How do you know which heating option you should select for your home? Like a lot of things, the answer depends. If reducing fossil fuel consuption is a goal of yours, go electric. If you want to heat your home for as cheap as possible, go gas. But, there is always more to consider.
The main difference between gas and electric furnaces is how they create heat. Electric uses electricity while gas uses natural gas. They are made and function different.
A gas furnace creates heat by pulling natural gas from the main home gas valve which flows into the combustion chamber. It is then ignited by the piolot light and burners. Heat then gets pulled by the heat exchanger then pumped into your home.
Electric furnaces make heat by pulling air into the heat exchanger. Heating coils are then activated which warms the air. A blower then pushes warm air into your home.
Electric furnaces are typically cheaper to install but cost more to operate. Gas furnaces typically cost more to install but less to operate.
Both options are safe if your furnace is running properly and regularly maintained.
Electric furnaces are more efficient because 100% of the energy it uses goes directly into heating your home. Gas furnaces are less efficient because the burning of natural gas creates a byproduct.
Electric furnaces tend to be more durable and require fewer repairs than gas furnaces because they have less moving parts that can break. Electric furnaces have an expected lifespan of 20-30 years while gas furnaces tend to last for 15-20 years.
The climate that you live in and your home heating needs will determine what type of furnace is best for you.
If you live in a hot climate and only need to use your furnace a few days out of the year, then you may want an electric furnace. It should have no trouble keeping your house warm during mild winters, and you may not use it enough to offset the initial savings during the installation. Live in a cold climate, you might consider going with the gas option.
At 4 Seasons Heating, Cooling & Electrical we are heating experts. We can recommend the perfect heating system for your home, lifestle and budget. We offer free, in-home, no-obligation quotes and are accessible around the clock for emergency service bookings.
We're here when you need us!
