if it has been converted is to connect the gas line and light a top burner. If it has been converted the flame on the burner will be very low. You might have to light it with a match to get it to burn.

Is natural gas and propane interchangeable?

The two are not interchangeable; each fuel source requires special gas utilization fittings. Natural gas is a utility that is only available in certain areas, bringing the gas into the home via underground pipes. Propane is stored in tanks that need periodic refilling and replacement.

Do you need a chimney for a propane furnace?

This type of furnace is sometimes called “direct vent” because it can be vented through an exterior wall. No chimney is necessary.

How efficient are propane furnaces?

To be considered a high efficiency unit, a propane or gas furnace typically achieves at least 90% AFUE and usually includes a primary and secondary (or condensing) heat exchanger.

How much does it cost to put in a propane furnace?

Finally, propane furnace prices fall somewhere between gas and oil. In a 2000 square foot home, a propane furnace can run anywhere from $3000 to $5,000 with installation included or between $800 and $2,000 for the furnace alone.