One of the top advantages of oil is that it's an energy source that's on the cutting edge of new technologies. Some of the new developments in oil technology include two-stage furnaces, super-efficient combined condensing boiler/hot water heaters, outdoor heating/cooling systems, advanced microprocessor-based controls and further advances in biofuels and other alternatives. Here are a few important points you should know:

• Converting to gas is expensive.
  The Consumer Energy Council of America (CECA) recently stated, "It's financially unwise for consumers to convert from oil to gas heat." Gas heating conversion, which involves tank abandonment or removal, plumbing, electrical, chimney and ducting work, can run as high as $9,000³
• Oil burns more efficiently.
  On average, heating oil burns about 16% more efficiently than gas.⁴ Furthermore, it takes approximately 40% more natural gas to receive the same heating equivalent as heating oil. (Source: www.cityfuel.net)
• Oil appliances last longer.
  Efficiency ratings of new oil heat appliances range from 83% to 95% and can have an average life expectancy of 30 or more years if they are properly maintained vs. the average life expectancy of 11-14 years for a gas furnace.
• Get more hot water with oil.
  The hot water recovery rate of an oil-fueled water heater is twice as fast as a gas water heater and three times as fast as an electric water heater. Oil creates 140,000 BTUs of heat per gallon; a gallon equivalent of Natural Gas produces only 100,000 BTUs. (Source: www.cityfuel.net)
• Oil gives off near-zero emissions.
  The sulfur content of oil has been reduced by more than 93%¹ over the past 20 years. Today's oil is 95% cleaner than it was in 1970. Oil burner emissions have been reduced to near zero levels, reducing overall emissions by 95%¹
• It's safe and reliable.
  Oil doesn't explode or raise concerns about carbon monoxide poisoning. Unlike gas, which is the leading cause of carbon monoxide deaths in the U.S., it's highly improbable that anyone would be affected by carbon monoxide entering the home from oil.²
• Oil gives you options.
  Gas heat is provided by one big utility, and you have no choice in the matter. Oil gives you options. You choose where to buy it, how much to buy and it's stored on your own property, so you can choose how to use and conserve it.

^{1 Source: Oil Heat Powered By Clearburn Science. The Clear Choice! NORA (National Oil Heat Research Alliance)}

^{2 Source: Energy Answers Today Pocket Guide by Primedia www.energyanswerstoday.com}

^{3 Source: Energy Answers Today - Your Guide to Economical & Efficient Home Heating Brochure by Primedia}

^{4 US Department of Energy and the Gas Appliances Manufacturers Association}