Gas vs. Electric: Which Furnace Is Right for You?

A furnace is a huge part of any home or business. They help to regulate the heat and cold during all seasons so that you can stay in your home and be comfortable. When choosing a furnace, it is important to note that you do have options, and one of the biggest choices you have to make is whether you want a gas or an electric furnace.

Is Gas Furnace the Best?

There are some distinct benefits to a gas furnace that may be enough to make it the right choice for you. First, gas furnaces are very powerful. They can heat very large homes and can help you get the best heat possible. Natural gas is often less expensive than electricity as well. If you have gas lines in place, you can use them and save a ton of money on the energy needed to keep the furnace going. Another benefit is that gas furnaces can work well with air conditioners and heat pumps to help keep your temperatures even all year round.

There are some drawbacks, however. Unless you already have gas lines installed, you may have to have them installed to use a gas furnace. Having gas lines placed can be expensive. Another issue you might run into is that you do have to purchase an indoor coil in many cases. You may also need a Co2 detector to help keep you and your family safe.

Is Electric Furnace the Best?

There are benefits to using an electric furnace as well. The first is that you are not going to need gas lines put in if you do not already have them. Most homes are outfitted with an electric furnace. Another benefit is that electric furnaces are easy to use all year round, and you do not have to use natural gas to keep them running.

Though they are great, electric furnaces do have some drawbacks as well. First, they only create original heat, and they will not transfer heat, which means they will cost a bit more to run. Another issue is that they can raise your electric bills considerably and may put extra strain on your home and on your electricity. They are not necessarily as efficient as a gas furnace and therefore may have to work much harder to get to the heat or the cooling capacity you require.

No matter which option you choose, the right installation can make a big difference. Take the time to find a company you trust to have your furnace installed and have great temperature regulation all year long.

Categorised in: HVAC Service