Difference Between Gas and Electric Furnaces

What’s the Difference Between Gas and Electric Furnaces?

When winter approaches, you want to make sure your home has a reliable furnace to keep your house warm and cozy. Not all heating systems and furnaces are created equally, and it’s important to choose a furnace that suits your home’s heating needs. Whether you need a furnace for your new home or are replacing your old one, you’ll need to make the decision between a gas or an electric furnace.

Investing in a new furnace is a big deal, and you want to make sure you choose the right one for your needs. Doing proper research and teaming up with a furnace professional will ensure you choose the proper furnace to best heat your home. Both gas and electric furnaces have pros and cons. It’s up to you and your trusted heating professional to determine which one is best suited for your home.

We’ve laid out the difference between gas and electric furnaces, along with their pros and cons, to help you make an informed decision.

Gas Furnaces

When most people think of furnaces, a gas furnace is probably the first thing that comes to mind. They are natural gas-powered heating systems that create original heat. A natural gas furnace can be paired with a split-system air conditioner or heat pump.

Some pros of gas furnaces include:

· Cheaper to run, since natural gas is a less expensive utility

· Provide powerful heating

· Pairs well with air conditioners and heat pumps for year-round heating when needed

Some cons of gas furnaces include:

· Requires the use of natural gas lines

· Requires you to have a carbon monoxide detector in your home

· More upfront costs, since it’s more expensive to install

If you already have access to natural gas lines and don’t mind paying more up front, then a gas furnace may be the best option for you, especially if you want to save on utility costs in the long run or if your home needs more powerful heating during the winter.

Electric Furnaces

Electric furnaces have become increasingly popular because of their low purchase price and less risk of hazard from gas. An electric furnace is basically an air handler that can be paired with your air conditioner or heat pump. It usually contains your air distribution system, indoor coil, and heat traps.

The heat strips are powered by electricity, which create the heat for your home. They don’t require the use of gas or fuels at all.

Some pros of electric furnaces include:

· Don’t have to use natural gas

· Lower upfront costs

· Can be used for heating and cooling needs year-round, depending on where you live

Some cons of electric furnaces include:

· Can cause higher utility costs

· Doesn’t transfer heat

· May have to strain to meet your home’s heating demands

If you live in an area that doesn’t have severe winters, an electric furnace may be more practical for you. It’s also a safe option for those who don’t feel comfortable with a heating system that uses gas.

Gas or Electric: The Choice Is Yours (But We Can Help)

When it comes to gas versus electric furnaces, it all comes down to a matter of preference. Both offer a variety of benefits and disadvantages. Important factors to consider are where you live, what your home’s heating needs are, and your budget. If you need help deciding which type of furnace would work best for your heating needs, contact a professional HVAC specialist. They can point you in the right direction and help you choose a type, brand, and size that’s right for your home.

If you’re located in the Northern Virginia area, you can reach out to us for electric or gas furnace services. Call 703-291-1926 or contact us online.