As the winter months are upon us, you’re probably thinking a lot about how you’re going to stay warm at home during this chilly winter season.
At some point or another, you’re going to need to replace your heating system, and you might be thinking about whether to invest in an electric furnace or a gas furnace. Both have their strengths and weaknesses, so you’ll want to think about the best fit for you and your needs.
The initial purchase price of an electric furnace is generally less than that of a gas furnace. However, the cost of operating an electric furnace is generally more than that of operating a gas furnace. This is because natural gas is a cheaper form of energy than electricity. Over the years, the price of gas has actually decreased. Another pro of gas furnaces is that they heat homes faster than electrical furnaces. They also tend to be more effective in very cold temperatures because in extreme temperatures, they achieve a higher temperature than electric furnaces do.
Electric furnaces are quiet and usually more durable than gas furnaces, often lasting between 20 to 30 years. They are also generally faster to install than gas furnaces, causing minimal household disruption. Maintenance of an electric furnace is easy, and usually troubleshooting any issues is pretty straightforward. Electric furnaces also pose less of a threat to the people living in the household than do gas furnaces. Gas furnaces emit a low level of carbon monoxide, so the homeowners are responsible for making sure that gas furnaces are operating properly at all times in order to avoid serious health risks.
If you live in Colorado and are trying to figure out the best heating option for your home, or if you have questions about your current heating system, contact Tri-City HVAC today.
Source:
Wilson Bryant Air Conditioning. (2013). Pros and Cons of an Electric Furnace vs. Gas.
