Propane vs. Heat Pump

Admin • October 9, 2026

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Propane doesn't get the same bad press oil does, but the math tells a similar story. Propane systems are typically more efficient than older oil boilers — usually 79–85% AFUE for standard equipment — but you're still buying a fuel that has to be delivered, stored in a tank on your property, and re-bought every time the market moves.

The Side-by-Side

Oil (80% AFUE system) Ductless Heat Pump
Typical system efficiency 79–85% AFUE (standard) 200–400%+ (COP 2–4)
Estimated cost per day* ~$18.48 ~$9.21
Tank required? Yes — owned or leased No tank, no deliveries
Price volatility Moderate — tracks crude oil & natural gas markets Tied to your electric rate
Heats AND cools? No — separate AC needed Yes, one system does both

Based on a typical Hudson Valley home; see Section 7 for full methodology, assumptions, and sources.

The Part Nobody Mentions About Propane Tanks

Whether you own or lease your propane tank, it's one more thing on your property to maintain, insure, and plan deliveries around — and propane pricing has its own seasonal swings tied to both crude oil and natural gas markets. A heat pump skips all of it: no tank, no delivery schedule, no second fuel bill.

Want to see what a heat pump would cost to run at your house instead of your propane tank? Request a free estimate or call (845) 327-0017.

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