Comments on: Oil Vs. Propane Fuel Calculator

By: Todd

Todd — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 13:50:07 +0000

It’s still true. Both oil and propane go up and down depending on market demand and speculation. The choice between oil and propane should really be made on some other factors like tanks, efficiency and other fuel use/type in home.

Radiant can be used in almost any heating type.

Depending on where you live heat pumps can be another feasible system. However, if you live in an area with extreme cold I’d be cautious about how well they might work on really cold days.

By: Brigitte

Brigitte — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 02:54:32 +0000

We are looking to buy a 2000 sq ft home that needs a new heating system. Currently it has oil, no natural gas is available. Is it still true that propane and oil are comparable in price in this market? What do you know about other heating systems, such as radiant and/or heat pumps and/or geofuel.

By: Todd

Todd — Sat, 05 Feb 2011 18:17:37 +0000

Denise – There is a link in the article to the Excel spreadsheet. The calculator will only help you compare the cost of oil vs propane, not electric and pellets vs oil or propane.

By: Denise

Denise — Sat, 05 Feb 2011 17:51:12 +0000

I live in an all electric home – supplemented by pellets. I am looking into propane or oil to make life easier. Problem – I don’t want to make heating my home more expensive! Do you think switching to propane or oil would be cheaper? Please send me your oil/propane calculator!

Thanks.

By: Dave

Dave — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 00:14:18 +0000

Like many others on this thread, I’m evaluating whether to replace my 26 year old furnace with another oil one or a propane system. One thing I am looking into is whether the tax credit would apply to any oil furnaces. I believe they need to be 90%+ efficient and I haven’t seen anything out there along those lines. I’m thinking that a highly efficient propane system coupled with a tax credit may be the way to go and the credit should cover the tank burial. Any feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks

By: Todd

Todd — Sat, 05 Jun 2010 23:02:42 +0000

Nick – First off I think your insurance agent is probably confused/mis-informed. Buried propane tanks are extremely safe for a couple reasons. First off the tank is filled with liquid propane which is quite stable and safe. Secondly, I think the agent may be confusing a buried oil tank with propane. Buried oil tanks often have to have a double layer tank along with some type of containment.

I’ve dealt with dozens of buried tanks on both residential and commercial projects and I’ve never heard this before. I’d start with your propane supplier and mention the insurance companies concerns. I think you can resolve this quickly.

Good luck.