How to Convert Home Heating Systems

Getting the most efficiency from a heating system may mean replacing an existing unit

Converting your home heating system has the potential to increase heating efficiency and reduce fuel bills. Three common conversion choices are gas, oil and geothermal. Heating system preference is largely a personal choice, according to the U.S. Department of Energy's website, with each system having strengths and weaknesses. Other factors that may affect the conversion decision are the geographic region, the availability of heating fuels, such as natural gas, and the costs associated with the conversion.

Instructions

1. Convert to natural gas. A primary factor with natural gas is its availability. Not all cities and towns have natural gas utilities that service the area. If gas is available in your area, start the process by contacting the local gas utility. They can advise on specific steps including any permits required. You will also need a licensed HVAC contractor to install the system in your house. The HVAC contractor will design the system, install the components and submit the paperwork to the gas utility. At that point, the gas utility will make the underground connections and then install a meter to complete the process.

2. Install oil heating. If you are without access to a natural gas provider, choose oil heating instead. The process is simpler than a natural gas conversion and can often be coordinated through a local oil supplier. The oil supplier will install an oil tank, filler pipe and furnace. If the supplier does not provide these services directly, they can usually arrange for the services. Depending on the setup of the house, you may need additional plumbing work if the oil system uses hot water for heat delivery.

3. Change to geothermal heating. In recent years, geothermal heating has gained in popularity due to increased gas and oil prices. One specific advantage of geothermal units is the ability to provide cooling in addition to heating. The systems can be expensive to install initially, but the cost is recouped within five to ten years through energy savings. Installation is done by specialized contractors. The two-part process involves the installation of an underground pipe loop that captures the geothermal heat. The second part of the process is the installation of the pump unit that delivers the heat to your house.

References

• US Dept of Energy: Selecting Heating Fuel and System Types
• Washington Gas: Convert to Natural Gas
• Gault: Converting to an Oil Heating System
• US Dept of Energy: Geothermal Heat Pumps