Seeing your energy bill skyrocket during winter is never fun. As a homeowner, finding an affordable way to warm your house is a top priority. The cheapest way to heat a house is to install either propane or natural gas furnaces.
This short guide explores the pros and cons of propane and natural gas furnaces to help you make an informed, budget-friendly heating installation decision. Get ready to stay cozy this winter without draining your bank account!
Propane Furnaces
Propane furnaces offer an efficient heating solution for homes that lack access to natural gas lines.
Thanks to recent technological advancements, propane has become even more cost-effective and can compete with natural gas pricing in many regions.
Benefits of Propane Gas
Propane doesn’t rely on extensive infrastructure like natural gas. Homeowners can get help with propane tank installation and maintenance from qualified local propane providers.
Drawbacks of Propane Gas
Propane tends to cost more per BTU than natural gas. But it’s your cheapest option if you don’t have access to a natural gas line.
Natural Gas Furnaces
Does your home have access to a natural gas line? Lucky you! A natural gas furnace is the cheapest way to heat your home.
Benefits of Natural Gas
Natural gas furnaces have low energy costs for heating homes that already have natural gas lines installed. New high-efficiency natural gas models can even offer AFUE ratings of over 90%.
But if your home doesn’t have access to a natural gas line, you’re out of luck.
Drawbacks of Natural Gas
Natural gas is subject to potential supply and price fluctuations. Natural gas leaks and repairs can be costly to homeowners.
Comparing Efficiency and Costs
When it comes to heating efficiency, propane and natural gas heating are closely matched. The exact efficiency rating depends on the age and model. Newer systems of both types can offer over 90% AFUE ratings.
On average, natural gas is 25-50% cheaper than electricity per BTU. Propane tends to cost about 50% more than natural gas per BTU.
However, propane remains competitive with natural gas prices in many areas. Propane also benefits rural or suburban locations that lack natural gas infrastructure.
Other Factors to Consider
The cheapest heating option depends on more than just fuel type. You can make a big difference in your home’s heating costs with some simple changes.
- Home insulation level
- Programmable thermostat settings
- HVAC system age and condition
Upgrading insulation, adjusting thermostat habits, and replacing old equipment with new efficient models can drastically reduce costs for any heating system.
The Cheapest Way to Heat a House
A natural gas furnace offers the most affordable heating option for most homes with existing natural gas lines. But for everyone else, propane furnaces give homeowners an efficient and cost-effective alternative.
If you’re looking for the cheapest way to heat a house, get quotes from local experts on both natural gas and propane systems. They can help assess your home’s unique needs and find the most budget-friendly fit.
Want to dig deeper into winterizing your home while saving money? Check out related articles for savvy homeowners seeking comfort and value from their HVAC systems. Stay warm on a budget this winter!