Home Heating Systems: Gas vs. Electric

What’s the Difference, and What’s Right for Me?

When you’re wanting to install a home heating system, you’ll want to be sure that you’re making the right decision for you and your family. When looking at furnaces, you’ll find that there are two basic types you have to choose from gas and electric. On the surface, the end result looks and feels the same. Your home will be heated and you’ll be able to live in comfort during the cold months of the year. Depending on your preferences, however, there are several key differences to stay aware of when deciding between gas and electric. Johnson Heating & Cooling is a team of experts, providing answers to Central Indiana’s needs since 1968, and we can help determine which will be right for you. However, what are the pros and cons of gas and electric furnaces?

Gas Furnaces

Gas furnaces are the most typical pieces of equipment that people assume when you refer to a furnace. These have been in widespread use for many decades, and operate with a pilot light to create heat throughout your home.

Pros:
With instantly operating burners producing heat for your home, gas furnaces produce a large amount of heat quickly and can have an instant impact on your home comfort. Additionally, natural gas is inexpensive compared to electricity almost everywhere in the country. This efficiency means somewhat lower total bills on your heating.

Cons:
While the immediate impact and efficiency is large, these units can be expensive up-front and require more general maintenance throughout the lifespan of the unit. Additionally, natural gas has the possibility of putting dangerous fumes into the air, and you’ll want to have a carbon monoxide detector in order to be safe.

Electric Furnaces

Electric furnaces are a newer technology, but in many respects, they are still entirely viable and efficient pieces of equipment to heat your home. These use electricity to provide heat, instead of natural gas, meaning you won’t need a natural gas line in your home for this.

Pros:
Electric units are more inexpensive up-front, and the heat they produce is quieter. These units are easy to maintain, and since they don’t utilize natural gas, they are entirely safe for your home’s air.

Cons:
While electric units are energy efficient in the heat they produce, the simple fact that electricity is more expensive than gas is enough to make your monthly heating bill slightly higher. Additionally, since they require a heating element, you won’t get heat quite as instantly as you would with a gas unit.

Trust Johnson Heating & Cooling for Your Furnace Installation and Repair

We’ve worked with the latest in heating technologies since 1968 and will be able to consult with you to determine the best equipment to suit your own unique needs. Call us today, and get started with your next furnace system.