Annual Heating Cost Comparison Calculator

You may want to calculate the cost of using wood fuel compared with conventional fuels such as natural gas, propane or electricity. This calculator can provide reasonably accurate comparative costs. Many factors contribute to annual heating costs, and each residence will be different.


Type of House:
Wood Type:
Cord Price:



Estimate of Annual Heating Costs: *

Electricity:$ 0.00
Propane:$ 0.00
Natural Gas:$ 0.00
Wood Stove:$ 0.00


Solar Water Heating: A Comprehensive Guide to Solar Water and Space Heating Systems (Mother Earth News Wiser Living Series)

"New" means houses built after 1990, and "old" means houses built before 1990. Due to construction practices, weatherizing and re-insulating (which can be different from house to house), these figures are meant to be used only as general guidelines; they should not substitute for an accurate heating requirement determination.

Old detached – approximately 2000 sq. ft.
New detached – approximately 2000 sq. ft.
New semi-detached – approximately 1500 sq. ft.
New townhouse – inside unit, approximately 1000 sq. ft.

* Based on current residential energy fuel prices
* Based on U.S. Department of Energy Statistics
* Based on calculations by Natural Resources Canada