Natural gas vs other fuels

Electric heating, such as baseboards or electric furnaces, is one of the most expensive ways to heat a home in Ontario. Electricity costs more per unit of heat, and electric systems use power every time heat is needed.

Natural gas offers:

• Lower cost per unit of heat
• Faster heat recovery
• Reliable heat in cold weather
• Less strain during peak winter use

Good fit for: Homes with older electric systems or high winter electricity bills.

Oil heating systems often produce higher emissions and require more upkeep.

Oil systems need:

• Storage tanks
• Regular fuel deliveries
• Ongoing maintenance

Natural gas:

• Does not require fuel storage
• Uses high‑efficiency furnaces
• Usually costs less each heating season

After switching from oil, many people notice lower fuel costs, quieter operation, and more consistent heat throughout their home.

Wood heating can work for some homes, but costs and effort can vary widely.

Wood heat depends on:

• Wood supply
• Storage space
• Time and physical effort
• Stove or furnace efficiency

Natural gas:

• Automatic and easy to use
• Consistent and predictable
• Cleaner than older wood‑burning systems

Good fit for: Homeowners who want hands‑free heating with steady performance.

Propane and natural gas are similar fuels, but they differ in how they are delivered and priced.

Propane:

• Delivered by truck
• Stored in tanks on your property
• Prices change with the season
• Often costs more per unit of heat

Natural gas:

• Delivered underground
• Has more stable pricing
• Usually leads to lower yearly heating costs

Energy costs can vary based on usage, equipment, and location. The chart below shows typical heating cost comparisons between natural gas and other common fuel options to help illustrate how they generally compare.