Propane or Oil Heat: Compare Heating Oil, Propane & Oil Heat Costs

Posted on September 30th, 2016 by Devine Bros

Choosing Between Propane and Heating Oil to Heat Your Home

With the temperatures beginning to drop across Fairfield County, homeowners are starting to think about how they will keep warm this winter. Two of the most popular options for home heating are oil and propane; each offering their own unique set of advantages and disadvantages.

Heating Oil: A Reliable Heating Fuel for Your Home

Just like gasoline for your car, home heating oil is manufactured from crude oil, though it undergoes a different refinement process. Heating oil is an especially popular option for homeowners in New England, a region that accounts for more than 80% of the country’s total consumption.

Pros

• Burns hotter than propane, meaning less is needed to heat your home.

• Does not require a connection to a natural gas line.

• Non-explosive.

Cons

• Produces more emissions than natural gas.

• Oil furnaces require frequent cleaning.

• Volatile market leads to unpredictable pricing.

Propane: A Clean and Versatile Home Heating Solution

Unlike heating oil, which is a liquid, propane is a gas.

Pros

• More efficient than heating oil, meaning your furnace can convert a higher percentage of the fuel into heat.

• Certified by the Clean Air Act as a clean source of alternative fuel.

• Can be used for a variety of functions, such as space heating, water heating, cooking, clothes dryers, and more.

Cons

• Requires large tanks, which may be an unattractive addition to your yard.

• Because it is gaseous, it is more prone to leaking than oil.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home Heating Needs

How are you keeping warm this winter? Whether your heating system uses oil or propane, Devine Bros. can provide it at an affordable price. If you live in Fairfield County, Connecticut, give us a call at (203) 866-4421 to learn about our heating oil and propane delivery services.

FAQ About Propane or Oil Heat

Is oil heat better than propane?

Oil heat burns hotter than propane, which can make it a more effective option for colder climates. However, propane heating systems are generally more efficient and produce fewer emissions.

What are the disadvantages of propane heating?

Propane heating requires large propane tanks, which can be an eyesore. Additionally, propane is a gas, making it more prone to leaks compared to heating oil.

Is propane better for the environment than oil?

Yes, propane burns cleaner than heating oil, producing fewer carbon emissions. It is also certified as a clean alternative fuel by the Clean Air Act.

What lasts longer, propane or oil?

Heating oil burns more slowly than propane, meaning you may use less fuel over time. However, propane furnaces are more efficient, which can offset the difference in consumption.

What is the cheapest fuel to heat a house?

The cost of heating fuel varies depending on market conditions. Generally, heating oil and propane prices fluctuate, but propane tends to be more stable.

Is propane a good heat source?

Yes, propane is an efficient and versatile heating fuel that can be used for multiple household applications, including space heating, cooking, and water heating.

What is negative about propane?

The main drawbacks of propane are the need for large storage tanks and the potential for leaks. Additionally, propane prices can be higher than heating oil in some regions.

What are the disadvantages of oil heat?

Oil heat systems require frequent maintenance, produce more emissions than propane, and are subject to fluctuating market prices.

Is propane heat safe to breathe?

Yes, propane is considered safe when used properly. However, a propane leak can be dangerous, which is why propane has an added odorant to help detect leaks quickly.