Cost of Oil to Gas Conversion in Connecticut
Serving Homes & Businesses in New Haven & Fairfield Counties
Even though studies conclude that the cost of using natural gas as a heating fuel is more affordable than oil, homeowners with oil-fired systems are still concerned about the oil to gas conversion cost. While the cost of conversion from oil to gas represents a significant initial investment, there are distinct short and long-term advantages to converting now. With the current cost of oil roughly doubling the cost of natural gas, exploring an oil to gas conversion with a Tri-City Heating and Cooling expert and considering the advantages of converting can make the decision to switch easier.
Call (203) 303-5700 to learn more about the cost of oil to gas conversion in Connecticut. Our gas line techs are here to help.
Oil to Gas Conversion Is Cost-Effective
Because no two homes are alike, there is no fixed charge for making the conversion. The unique conditions present in each home mean different heating options with varying costs will be required. Our experts will evaluate your home to determine the most efficient heating solution for your situation. In most cases, high-efficiency systems are recommended as they will save consumers the most in future fuel costs. The oil to gas conversion cost for the most efficient heating appliances installed will generally range from $5,000 to $10,000, but that cost is reduced significantly by available financing and rebate incentives.
Anticipating Additional Costs
At Tri-City Heating and Cooling, we can assess the overall condition of all system components when evaluating a home’s heating needs.
There are several items that may factor in to the cost of an oil to gas conversion, including:
- A gas line from the meter to the gas furnace: The cost will depend entirely on the distance to the meter and if there is anything interfering with the installation.
- Ductwork improvements: Some older ducts may be too inefficient to allow homeowners to enjoy the full benefits of their new high-efficiency system. Upgrades may be recommended to reduce system heat loss and improve airflow efficiency.
- Chimney construction or improvement: Older homes may not have a code-compliant chimney installed. Upgrades to meet current building regulations may be required.
- A quality, programmable thermostat: While typical thermostats are often sufficient to meet a family’s needs, modern thermostats allow more flexibility and can provide additional fuel savings over time. Our team can discuss your options and explain the available thermostats and their advantages.
Of course, each situation is different and must be evaluated individually. Our heating professionals work with homeowners to identify both existing and potential future needs with an eye toward providing long-term savings. The cost of oil to gas conversion will vary from one home to another, but the net result is that homeowners will save money when compared to using oil.
Available Financing Options
The oil to gas conversion cost also depends on how consumers elect to finance the project. While some homeowners may opt to pay the entire cost at the time of installation, most will find it beneficial to take advantage of financing programs currently available. Those programs offer low-interest financing to make converting to natural gas affordable. Before deciding to get by for another winter with an oil-fired heating system, consider the advantages of converting now using one of the convenient financing programs offered.
Our team works hard to bring down the cost of oil to gas conversion in Connecticut.
Call us or contact us online to learn more.
Considering switching to gas heat from oil?
You can expect the cost to start somewhere around $17,500.
The actual cost depends on what your particular project entails. You see, switching from oil to gas may require various alterations, including…
Adding a gas line
Installing a chimney liner
Updating your appliances
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Removing the old oil tank
The contractor you choose
Let’s go into more detail about each of these factors so you get a better understanding of how much this project may cost you if you decide to make the switch ...
Want a fair cost estimate for your home? Give us a call. We’ll send over a heating expert to assess your home and give you a quote.
Schedule estimate
Factors that affect how much you’ll pay to convert from oil to gas
Adding a gas line
If your home doesn’t already have a gas line, you’ll need a utility company to add one to your house. You see, most towns/areas have what’s called “gas mains” buried underground. These gas mains store large amounts of natural gas. But in order to get that gas into your home (to fuel your gas appliances), you need a smaller pipe that runs from the gas mains to your home.
Not sure if you already have a gas line at your home? Well, you can check by searching for your home's gas meter. Gas meters measure the amount of gas your home uses and, therefore, are only installed on homes that actually have gas lines.
Don’t see a gas meter? Then you might not have a gas line installed at your home and will need to contact a utility company in your area to install one. The good news? Some utility companies will waive the fee to add a gas line if you agree to use them as your gas provider.
Installing your chimney lining
When you make the switch from oil to gas, you may also need your chimney lined to prevent carbon monoxide and other flue gases from leaking into your home. You see, most homes’ oil heating appliances actually use the chimney to vent their exhaust fuels, which can produce sulphur deposits inside your chimney.
The problem is that, once you switch to gas, the chemicals produced by gas appliances mix with those sulphur deposits. Together, the sulphur and combustion gases eventually deteriorate the inner lining of your chimney, which produces tiny cracks in the chimney. If left unchecked, dangerous gases can enter the home through those cracks in the chimney.
You can usually choose between these 3 types of relining:
Clay tile liners: These are the least expensive of the liners and can last 60+ years. However, these are best if you’re building a brand new fireplace, not as a replacement lining because they are so difficult to install. (The installer has to break through chimney walls every few feet to remove old flue tile and replace it with new tile, which is difficult in an already-built chimney—especially if it’s not straight.)
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Cast-in-place liners: These chimney liners consist of a material similar to concrete, which is poured down the chimney to create a barrier of insulation. Cast-in-place liners also last 60+ years and are a good choice for chimneys with structural problems since they also reinforce the chimney.
Stainless steel flue liners: Stainless steel flue liners are durable and easy to install, but they’re typically the most expensive out of all the liners. They last 15–20 years, and they often meet state and local venting codes.
Updating your appliances: Cost varies depending on appliances
In a residential application, you will most likely need to update your current appliances to a gas-fired appliance. Some units can be retrofitted with a powerful gas burner if the manufacturer and NYC DOB approve. In most cases, the equipment will need to be changed and pricing will vary based on system type and equipment selection and size.
Removing the old oil tank
When you switch to gas, you’ll need to remove your old oil tank because it’s a potential environmental hazard. This can be fairly costly, especially if your oil tank is located underground (though this is fairly rare in New York City).
The contractor you choose
The labor required to complete this oil-to-gas-conversion accounts
for the bulk of the overall cost.
As you get written estimates from different contractors about what they charge, beware of those who come in at super low prices. When it comes to getting a new boiler or furnace installed, what you get is what you pay for.
The bottom line? A cheap install price usually means poor work. And a poorly installed boiler or furnace just leads to more repairs and trouble down the road.
So when you’re looking at contractors, check out their online customer reviews to gauge if customers are satisfied with their work. Also, make sure that all contractors are licensed and insured and work for a company that’s been around for at least 10 years.
The switch from oil to gas heat: Is it worth it?
With such an expensive price tag, you’re probably wondering if it’s worth it to make the switch from oil to gas.
Well, it depends on the specifics of your home, but we usually think it is a good idea. Here’s why making the switch IS worth it:
Gas heating is less expensive compared to oil heating (both equipment AND fuel costs)
Gas heaters are usually more energy-efficient than oil heaters
Gas heating produces fewer emissions than oil, so it’s more environmentally friendly
However, as you decide if you should make the switch, ask yourself these 3 questions:
What’s the total cost to switch for my home? (Get a few estimates from trustworthy heating contractors to find out.)
Are there any tax credits or incentives I can take advantage of? These could make your overall cost cheaper.
How long would it take to recoup the cost of switching to gas? If it’s longer than you’re planning on living in your home, converting may not be worth it financially. One study found that New York City homeowners could pay back the cost of switching in 4.25 years.
Want a quote based on your New York home?
Give us a call and we’ll be happy to answer any questions about switching from oil to gas.
And if you’d like a quote, we can help you schedule an appointment with one of our trusted techs to visit your home and give you a project estimate.
Schedule estimate