Do you have an old, worn-out furnace? Or are you tired of constant furnace repair in Cupertino, CA? Then it might be time for an upgrade. And when it comes time for a new furnace you might wonder, is gas or electric a better option for your home? Both have distinct advantages and disadvantages.
While there may be limitations based on existing infrastructure, in most cases, it is simply a matter of preference. What are your priorities? Is efficiency the biggest concern? Or do you want to keep installation costs down? Here we will discuss some of the differences between gas and electric heating systems so that you can make an informed decision on which one is better suited for your needs.
Gas Furnaces
Gas furnaces are the most popular. They are readily available in a variety of sizes. These furnaces use propane or natural gas to generate heat. Once the air is warm, the furnace uses fans and blowers to circulate the heat through the ductwork. Gas furnaces usually offer a faster warm-up time and are more efficient than electric heating systems. They are a good option in colder climates when you want fast results. And in the last few years, the cost of electricity has gone up dramatically while the cost of natural gas has remained relatively steady. Finally, gas furnaces tend to last anywhere from 10 to 20 years without the need to be replaced. That said, because of the gas, furnaces can be dangerous without proper maintenance.
Electric Furnaces
Electric furnaces are not as common, but they do have several advantages and could be a good alternative heating source for some homes. For one thing, electric furnaces are cheaper to install. They might be a good option for people looking to save costs upfront. They tend to run more quietly and do not require very much maintenance. They also pose less risk to those living in the home because they do not emit carbon monoxide. And most electric furnaces can last for 20 to 30 years or more, which is a lot longer than gas furnaces. That said, the cost to operate an electric furnace is usually higher in the long run. Electrical heating is also inherently inefficient because coal represents one of the primary fuels to produce electricity. And coal does not burn as clean as natural gas. Lastly, an electrical unit does not achieve higher temperatures as well as a gas unit. Electric furnaces often work best in dry climates with hot or mixed temperatures.
Which is Better?
There are a lot of different factors to consider when choosing a furnace for your home. In most cases, furnace choices are based largely on fuel availability. In some areas, the piping infrastructure for natural gas is not available and homeowners are limited in their options. But it is also important to think about cost, durability, efficiency, and furnace repair in Cupertino, CA. For help finding the right heating system for your home contact the HVAC experts. Call Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning today.
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