When deciding between an electric furnace and a gas furnace, there are many things you should consider. Some factors to take into account are cost, effectiveness, and durability. Additionally, in many cases, furnace selection is largely dependent on what type of fuel you have available. Natural gas is the most popular choice, but it may not be accessible in all areas of the country. While electrical furnaces have the benefit of lower installation costs, they generally cost more to operate, leaving many people searching for other options.
If you’re on the fence when it comes to choosing a furnace, read on to find out which one may be right for you.
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How Does a Furnace Work?
While a furnace generates heat, it works together with your thermostat and ductwork to warm your entire home. Regardless of whether it’s powered by electricity or natural gas, the furnace stays idle until the thermostat detects that the surrounding air is at a lower temperature than where it’s currently set. When the thermostat detects this lower temperature, it sends a signal to your furnace to fire up the burners and warm up the heat exchanger.
What’s the Difference Between Gas and Electric Furnaces?
Even though both gas and electric furnaces are effective at heating your home, they are slightly different in how they work. Natural gas furnaces are the most popular and work by igniting gas in your furnace’s combustion chamber. This is then passed over hot coils and blown into ducts that carry the warm air throughout your home. An electric furnace, on the other hand, works by a different method. Electric furnaces work much more like a hair dryer, pulling in air to the heat exchanger, where electric elements will heat the air that is then blown throughout the ducts in your home.
The Advantages of Having a Gas Furnace
Cheaper to Operate
Gas heating is generally less expensive to operate. Natural gas costs have actually been decreasing in the past few years while electricity costs have risen.
Quicker Heating
Another benefit of having a gas furnace is that it can heat your home more quickly because the system is generally hotter than an electric furnace.
Higher Efficiency Rating
Lastly, gas furnaces are more energy efficient, which is why they are cheaper to operate.
The Drawbacks of Having a Gas Furnace
They Wear Out Faster
A major disadvantage of gas furnaces is they wear out faster. They generally only last up to about 20 years–even with regular maintenance and repairs.
More Expensive
In addition, gas furnaces are more expensive to install. They are also more complicated because they need access to a vent that can lead to the outside of your home.
Increased Carbon Monoxide
Lastly, gas heating leads to increased carbon monoxide, which could be dangerous if it builds up over time.
The Benefits of Having an Electric Furnace
Cheaper Installation
Electric furnaces are generally cheaper and easier to install up-front. They also require lower maintenance costs, as they don’t require as much attention as gas furnaces.
They Last Longer
Electric furnaces tend to last longer as well–generally up to 30 years. And you also don’t have to worry about carbon monoxide with an electric furnace.
The Disadvantages of Having an Electric Furnace
They Cost More Month-to-Month
Although they have some benefits, there are some clear drawbacks to having an electric furnace. First off, they cost more month-to-month than a gas furnace, although the upfront costs may be tempting.
Slower Heating
Electric furnaces also take more time to heat and won’t be able to get as hot.
Which Furnace Is Best For Your Home?
Choosing the best furnace for your home depends on your goals. While an electric furnace may have a lower cost up-front, it is more expensive month-to-month. And while a gas furnace is able to heat your home faster and reach a higher temperature, it is a more complicated and expensive installation. Ultimately, it comes down to your preferences to choose the right furnace for you.
Trust Eanes with Furnace Installation Services
Have you decided on a furnace yet? Let the experienced professionals at Eanes take it off your hands. Eanes Comfort offers professional installations that are tailored to your unique heating needs. And even if your heating system breaks down in the middle of the night, we have you covered with 24/7 emergency repairs—without the emergency fees. Contact Eanes today for reliable heating system installations in Greensboro, High Point, and Winston-Salem, North Carolina.