Are Gas Furnaces Expensive to Run When Compared to Electric Furnace?
When it comes to picking the right heating system for your home, there’s a lot to consider. Natural gas furnaces are a solid option, but not all areas have the required piping facilities. For that reason, many homeowners opt to install an electric furnace. However, the initial price and the maintenance and operational costs are the deciding factors for most.
Let’s see which furnace is less expensive in the long run.
Electric furnaces overview
The main advantage of an electric furnace is its low initial cost. Electric heating equipment is straightforward, with closely wrapped coils installed directly within the air handler cabinet. Heat is produced by an electric resistance current, which is driven through the ductwork by a blower fan. When comparing the burners, combustion mechanism, and heat exchanger elements in a gas furnace, coils are pretty inexpensive. Overall, an electric furnace can cost 25-50% less than a gas furnace in terms of the initial investment.
Since no gas lines or vent pipes are involved, the installation process for an electric unit is much simpler. Electric furnaces are also quieter and have a longer lifespan than gas furnaces. Again, this is primarily due to the design’s relative simplicity.
Electric heating systems need little maintenance and are easy to operate. They also present a more eco-friendly option since there’s no fuel used during the combustion process. As a result, the risk of inadvertently inhaling carbon monoxide and other waste gas byproducts is eliminated.
Gas furnaces overview
Using a gas furnace is significantly less expensive than the electrical alternative. Natural gas is an affordable energy source, and its cost per therm has decreased in recent years. Since the combustion chamber within a gas unit can reach higher temperatures, gas heating appliances can heat the house faster than electric resistance heating.
However, gas furnaces make for a more costly purchase. Because they contain many complex parts, the installation process requires further expenses. Also, to ensure the machine is running correctly, routine maintenance must be performed by a qualified HVAC specialist. If not fixed immediately, a broken heat exchanger or compromised venting can pose a severe safety risk.
The verdict
Electric furnaces have an advantage over gas furnaces in terms of installation costs, noise levels, and reliability. However, some homeowners still choose gas furnaces due to the significant disparity in maintenance costs. If operational costs are a deciding factor, then gas furnaces are a better fit for you.
Both heating systems come with several financial advantages. For a more detailed overview, it’s best to consult a certified HVAC expert.
Modern Air Conditioning & Heating is a Boulder City-based HVAC company offering 15 years of experience in residential and commercial HVAC services for all makes and models. You can also call us directly at (702) 919-4365.
