Whether you are building a new house or need to replace a boiler, you will have to install a new one sometime. When you start shopping around for a new boiler, you will have to choose between oil, gas, or an electric one. Gas and oil boilers are the more cost-effective options among the three, so you might end up choosing between the two. To help you make the better option, here is a comparison of the two.
Costs
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Cost is the first thing to consider because no matter how good the option you decide to go with is, it won’t matter if it is out of your budget. When thinking about the price, you have to think about upfront costs as well as long term costs.
A standard oil boiler usually costs around 2-3 times the price of a standard gas boiler. Remember that if you decide to get a high-efficiency gas boiler, it will cost almost the same as a standard oil boiler.
Next, you have to think about running costs. Gas remains cheaper than oil for now, and it has been this way for the past few decades. So, if you get a gas boiler, you will get significant savings on your fuel costs.
Oil boilers are much more durable than most gas boilers. An oil boiler will last around 13-25 years, while a gas boiler will last about 10-15 years. This means you will have to replace a gas boiler more frequently which increases its long-term cost. The tank is usually not a factor when considering the long-term cost of both of these types of boilers because if you get the right Worcester Bosch boiler fitter to install it for you, it should last forever unless there is an underlying issue such as a leak that goes unnoticed.
Space Considerations
An oil boiler requires a tank to store the oil. A gas boiler does not have this problem because the gas comes in using a supply line. So, if you go with an oil boiler, you might have to find space for your oil storage tank.
Energy Efficiency
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Both oil and gas are very energy-efficient fuels, but gas comes out on top slightly. Oil has the disadvantage of being a pollutant so although it remains a viable option, it should come second to gas.
Safety
Oil wins here as it is much safer than gas. A single gas leak can cause explosions and fire. A gas leak is also extremely harmful and lethal if the gas is inhaled in large enough quantities. An oil spill creates a mess, but it does do not endanger anyone’s life.
Switching from Oil to Gas
Once you have considered the pros and cons of both gas and oil boiler, you might think of switching from oil to gas. This could net you some savings down the line, but it is important to do this only if you plan on living in the house for many years. The upfront initial investment for a gas boiler system is often recouped after about 7-10 years.
Although gas and oil boilers are both excellent heating solutions, you have to consider everything you will be getting before deciding on one or the other. Also, weigh up the fuels they use to see which one is the best one for you.
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