Convert Thermopride from oil burner to gas burner? Seeking advice

[schaef]

I’m looking for advice on whether to convert my existing Thermopride oil furnace to natural gas, or keep the system as is using oil.

Background:
• Original 550-gallon underground oil tank from 1947 (insured) will be removed this spring.
• Thermopride OL-105 with Beckett burner was installed September 2003, replacing the original oil furnace from 1947. Current efficiency is 85.25%.

Since the underground tank needs to be removed, I’m considering converting the Thermopride to natural gas. I have been receiving estimates to:
1) remove the underground tank and switch out the oil burner for a natural gas burner in the Thermopride;
2) remove the underground tank and replace with an indoor Roth tank.

According to Thermopride, the gas burner (a Wayne Combustion P250 burner) will get from 78-80% efficiency in the OL-105.

What I’m seeing based on the estimates is that it will cost about the same to switch to a gas burner as it will to install a new indoor oil tank, so price is a moot point.

I’m wondering if anyone has experience with this kind of conversion in a Thermopride and what the results were? Is the burner loud? Is this a good idea? I’ve found some fuel price calculators online and current fuel costs even with the efficiency differences is around the same.

Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[lbf]

While you're getting quotes, get a quote on a new 95% or better efficiency gas furnace. Not only will the efficiency be better than the oil or gas conversion but it would qualify for up to a $1500.00 tax credit. Also check into any rebates your gas supplier may have.

[heaterman]

When natural gas was cheap, oil to nat gas was a common conversion, alot of manufacturer's even had furnace lines where they used the same furnace with either a gas or oil burner. Today, I wouldn't convert anything. Either go with the basement tank or bite the bullet and change out to a 95% and let the tax credit help offset the cost. My opinion.

[Rlattime3]

lbf gave you exactly what you should do. Thats what I would do if it were my home.

[pecmsg]

If his #’s are correct going to gas at 95% may be a long pay back.

[schaef]

I appreciate the responses. I didn't know about the tax credit and that may make the numbers work. Thanks again.