If you’re a business owner, no doubt you keep a close watch on your expenses. As energy costs creep higher, you may be wondering whether it’s worthwhile to convert your energy source to natural gas. We asked our Senior Business Development Rep Dave MacLean about some of the more common questions and concerns he fields from customers thinking about making the switch.
Why should I consider switching my business to gas?
Fuel prices vary over time, and every business is different, but historically, gas is less expensive than using electricity, heating oil, or propane as a primary fuel source. Switching to gas benefits the environment as well, with a reduction in carbon emissions between 15% and 30% compared to propane and oil respectively.
When is the best time to switch to natural gas?
Summer is a great time to make a change, because you’re not relying on your heating system to keep your employees and customers comfortable. Spring and fall are good options as well, but bear in mind that some municipalities suspend excavation once the ground freezes – typically around the middle of November.
What types of businesses benefit the most from switching to gas?
The more fuel a commercial customer uses, the higher the cost savings and the greater the reduction in carbon emissions when switching to natural gas. Restaurants, large warehouses, and industrial customers are likely to see the greatest benefits of making the switch.
Making the switch from heating oil to natural gas can cut your business’ carbon emissions by as much as 30%.
How long does the process take from start to finish? Will my business need to close during the conversion to gas?
From the initial inquiry to the final installation typically takes six to eight weeks. In most cases, Unitil’s installation of the gas line results in little to no disruption in your business. Your chosen contractor will install your equipment or conversion kit and connect the pipe from your unit to our meter. This process can typically be completed within one day, depending on the size of the project.
What are the steps to switching to natural gas?
Simply contact Unitil by phone at 888-4-UNITIL or fill out this form to get started. We’ll reach out to discuss your needs and design a service to the building, then present you with a contract and let you know whether the installation will require a financial contribution from you. Once we receive the signed contract, we’ll make the necessary arrangements to bring gas service to your business.
Key Takeaways
- A member of the Unitil business development team can provide an estimate of cost savings before you sign a contract for our gas service.
- Unitil works closely with each commercial customer and their contractors to make sure the conversion process goes smoothly from start to finish.
- Systems that use natural gas are more reliable and require less maintenance than oil, with no need to monitor fuel tanks and schedule deliveries.
