Should You Upgrade to an Electrical Furnace Over a Gas One?
While it would be nice if they did, heating systems simply don’t last forever. You may be considering switching from gas to electric when it’s time for your next upgrade. There are a few things you’ll want to think about when making your purchasing decision.
Electric Versus Gas Furnaces
Before comparing electric and gas furnaces, it’s essential to understand their differences. A gas furnace operates by burning natural gas or propane to generate heat. It contains an internal combustion chamber equipped with burners that ignite the fuel. As air passes through its heat exchanger, it warms up before being delivered to the various rooms of your home.
In contrast, an electric furnace does not burn fuel to produce heat. Instead, it relies on an internal heating element powered by electricity. A blower fan pulls cold air from your home and forces it over this heating element, warming the air before distributing it throughout the house.
Efficiency
One of the biggest concerns for homeowners when investing in a new furnace installation is its overall operating efficiency. Most standard gas furnaces will have an operating efficiency of around 80 to 85%. There are also high-efficiency gas furnaces with a higher upfront cost that can offer an efficiency in the 90% range. On the other hand, electric furnaces offer 100% efficiency, making them the more efficient option.
Operating Cost
Another significant factor that matters to homeowners is how costly their new furnace will be to run. The price of natural gas is going to be much cheaper than that of electricity in pretty much all parts of the country. This means that an electric furnace will cost you more to run than its gas alternative.
Safety
Safety is a major concern for homeowners when selecting a furnace. All furnaces contain electrical components that, while generally safe, can occasionally pose a fire risk. However, gas furnaces have unique safety considerations, as they burn fuel to generate heat, producing exhaust byproducts that must be vented properly. If a malfunction occurs, these byproducts, including carbon monoxide, can enter your home.
From a safety perspective, electric furnaces are advantageous because they do not emit toxic fumes. However, the risks associated with gas furnaces can be effectively managed. Installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home is a proactive measure that allows you to respond swiftly in case of any issues, ensuring your family’s safety. Regular maintenance of gas furnaces also plays a critical role in minimizing risks by identifying and addressing potential problems before they escalate.
Maintenance Needs
Both electric and gas furnaces require annual maintenance by a licensed HVAC technician to ensure optimal performance. However, maintenance for electric furnaces tends to be quicker and more straightforward than for gas furnaces.
Electric furnaces generally need less complex upkeep, focusing primarily on cleaning and checking electrical connections. In contrast, gas furnaces require more comprehensive attention, including inspecting the ventilation system, checking supply lines, and ensuring all components associated with burning gas function correctly. These additional steps help prevent safety hazards, such as gas leaks or improper venting of exhaust gases.
Air Temperature
The overall performance of gas and electric furnaces varies significantly in terms of the air temperature they produce. An electric furnace typically heats air to around 95 degrees, while a gas furnace can heat air to temperatures ranging from 120 to 140 degrees.
This difference means gas furnaces can deliver warmer air faster, allowing your home to reach the desired temperature setting quicker than electric furnaces. As a result, homeowners often prefer gas furnaces in colder climates where efficient heating is essential for maintaining comfort during harsh winters.
Upfront Cost
One of the primary considerations for homeowners when selecting a new furnace is the upfront cost. Generally, electric furnaces are less expensive than gas furnaces with equivalent heating capacities. The initial purchase price of a gas furnace can be one and a half to two times higher than that of an electric furnace.
Helpful Furnace Installation Service
At Jeffries Heating & Air + Plumbing, we have served the Somerset, KY community for years. We install, maintain, and repair furnaces and cooling systems. We can also help with all your indoor air quality and plumbing needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable technicians.
