The American Gas Association said that a survey shows that 70% of the single family homes built in the United States in 2001 were heated using natural gas. Electricity was used to heat 27% of the new homes that year, and heating oil was used for 3% of the new homes, AGA’s 2001 Residential Natural Gas Market Survey found.

More than 60 million American homes — 61% of all U.S. households — now have gas service, and 83% of these customers use gas for heating purposes. AGA found that natural gas is a favorite (52%) for home heating, followed by electricity (31%), fuel oil (9%) and propane (6%).

“Natural gas is a clear consumer favorite for home heating because it is comfortable, reliable and easy to use,” said AGA’s Bruce McDowell, director of policy analysis. “While most people associated natural gas with home heating, an increasing number of consumers in both cold weather and warm weather states seek gas service to support fireplaces, outdoor grills and other amenities that enhance enjoyment of their homes.”

However, in the new multi-family home market, natural gas gained only slightly in 2001, to a 47% market share from a 45% share. Electricity still holds the largest market share in multifamily homes, but its market share fell by one percentage point in 2001 to 53%.

For a copy of the survey call (866) 986-1131. AGA members pay $25 and all others pay $75.

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