Life is full of decisions, big and small, but some can really make a difference in your day-to-day comfort. For instance, if the time has come to upgrade your heating system, choosing between an electric furnace vs. gas furnace is one of those important decisions. After all, you want a reliable system that keeps your family warm through the chillier months. But which one is right for you?
In this blog, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of the electric furnace vs. gas furnace debate. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of which heating system will fit your family’s needs.
The Basics of Gas and Electric Furnaces
Before we get into comparisons, let’s break down what electric and gas furnaces do. Both types of furnaces serve the same purpose: they warm your home by heating air and distributing it through the ductwork. But the way they generate heat is different.
Gas Furnaces
As the name suggests, a natural gas furnace burns natural gas to create heat. When the thermostat detects a drop in temperature, the gas is ignited in the furnace’s burner. This process heats up the heat exchanger, and the warm air is then circulated throughout your home.
Gas furnaces are known for providing powerful, consistent heat, even in colder climates. They typically have a lower operating cost than electric furnaces, especially in areas where natural gas is cheap and readily available. However, they do require access to a natural gas line, and they need regular maintenance to guarantee safe operation and prevent issues like carbon monoxide leaks.
Electric Furnaces
An electric furnace, on the other hand, generates heat using electrical resistance. When the thermostat calls for heat, electric heating elements inside the furnace are activated, warming the air. This heated air is then circulated through your home.
Electric furnaces are often seen as safer because they don’t produce carbon monoxide or rely on flammable gas. They’re also easier to install in homes without existing gas lines. However, they can be more expensive to operate due to the higher cost of electricity compared to natural gas.
Electric Furnace vs. Gas Furnace Efficiency: Which Is Better?
When considering electric furnace vs. gas furnace efficiency, there are a few factors to weigh. Both systems can be efficient, but how they perform depends on your specific situation, including climate, energy prices, and your home’s insulation. So, should you invest in an electric or gas furnace?
Efficiency of Gas Furnaces
Gas furnaces tend to have higher heating efficiency, especially in colder climates. High-efficiency models, often called condensing furnaces, can have an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating of 90% or more, meaning they convert about 90% of the energy in natural gas into heat for your home. The remaining 10% is lost through the exhaust. The higher the AFUE, the more heat you get for your money.
Efficiency of Electric Furnaces
Electric furnaces are technically 100% efficient because they convert all the electricity they use into heat. However, electricity is usually more expensive than natural gas, so even with perfect efficiency, the cost to operate an electric furnace can be higher.
When comparing electric furnace vs. gas furnace efficiency, it’s also important to consider your local energy prices. In regions where electricity is cheaper than natural gas, or if you have access to renewable electricity (like solar power), an electric furnace might be more cost-effective in the long run.
If you’re still unsure whether or not you should convert from a gas to an electric furnace, consider reaching out to an expert for help. The technicians at Comfort Now can answer any questions you have and guide you through your options.
Is It Cheaper to Heat With Gas or Electric?
Now, let’s tackle the question: is it cheaper to heat with gas or electric? Generally speaking, heating with natural gas is cheaper than electricity. Natural gas prices have historically been lower than electricity rates in most parts of the country, making gas furnaces less expensive to operate.
However, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. As we already mentioned, electricity costs are lower in some areas. The initial cost of installing a gas furnace can also be higher, especially if you need to run new gas lines or upgrade your home’s venting systems.
Electric furnaces may have lower maintenance costs since they don’t have components like burners, pilot lights, or gas lines that need regular checks. But when comparing the overall cost, including installation, maintenance, and energy usage, gas furnaces often come out ahead, especially in colder climates where you need more heat to stay comfortable.
Should I Convert From a Gas to an Electric Furnace?
So, should you convert from a gas to an electric furnace? Ultimately, the answer to this question comes down to your household’s needs. Deciding between an electric furnace vs. gas furnace involves weighing the pros and cons of each option against your specific circumstances.
Electric furnace vs. gas furnace efficiency is necessary to consider, but you also need to think about various other factors, like the cost of operation and the amount of maintenance that’s required.
Install a New Furnace in Visalia, CA, Today!
By understanding the electric furnace vs. gas furnace debate, you can make an informed decision that best suits your home, lifestyle, and budget. Choosing the right furnace for your home is a big decision. Whether you’re leaning toward electric heat or are considering gas heat, Comfort Now is here to help.
Our team of professionals can guide you through the process, from selecting the right furnace to expert installation and ongoing maintenance. Are you still weighing the pros and cons of an electric furnace vs. gas furnace? We’re just a call away, and we’re happy to help you find the perfect solution for your home.
At Comfort Now, we’re proud to offer an extensive range of services to keep your home comfortable, from furnace installation to air filter services. Are you ready to schedule a service? Contact us today! When you need to replace your heating system or want to improve your indoor air quality in Visalia, CA, or one of the surrounding areas, we can assist you.