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"TURTLE" wrote in message
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Right now, with the natural gas shortage (expected to last several
years)
it
seems oil heat is about 2/3 of the cost of natural gas. For me,
switching
from natural gas to oil would save about $500. per year.

But I'd like to have a dual heating system in case of supply problems
with
either. Is there a decent way to piggy-back an oil heating system onto
my
natural gas system? I have a hot water/radiator system. It seems with
a
few
valves installed I could use the same system with my choice of
boilers.
Any
reason why not?

Also, I was thinking of using kerosene space heaters for the living
room,
and letting the rest of the house go cold during the day. (using
fabric
to
close off the living area and heat). Anything to take into
consideration
in
doing this?

This is Turtle.

Well you say you can save $500.00 a year on oil heat and have a choice
of
natural gas or fuel oil boiler.

Lest see here to get a convertiable system like you want would run you
around $2,000.00 to $4,000.00 and taking the low figure here of saving
$500.00 a year it would take you 4 years to just get your money back.
Now
in
4 years your going to loose the interest on the investment of $2,000.00
which will be another $250.00 which makes it 4 and 1/2 years to break
even.
What is going to be the price of each of these fuel 4 and 1/2 years from
now.

This is a bad bet for now but your betting on the future which is
uncertain.

TURTLE


True. Actually I estimated the conversion would cost more toward the high
end of that. The issue is limited domestic natural gas supply unless, of
course, importation begins or there is more production on government and
protected lands. Oil is easily imported.

If the situation worsens or improves, it could shift

Like you say, it's a gamble. But part of the gamble is if gas stays high.
If
you hang on while gas prices continue escalating your $500 $800
$1,000......go for nothing and you still must toss the upfront costs to
convert.

This is Turtle.

Right now your not at any break even point to bet on. Play your cards and
see.

TURTLE