Deciding Between a Propane and a Natural Gas Furnace

Cold winter weather will soon arrive in Peachtree Corners, GA, which means that it’s time to think about replacing your old furnace. You might be wondering whether there’s a difference in propane versus natural gas furnaces and whether one is better for your home than the other. Read on to learn about which factors to consider when deciding between a propane furnace and a natural gas furnace for your home.

Compare British Thermal Units of Heating Capacity

Propane is separated from natural gas at a refinery. It has 2,516 British Thermal Units (BTUs) per cubic foot. Natural gas is a combination of propane, butane, ethane, and methane. It delivers 1,030 BTUs per cubic foot. If your home needs a lot of heating capacity, you’ll use a lot more natural gas than propane to get the same amount of heating power.

Consider the Cost Per BTU

Propane and natural gas are sold by the cubic foot. In most locations, the price per cubic foot of natural gas is less than that of propane. If natural gas prices are less than $20 per 1,000 cubic feet, a natural gas furnace will cost less to operate than a propane furnace, even though the propane furnace is more energy-efficient. The prices of natural gas and propane are volatile by year and between providers.

Think About Convenience and Availability

Propane tanks are large, but they can be put anywhere outside of your home. Natural gas pipes must be plumbed into your home through a municipal connection. If your propane tank runs out, your furnace won’t work. The supply of natural gas won’t run out, explains the Department of Energy. You can also use natural gas to power other common household appliances, including tank and tankless water heaters, clothes dryers, and ovens.

For more information to help you decide between a propane furnace and a natural gas furnace, take a look at Ful-Bro Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc.’s heating systems, or give us a call today.