Gas versus Electric Furnaces: Factors You Should Consider before Purchasing One

When you buy a new or replace an old furnace, you will have two options: gas and electric. Each furnace has its advantages and limitations and will require significant consideration to decide which alternative fits your criteria. Here are a few factors that differentiate electric and gas furnaces.

Installation

The cost of a gas furnace will depend on the size of the unit, its energy efficiency, and any special features it offers. A gas furnace can cost up to $3,850. In general, electric furnaces are more expensive to install than gas furnaces. The average cost of installing an electric furnace is $2,500.

Gas furnaces have a complex installation process because of the many safety concerns of working with gas lines. Gas furnaces produce carbon monoxide, which can be dangerous if it builds up in an enclosed space. Also, the installation technician must provide adequate measures to prevent a fire hazard.

However, electric furnaces are much easier to install than gas furnaces. They do not require any special permits or licenses and most qualified electricians can install them. Electric furnaces are also much smaller and lighter than gas furnaces, making them easier to handle and install.

Operation

Gas furnaces use a pilot light to ignite a burner that heats a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger transfers the heat to the air blown through the furnace by a blower motor. Electric furnaces operate by using electricity to heat a resistive element. The resistive element then heats the air blown through the furnace by a blower motor.

Electric furnaces are more eco-friendly than gas furnaces because they produce less carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. Gas furnaces produce more carbon dioxide because they use natural gas or propane.

Maintenance

One of the maintenance aspects of a gas furnace is to ensure the venting system is clear and unobstructed. The venting system helps to remove combustion byproducts from home, so it must be able to do its job correctly. If the venting system is blocked, it can cause carbon monoxide to build up inside the home, which can be very dangerous.

The next aspect of gas furnace maintenance is to clean the unit. A dirty gas furnace will not operate as efficiently as a clean one and can also be a fire hazard. You should also replace the filter regularly. Finally, a gas furnace must have adequate airflow. If there are gaps or cracks in the ductwork, it can restrict airflow and cause the furnace to overheat.



Electric furnaces require very little maintenance. The main concern is to keep the coils clean. The coils can become dirty over time and reduce the furnace's efficiency. Also, you must check the wiring in an electric furnace regularly. The wiring can become loose over time. The inspection will ensure the wiring remains tight. Finally, electric furnaces also need regular filter changes. The filter will clog over time and reduce the furnace's efficiency with infrequent changes.

Efficiency

Electric furnaces are often more expensive to operate than gas furnaces, but they are also more energy efficient. Electric furnaces convert all the fuel they use into heat, while gas furnaces only convert about 50% to 90% of the fuel they use into heat. Electric furnaces also do not produce emissions, while gas furnaces produce carbon dioxide and other pollutants.

Gas furnaces are more heat-efficient than electric furnaces because they use less energy to produce the same amount of heat. Gas furnaces also have a higher heating efficiency, meaning they convert more of the energy they use into heat instead of wasting it.

Whichever furnace type you buy, you should consult a technician for professional installation, maintenance, and repair. Contact us at D & R Service Inc for wall furnace services.