Home Improvement

3 Tips for Converting From Oil to Gas Heat

More homeowners are choosing to switch from oil to natural gas or propane heating systems. In some cases, environmental concerns drive the decision as people consider the higher efficiency of modern gas furnaces. In others, the rising cost of home heating oil is a primary factor. Whatever your reasons for making the switch, follow these three tips for a smooth transition. 

1. Locate and Remove Any Old Tanks

Although there are relatively few homes that still rely on oil for home heating purposes, the ones that do — or have in the past — will have a storage tank somewhere on the property. You probably know exactly where the current one is; however, there may be other, out of service tanks located on the property that you do not know about. Now is the time to locate them and have them removed. Work with a professional that offers oil tank services NY to have them safely removed and disposed of. 

2. Size Your New System Appropriately

It is difficult to compare oil and gas furnaces when trying to determine the correct size for your home. Start by comparing BTUs of your existing unit and newer models. There are several online calculators that can help you determine how many you need based on your climate zone and the square footage being heated. If you are on the line, it is usually a good idea to go with the larger system.   

3. Mark Any Underground Gas Lines

Gas lines pose a potential safety hazard if they are unmarked. Locate all lines and use flags or markers to indicate where they are buried. This will help if you avoid damaging them if you do any landscaping in the areas down the road.

Safely removing old oil tanks and marking new gas lines make the transition to a new fuel type safer. Sizing your new system appropriately will help it operate more efficiently and potentially prolong its life span. 

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