Converting from Oil to Propane in Upstate NY: Burner Conversion vs. Full System Upgrade

If you heat with oil and you've been wondering whether propane makes more sense for your home, you have more options than you might think. Some homes can make the switch with a simple burner conversion. Others are better served by a full upgrade to new, high-efficiency propane equipment.

The right answer depends on your current system, your home, and your long-term plans. Here's how oil-to-propane conversions work, what affects the cost, and why Upstate New York homeowners can make the whole switch without ever changing companies.

Two Ways to Convert from Oil to Propane

Option 1: Burner Conversion

If your existing furnace or boiler is in good shape and compatible, a technician may be able to replace the oil burner with a propane conversion burner. The rest of your heating system stays in place.

Good fit if: your furnace or boiler is relatively young, well maintained, and approved for conversion.

Keep in mind: you keep the efficiency of your existing equipment. An older system won't become a high-efficiency system just because the fuel changed.

Option 2: Full System Upgrade

This means replacing your oil furnace or boiler with new propane equipment designed for the fuel. Modern high-efficiency propane furnaces and boilers can use far more of their fuel as heat than older oil equipment.

Good fit if: your current system is 15 years or older, needs frequent repairs, or your heating bills keep climbing.

Keep in mind: the upfront cost is higher, but you get new equipment, better efficiency, and a longer runway before your next replacement.

Not sure which path fits? That's exactly what an in-home assessment is for. A technician will look at your system's age, condition, and compatibility and give you an honest recommendation.

Switch Fuels Without Switching Companies

Here's something most homeowners don't realize: switching from oil to propane doesn't have to mean starting over with a new company. Long Energy delivers both heating oil and propane, and our own HVAC team handles the installation. That means one company manages your switch from start to finish.

• No gaps in your heat. We keep your oil deliveries coming until your new propane system is up and running.

• One point of contact. The same team that assesses your system installs it, sets up your propane delivery, and services it afterward.

• No finger-pointing. When your fuel supplier and your HVAC installer are the same company, there's no back-and-forth between two businesses if something needs attention.

• A relationship you already trust. If you're a current Long Energy oil customer, you keep the people, service, and accounts you know.

As a third-generation, family-owned company serving 11 counties in Upstate New York, we've built our reputation on making things simple for our customers. It's why our tagline is Where Service Counts.

 Oil to propane: burner conversion or full system upgrade? See which option may be right for your Upstate NY home.

What an Oil-to-Propane Conversion Involves

1. In-home assessment. We look at your current furnace or boiler, venting, and your home's heating needs to decide between a burner conversion and a full upgrade.

2. Propane tank placement. Propane is stored in a tank, typically outdoors or underground. We'll help you choose the right size and location for your home and how much propane you plan to use.

3. Installation. Our HVAC team installs the conversion burner or new equipment, runs the gas line, and connects everything to your propane tank.

4. Oil tank removal or decommissioning. Your oil tank can't be reused for propane. Once your new system is running, the old tank is pumped out and removed or properly decommissioned.

5. Delivery setup. We set up your propane delivery, including automatic delivery and tank monitoring options, so you never have to think about running low.

What Affects the Cost of Converting to Propane?

Every home is different, so the cost depends on a few key factors:

• Burner conversion vs. a full system replacement

• The type and size of equipment your home needs

• Propane tank size, placement, and whether it's above ground or underground

• Removing or decommissioning your old oil tank

• Venting or chimney changes required for the new equipment

• Any additional propane appliances you add at the same time

Rebates and Financing

Rebates and incentives are often available for high-efficiency equipment, and financing can help spread out the upfront cost. Visit our Financing & Rebates page or ask our team what you may qualify for.

Propane Does More Than Heat Your Home

One of the biggest advantages of switching to propane is that one fuel can power much more of your home. Once your propane tank is in place, adding other appliances is simple:

• Tankless water heaters for endless hot water (learn more)

• Gas ranges for precise, restaurant-style cooking

• Standby generators that keep your lights on during storm outages (learn more)

• Fireplaces, pool heaters, and clothes dryers

Propane also burns cleanly and is stored safely outside your home, so there's no oil smell and no risk of an indoor oil tank leak.

Oil to Propane Conversion FAQs

Can I convert my existing oil furnace or boiler to propane?

Sometimes. Some furnaces and boilers can accept a propane conversion burner, while others need to be replaced. Age, condition, and manufacturer approval all play a role. A Long Energy technician can tell you which applies to your system.

Can I use my oil tank for propane?

No. Oil tanks aren't built to hold propane, which is stored under pressure. You'll need a propane tank, and your old oil tank will be removed or decommissioned.

Is propane cheaper than heating oil?

It depends on fuel prices and your equipment. A gallon of propane holds less energy than a gallon of oil, so the price per gallon alone doesn't tell the whole story. A high-efficiency propane system can make better use of every gallon. We're happy to walk you through a realistic comparison for your home.

How long does the conversion take?

A burner conversion can often be completed in a day. A full system upgrade typically takes one to two days, plus time for propane tank installation.

Will I be without heat during the switch?

We schedule the work to keep downtime to a minimum, and because we deliver both fuels, your oil deliveries continue until your propane system is ready.

I'm already a Long Energy oil customer. What changes?

Very little. You keep the same company, the same team, and the same service. Only your fuel changes.

Find the Right Fit for Your Home

Whether a simple burner conversion or a full system upgrade is the right move, Long Energy can handle every step: the assessment, the installation, and the propane deliveries that follow. Call us at (518) 465-6647 or contact us to start the conversation.