Do you feel the temperature dropping?
It’s that time of the year again when furnaces are a top priority. And if you’re starting to consider adding one to your home, you’ve likely come across two types – electric and gas furnaces. Both, the same, different, and neither – there’s nothing simple about which one you should pick.
But, since you’ve stumbled across this article, we’ll lay it all out for you. Keep reading to learn all about gas vs electric furnace differences!
Gas vs Electric Furnace: The Differences
Electric furnaces are powered by electricity, while gas furnaces use either natural gas or propane. Gas furnaces are more common in older homes, while electric furnaces are more popular in newer homes.
The main difference between the two types of furnaces is how they generate heat. Electric furnaces generate heat by passing electric current through a resistive element, while gas furnaces generate heat by burning fuel.
Which Is More Efficient?
Electric furnaces are 100 percent efficient, meaning all the energy they use is converted into heat. Gas furnaces, on the other hand, are only about 80 percent efficient, so 20 percent of the energy they use is wasted.
But to understand more about the efficiency of furnaces, you have to do your own research about British thermal units (btu) and what they mean for your home. See the comparisons between electric furnace btu and gas furnace btu.
Cost Comparison
Electric furnaces are more expensive to operate than gas furnaces. This is because gas furnaces require a constant supply of natural gas, which is less expensive. While electric furnaces use electricity to generate heat, which is can be expensive.
Maintenance and Repair
Both types of furnace need regular maintenance and occasional repairs in order to keep them operating efficiently and safely. But electric furnaces typically require less maintenance than gas furnaces. Gas furnaces need to have their burners cleaned and adjusted regularly, while electric furnaces typically only require that their filters be changed on a regular basis.
Another notable difference between the two is that electric furnaces are much easier to maintain and repair. Gas furnaces require annual tune-ups and are more susceptible to breakdowns. Additionally, electric furnaces typically have a longer lifespan than gas furnaces.
Which Is Better for the Environment?
Electric furnaces do not produce emissions and are therefore a cleaner option for the environment. This is especially true if the electricity used to power an electric furnace comes from renewable sources.
On the other hand, emissions from gas furnaces can be a significant source of pollution. If a gas furnace is not properly maintained, it can release harmful pollutants into the air like carbon monoxide and other greenhouse gasses.
Choose the Furnace That Suits Your Home
There are several key differences between electric and gas furnaces that should be considered when deciding which type of furnace is right for your home. An electric furnace may be more expensive to operate, but it is also more efficient and easier to maintain. A gas furnace is less expensive to operate, but not as efficient and requires more maintenance.
In the end, it’s all up to you how you will handle the coming cold months.
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