Gas Furnaces vs. Electric Furnaces — Which Type is Right for You?

The differences between a gas furnace and an electric furnace might surprise you. We explore these two heating modes and what sets them apart in the following! 

We at Five Star Home Services understand that deciding on a type of furnace can seem almost impossible. There are so many different options, not to mention features. However, one of the first questions we get is: Which type of furnace should I get? Gas or electric? In the following article, we will review the differences between the two furnace types, discuss who should consider which, and take a quick look at their costs. We hope you better understand which type of furnace is right for you by the end of this article. 

Gas Furnaces vs. Electric Furnaces: Operational Differences

Gas furnaces and electric furnaces differ fundamentally in the way they generate heat. A gas furnace uses natural gas as fuel, which is burnt to produce heat. This heat is then distributed throughout the house via a system of ducts. On the other hand, an electric furnace operates by passing electricity through a heating element. The element heats up as current flows, and this heat is subsequently distributed throughout the home. This operational difference often results in distinct practical implications regarding efficiency, cost, and environmental impact. 

Gas Furnaces

Gas furnaces are the most commonly used heating system in homes. They are powered by natural gas or propane and offer efficient, reliable, and consistent heating throughout a house. Compared to other types of heating systems, gas furnaces generally have lower upfront costs, making them an attractive option for homeowners. 

One of the main advantages of gas furnaces is their efficiency. Since natural gas burns cleaner than other fossil fuels, a gas furnace can heat your home using less energy, lowering utility bills and reducing environmental impact. Gas furnaces also have a longer lifespan than electric furnaces, with an average of 15-20 years. 

However, there are some drawbacks to using a gas furnace. One of the main concerns is safety, as natural gas is highly flammable and can pose a risk if not properly maintained. Regular maintenance and inspections are essential to ensure your gas furnace is functioning safely and efficiently. 

Another downside of gas furnaces is their reliance on a constant supply of natural gas, which can be affected by price fluctuations and availability. This can result in higher heating costs during colder months when demand for natural gas is high. Additionally, installing a gas furnace requires proper venting to remove harmful gases from your home, which can add to the overall cost. 

Electric Furnaces

On the other hand, electric furnaces do not rely on any type of fuel source and are powered solely by electricity. This makes them an attractive option for homeowners who do not have access to natural gas or prefer a cleaner and more straightforward heating system. 

Electric furnaces are generally quieter, require less maintenance, and have fewer safety concerns than gas furnaces. They also have a smaller footprint, making them an excellent option for homes with limited space. Additionally, electric furnaces can be installed in areas where traditional ductwork is impossible, such as apartments or older homes. 

However, electric furnaces are generally more expensive to operate than gas furnaces. Since electricity is often more expensive than natural gas, heating costs can be significantly higher during colder months. This can make electric furnaces less cost-effective in the long run. 

Another drawback of electric furnaces is their impact on the environment. While they do not emit harmful gases, electricity production often relies on fossil fuels, making them indirectly contribute to carbon emissions. 

In summary, both gas and electric furnaces have their advantages and disadvantages. Gas furnaces offer efficient heating at a lower upfront cost but require maintenance and can be impacted by fluctuating natural gas prices. Electric furnaces are cleaner and have fewer safety concerns but can be more expensive to operate and have a larger environmental impact. It is important to consider your specific needs and priorities when choosing between these two furnaces for your home. So, it’s essential to evaluate the upfront cost, long-term operating costs, efficiency, and environmental impact before deciding. Consider consulting with a professional HVAC technician for expert advice on which type of furnace is best for your home. Regular maintenance and proper use can ensure that whichever type you choose, your furnace will provide reliable and efficient heating throughout the colder months. With the proper care, gas and electric furnaces can be valuable in keeping your home warm and comfortable.  

Gas vs. Electric Furnaces: Application Differences

While both serve the same fundamental purpose of heating, gas and electric furnaces bear several key differences regarding their application that can potentially influence a homeowner’s choice. Due to their utilization of natural gas, gas furnaces are typically more efficient and provide warmer heat, making them particularly suitable for colder climates. However, they involve more complex installation and require regular maintenance for safe operation. On the other hand, electric furnaces are more straightforward to install, operate quietly, and pose fewer safety risks, although they may lead to higher energy bills. Therefore, their application could be better suited to milder climates and homes with limited access to a gas line. 

Gas vs. Electric Furnaces: Cost Differences

When comparing gas and electric furnaces, it’s important to consider the cost differences. Generally, gas furnaces have a higher upfront cost than electric furnaces, due mainly to the complexity of their installation. However, they tend to be more efficient and have lower operational costs over time, as natural gas is usually cheaper than electricity. On the other hand, electric furnaces are cheaper to install initially, but have higher operational costs due to the cost of electricity. Therefore, when accounting for both initial and ongoing costs, your location and local utility rates can significantly influence which option is more cost-effective in the long run. 

When determining whether to choose a gas or electric furnace, it is also important to consider the environmental impact. Gas furnaces emit carbon monoxide and other pollutants, contributing to air pollution. Electric furnaces do not produce any emissions, making them more environmentally friendly.  

In terms of maintenance and repairs, gas furnaces tend to have fewer issues as they have fewer moving parts and do not rely on electrical components. However, when repairs are needed, they can be more expensive due to the complexity of the system. Electric furnaces may have more frequent repairs, but they tend to be less costly overall. 

Another factor to consider is the availability of fuel sources in your area. Natural gas may not be readily available in all locations, making electric furnaces the only option. This can also affect the cost comparison, as electricity rates vary depending on location. 

Additionally, it is essential to consider the lifespan of each type of furnace. Gas furnaces have a longer lifespan, lasting up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance. Electric furnaces typically have a shorter lifespan of around 10-15 years. 

Gas vs. Electric Furnaces: Which is better?

When comparing gas and electric furnaces, each has its advantages and can be considered “better” depending on the specific requirements and context. Gas furnaces are generally more efficient and economical to operate, especially in colder climates, because natural gas is cheaper than electricity. They also heat the home faster because the heat produced is hotter than the heat produced by an electric furnace. On the other hand, electric furnaces have lower initial costs, are safer as they don’t produce carbon monoxide, and have a longer lifespan. They are also quieter and require less maintenance than gas furnaces. The two choices will depend on local fuel prices, climate, and the homeowner’s comfort preferences.  

Gas furnaces are typically more prevalent in areas where natural gas is readily available and affordable. They are also a better choice for colder climates as they can provide consistent heating even during extreme weather conditions. However, electric furnaces may be a more suitable option for areas with warmer climates as they are not affected by outdoor temperature fluctuations. 

Regarding maintenance, gas furnaces may require more attention and regular servicing to ensure safety and efficiency. This includes checking for gas leaks, cleaning the burners, and changing the filters. On the other hand, electric furnaces have fewer components and therefore require less maintenance. However, it is important to note that a professional should regularly inspect both furnaces to prevent any potential issues. 

So, who do you call for the best prices on Ohio’s professional furnace services? 

You call Five Star Home Services! 

We stand behind all our work and offer competitive pricing on the most professional products and services!