As a homeowner in the Northeast, I know how important it is to have efficient home heating when the temperatures drop in the winter, and so do my customers. Gas heating is an ideal solution – it is cost-effective and eco-friendly. However, some homeowners may not realize this may be an option in their municipality. Take it from the Coop – knowing your options can broaden your home heating options and help you save on utility expenses. Let’s discuss natural gas heating and the benefits of converting with Cooper Mechanical.
Heating Your Home with Gas Appliances
Did you know not everyone can have gas-powered equipment? Many homeowners don’t have access to natural gas services in their community. What’s more, many people who haven’t had that option for their home heating system from the start often find out down the line their municipality has brought in gas or will be doing so soon. In these cases, many homeowners choose to convert from oil, propane, or electric to natural gas so they can enjoy the benefits these appliances bring, including:
- Heating efficiency: Natural gas appliances typically produce more heat than alternatives, keeping your home toasty and warm during the colder months.
- Environmentally friendly: One of the cleanest fossil fuels, natural gas is also an eco-conscious choice. It releases less CO2 than oil.
- Reliability: Unlike electric appliances, gas models can be used during a power outage if they don’t require any electricity. Natural gas is supplied through an underground line that is less likely to be compromised by outages or adverse weather conditions. This line provides a reliable, consistent fuel source directly to your home.
- Cost efficiency: While energy prices rise and fall over the years, natural gas prices are typically not affected significantly.
How Can I Find Out If My Community Offers Natural Gas?
If a municipality is going to start offering natural gas, homeowners are often informed fairly quickly. Oftentimes, a representative from the gas company will contact you and offer an assessment. Other ways you can find out include:
- Consulting your local utility provider
- Asking your neighbors to see if they have access to natural gas
- Checking with your realtor when you’re planning to buy a home
So many of the customers I talk to are thrilled when they find out they have access to natural gas through their municipality. If you’re lucky enough to live in an area where you either already have gas or your municipality is bringing it in, you can convert your home to a gas heating system.
Converting to Natural Gas Heat
In my experience, the cost to convert varies depending on your unique circumstances. However, the long-term savings make this option well worth it for many homeowners in the end. Here are some things to consider before making the switch:
- Current appliances: Many appliances can run on either natural gas or propane, so you may not need to buy new ones.
- Landscaping: When gas becomes available, the line has to reach from the main source to your home. This trench will likely impact your yard. Professionals will make every effort to minimize the damage, but you may have to replace the grass and any other affected landscaping after installation.
- Fuel tank removal: Converting to natural gas means you won’t need that old fuel tank on your property anymore. If you own the tank, you can sell it or pay to have the area excavated and the tank removed. If you lease it from your gas company, there may be a fee associated with removal.
Get Started Today with Cooper Mechanical
If you’re thinking of converting, Cooper Mechanical can guide you through the process from start to finish. Serving customers in Doylestown, upper to mid-Bucks County, Ottsville, and the surrounding areas, our team can install your gas line and advise you on the best compatible equipment to get you up and running in no time. Contact us for more information today.