Heating oil has been the heating choice for homes in the northeast and Mid-Atlantic region for decades. Modern heating oil provides you with the benefits of an efficient and clean-burning heat source, while also providing you with the peace of mind that you aren't contributing to the buildup of carbon in the atmosphere.

While it may seem unconventional, heating oil provides many benefits that can make a world of difference in your home's efficiency and your monthly budget.

Efficiency

Heating with oil is more efficient than other forms of home heating. While other forms of home heating, such as natural gas and electricity can be costly, they don't compare to oil in the amount of energy put out per gallon. When oil burns, it converts 90 percent of its energy into heat, whereas natural gas and electricity convert only 45 to 65 percent of their energy into heat. In fact, if your home is heated solely by electricity, you could end up using as much energy as you would by driving 400 miles a week. This may be one reason almost six million households use heating oil to warm their homes.

Cost

Homes that use heating oil are significantly less likely to experience heating issues during the winter, making their homes the envy of their neighbors. But why would so many people choose this option when there are other viable natural options available?

The answer is cost. While heating oil may cost more in the beginning to install, it is much more cost-effective in the long run. The average price of heating oil was $1.88 per gallon in 2012, down from $2.98 in 2006. That is an almost 40 percent decrease in price over a five-year period. This is a trend you can expect to see in the future, too.

Other Benefits

This is a good option for homeowners with income restrictions who cannot afford the installation and maintenance fees of electric or natural gas heating systems. It is also a great option for those living in more easily combustible areas of the United States, as heating oil is a reliable source of heat. Heating oil is a great heating choice for those worried about the environment as well.

One of the most important factors to consider when weighing your heating options is the impact your heating method has on the environment. Natural gas is effective because it produces fewer carbon emissions than other heating methods available, but oil heat is the most eco-friendly heating method of all. Not only does it burn cleanly, but it is renewable and sustainable, two factors that are extremely important for the future of the environment. So if you're searching for a new heating system for your home, consider your options. While natural gas and electrical heating are both effective methods, heating oil offers you a little something extra.