If you’re thinking about switching fuels? Read this first. Propane and fuel oil are popular heating fuels, but they work differently, cost differently, and come with their own pros and cons. Some people swear by home heating oil, while others are making the switch to propane heating systems for their homes.
Propane vs. Fuel Oil for Home Heating: Which One Is Right for Your Home?
Which fuel keeps your home warmer, costs less, and gives you the most value in the long run? So which one is actually better?
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Long Island Homeowners Use Fuel Oil and Propane. Why?
If you live in Long Island, you’ve probably noticed that most homes run on fuel oil. That’s because older homes were built with oil furnaces and oil tanks, making home heating oil the standard choice for decades.
But lately, some homeowners have been switching to propane heating systems—especially in areas where natural gas isn’t available. Propane furnaces compared to oil furnaces are sometimes promoted as cleaner and more efficient, but does that actually make sense for Long Island?
1. Availability and Infrastructure
- Fuel oil is widely available across Long Island, and most homes already have heating oil tanks installed.
- Propane heating oil systems require a propane tank, and installing a new propane tank could be costly.
2. Heat Output and Efficiency
- Heating oil burns hotter than propane heat, meaning it provides more heat per gallon.
- Propane furnaces are known for their higher efficiency ratings, but they still produce less usable heat than oil heating systems.
3. Environmental Impact
- Heating oil emits carbon dioxide, but newer systems burn cleaner than older models.
- Scientists say that propane is more environmentally friendly than fuel oil due to lower emissions. While propane emits approximately 139.0 grams of carbon dioxide per kilogram of fuel burned, fuel oil emits about 161.3 grams of carbon dioxide per kilogram of fuel burned
So, if you’re looking for maximum heat output and an easy-to-maintain system, fuel oil is still the go-to heating fuel. But if environmental impact is your biggest concern, propane might be worth looking into.
Which One Costs More?
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), fuel oil has been more cost-effective in regions like Long Island due to local availability and infrastructure. However, propane prices fluctuate as much as home heating oil costs. Here’s what you need to know:
- Fuel oil prices can be volatile, especially in the winter when demand is high.
- Propane costs vary depending on the season and supply chain issues.
- Local fuel prices play a huge role—sometimes oil heat costs less, and sometimes propane heating oil wins out.
Gallon Compared: Heating Oil vs. Propane
A gallon comparison of heating oil and propane doesn’t tell the whole story because they burn at different rates.
| Fuel Type | BTU Output Per Gallon | Average Cost Per Gallon (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Home Heating Oil | 138,500 British Thermal Units (BTUs) | $4.00 per gallon |
| Propane Heat | 91,500 BTUs | $3.50 per gallon |
What it means: Even though propane costs less per gallon, heating oil produces more heat per gallon—so you might end up burning through propane faster, making oil heat cost less in the long run.
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Maintenance and Longevity
So, how do propane and oil compare when it comes to keeping your system running smoothly for years to come? Here’s a closer look at what you should expect:
1. Maintenance Costs and Requirements
- Oil furnaces require more frequent maintenance, including cleaning out oil combustion byproducts.
- Propane furnaces produce less soot, which means less maintenance over time.
2. Lifespan of Heating Systems
- A well-maintained oil heating system may last 25 years or more.
- A new propane furnace typically lasts 15–20 years but might require earlier replacement.
3. Fuel Storage and Safety
- Heating oil tanks are common, but older tanks might corrode (leading to costly replacements).
- A new propane tank must be properly installed and inspected. Some homeowners opt for underground tanks for better aesthetics.
What’s The Right Choice For You: Heating Oil or Propane?
If you’re still on the fence, consider the following:
| Factor | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Max Heat Output | Heating Oil (burns hotter) |
| Lower Carbon Emissions | Propane (cleaner-burning fuel) |
| Long-Term Cost Savings | Heating Oil (less fuel needed) |
| Less Maintenance | Propane (less soot buildup) |
| Easier Installation | Heating Oil (if your home already has an oil tank) |
If you already use heating oil, switching to propane might not be worth the initial cost. But if you’re building a new home, propane systems could be a viable option—especially if you don’t have access to natural gas.
Domino Fuel: Premier Oil Provider in Long Island
At Domino Fuel, we know that home heating oil is still the best option for most Long Island homeowners. We offer:
- Dependable heating oil deliveries—so you never run out of fuel.
- Competitive pricing to keep your heating bills under control.
- Boiler repair and oil burner service to keep your system running efficiently.
Whether you need home heating oil, an oil tank replacement, or expert advice on heating systems, we’ve got you covered. Call Domino Fuel today to schedule your next heating oil delivery!
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