Gas vs Oil

psd_3

You should really be doing this based on output BTUs required to cover heat loss. The input needs for oil vs propane would be different based on the relative efficiencies of the equipment used to produce heat.

#2 heating oil = 140,000 BTU/gal

Propane = 92,000 BTU/gal

As an example, assume that you need 80,000 BTUs/hr to cover your heat loss ...

At 80% efficient, this requires 100,000 BTUs/hr of input

At 93% efficient, this requires 86,000 BTUs/hr of input

100,000 BTUs from oil @$2.39/gal would cost $1.70

86,000 BTUs from propane @2.10/gal would cost $1.96

Then you need to figure in the amortization of the equipment costs over the life of the equipment (probably negligible between the two) and the yearly maintenance costs.

Why forced hot air and not hydronic? You could be pushing efficencies higher for both (~87% for oil and high 90's for propane/gas), in combination with other techniques to reduce standby losses.

Chris Hodkinson_2

Gas vs Oil

I am trying to find a program online that compares the values of fuel oil vs propane vs natural gas. I need a cost effectiveness program that takes into account efficiencies as well as dollar amount vs BTU. Something that will compare say a 80% 100,000 BTU input Fuel Oil Furnace with a Fuel Oil price of $2.39/ gal to a 93% 100,000 BTU input Propane Furance with Propane at $2.10 per gallon.


Thanks in advance.

Chris

Bob Forand

Try

energyexperts.org
This site has what you are looking for.