Gas vs. Electric Furnace: Which is Right for a House?
While gas and electric furnaces have pros and cons, there are several factors to consider when purchasing a unit.
While gas and electric furnaces have pros and cons, there are several factors to consider when purchasing a unit. This article will provide an overview of both furnaces and discuss their advantages and disadvantages.
Differences between gas and electric furnaces
Here are some key functional differences between the two types of furnaces:
Gas furnaces produce heat by burning natural gas, while electric furnaces generate heat through electrical resistance.
Gas furnaces require a source of natural gas, while electric furnaces use electricity from the grid.
Gas furnaces are combustion mechanisms with a gas valve and an igniter for burning natural gas and distributing the heat throughout the home.
Electric furnaces use air handlers with heating coils to convert electrical energy into heat.
Pros of electric furnaces
There are many advantages of electric furnaces over gas alternatives. Electric furnaces generate less carbon dioxide emissions than gas furnaces, making them more environmentally friendly. These appliances are also safer since they don’t require highly flammable and toxic gas. In addition, the electricity that powers them can come from several different sources. Hence, they don’t depend on a finite energy source such as natural gas.
Additionally, electric furnaces are easier to install and maintain than gas furnaces.
Cons of electric furnaces
Electric furnaces have a few potential drawbacks when compared to gas furnaces. First, electric furnaces are more expensive to operate than gas furnaces. The price of electricity is generally higher than the price of natural gas.
Secondly, electric furnaces are often less efficient than gas furnaces, meaning that they use more electricity to produce the same amount of heat.
Finally, electric furnaces can take longer to heat a home than gas furnaces.
Pros of gas furnaces
There are several reasons why a gas furnace may be a preferable choice. First, gas is typically less expensive than electricity. Gas furnaces are more efficient than electric furnaces since they can transfer heat rather than consistently produce new heat. Finally, these appliances heat a home more evenly than electric furnaces, resulting in more comfortable indoor temperatures.
Cons of gas furnaces
There are a few potential drawbacks to using a gas furnace in a home. Firstly, they require access to natural gas lines, which may only be available in some areas. Unlike electricity, natural gas is a finite resource.
Gas furnaces can produce harmful emissions, such as carbon monoxide, which can pose severe safety and health risks. They also tend to be more expensive to install than electric furnaces.
Choose the suitable furnace for the home
Gas furnaces are generally more expensive to install but more efficient and can heat a home faster. Electric furnaces are safer and healthier but don’t distribute heat as quickly. But, again, it’s best to consult a professional to determine which heating system suits any home.
Forecast Heating, Cooling, and Refrigeration serves residential and commercial customers in Summerlin, Anthem, North Las Vegas, Boulder City and Las Vegas. Call us at 702-919-4546.
