Expert: Charles E. Felker - 10/24/2005

Question
With the recent rise in gas prices, some people have suggested I switch from Oil to Gas heating because Oil is bound to be more expensive.  Is this true?  would it be wise to switch from Oil heating to Gas now?  I live in the NJ area.

Answer
All you need to do is compare your oil price with your gas supplier price ON A BTU BASIS.  With both fuels priced on a BTU basis you can easily see what the best deal is.  Also look at the efficiency of your heating system to factor that in if you really want to get a precise answer.  Your oil supplier will probably roll his eyes back when you ask for oil based on $/BTU and will try to give you the run around.  If he does just get back to me with the price per gal he quotes you and we'll do it without him.  The gas company should already be on a BTU basis so they won't give you any problem.  They might say $/MMBTU which means dollars per million BTUS.  All energy suppliers do not want their customers to become smart so they all try to confuse you.  It's VERY SIMPLE SO DON'T LET THEM GIVE YOU A HARD TIME.