Whether you’ve moved into a new home or your current furnace simply isn’t working as smoothly as it should, replacing your furnace is a significant project. When it comes to your family’s comfort here in Louisville, CO, an effective furnace is an absolute necessity.
Today’s homeowners rave about the benefits of electric and gas furnaces. If you feel stuck choosing between an electric or gas furnace, there are several factors you should consider to decide which system is best for you.
Here are the pros and cons of an electric vs. gas furnace and how to choose between an electric or gas furnace to fit your specific needs.
Energy Efficiency
When considering the advantages of an electric vs. gas furnace, many homeowners immediately think about energy efficiency. Not only does high energy efficiency mean that you’ll waste less energy and help the environment, but it also could mean significant savings on your energy bills.
In general, electric furnaces are known to be more energy-efficient than their gas counterparts. Electric furnaces can have an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating as high as 100 percent. Alternatively, gas furnaces tend to hold AFUE ratings as high as 97 percent.
However, if you choose between an electric or gas furnace, it’s also essential to consider all factors before coming to a decision. These factors include the pros and cons of the fuel type.
Fuel Type
As their names suggest, electric furnaces run on electricity, and gas furnaces operate on natural gas. On average, the costs to install electric furnaces are lower than the costs of their gas equivalents. However, electric furnaces can often be more expensive to operate gas systems. This means that, as a whole, electric furnaces will most likely cost you more in the long run.
If you choose between an electric or gas furnace, it’s vital to keep safety in mind. No matter if you decide on an electric vs. gas furnace, improper installations or poor maintenance of either type of furnace can lead to safety risks.
An improperly installed or maintained electric furnace can lead to short-circuiting and, potentially, electrical fires.
Since gas furnaces run on combustible fuel, these types of furnaces can pose potential risks. In the most extreme instance, a poorly-maintained gas furnace can result in carbon monoxide poisoning.
With a gas furnace, ensure that your carbon monoxide detector is working correctly. For trustworthy gas or electric heating system installations, reach out to Speaks for professional heating services in Louisville, CO.
Lifespan
Another factor that can play into the costs of electric vs. gas furnaces is overall lifespan. Gas heating systems can last up to 20 years, while electric units can last upwards of 30 years.
Since electric furnaces are known to last longer, you won’t have to worry about replacement costs for, most likely, a decade longer when compared to gas units. Regardless of what you choose between an electric or gas furnace to heat your home, it’s vital to schedule routine maintenance. Both electric and gas systems need regular tune-ups to ensure overall health and longevity.
Convenience
We all want our homes to be havens of comfort and convenience. So naturally, when deciding between electric vs. gas furnaces, you want to feel confident that your heating system is working with you, not against you.
Gas furnaces suit colder climates exceptionally well, making them fantastic choices for Louisville homeowners. Additionally, gas units pair nicely with air conditioners and heat pumps. At the same time, access to natural gas is not always a guarantee.
Electric furnaces are quieter than their gas counterparts, and as a bonus, electric units require no additional utility hookups. Essentially, if you have electricity in your home, you can install an electric furnace with no problem.
Trust the Help of a Professional
If you are still unsure whether you should install a gas or electric furnace, seek out the help of a professional HVAC technician. Here at Squeaks, we handle all heating and cooling needs, from air conditioning installations to heating repairs in Louisville, CO. Our technicians are skilled at servicing furnaces from major brands, such as Rheem, Carrier, Lennox, Goodman, Trane, and American Standard. Contact us to schedule a furnace installation at your earliest convenience!
