Oil, Gas and Energy Value in Hampshire County

Most heating guys know that two equally sized appliances (one being gas, the other oil) will have different net heating outputs. Its because oil has a heating value of 140,000 BTU per gallon, and natural gas has a heating value of 100,000 BTU per cubic foot. Not only is the oil delivering more energy, but because the o2 readings are lesser with the oil, clearly the flame is hotter, which translates into greater heat transfer.

So, in our example, clearly the oil fired appliance with its greater energy value will offer more deliverable heating energy. It become less obvious however when the example isnt so easy and clear. Unfortunately, gas technicians generally dont have the tools to check where the o2 reading is at, whether 4 or 5% (great) or 10 or 11% (not good). Combustion is simple once understood.

There are many pros and cons to what type of fuel you choose, and if you ask your fuel dealer you just might get a skewed answer (if our company sold fuel, we would have an honest agenda to sell our fuel). Talk with an installer that is licensed for both gas and oil for the best options for your home.