Gas vs. Electric Heat: Which Is Best?
Selecting the right heating system — whether opting for an electric heater or a gas furnace — is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and cost-effective home environment. Replacing a heater includes understanding how the new unit works, the day-to-day expenses and what you need to do to keep it running smoothly.
Given so many factors, how can you make an informed decision? At Acme Air Conditioning & Heating, let our experts provide the list of pros and cons for each heating system. We’ll help you make the best-informed choice for your home and needs.
Gas Furnace Benefits And Mechanics
A gas furnace operates through a combustion process involving a heat exchanger and a blower, effectively warming a home. When the pilot light ignites the burner, the heat exchanger warms cold air from the intakes, circulated throughout the home by a blower. The system remains active until the thermostat signals the desired indoor temperature, at which point the gas heat turns off.
Gas furnaces offer several advantages that make them a popular choice for many homeowners. A few of them include:
- Natural gas can be more affordable than electricity.
- Natural gas is widely available for Longview residents.
- The system heats desired spaces quickly.
- These systems are highly adaptable.
When comparing gas vs. electricity heating costs, natural gas systems often cost less to operate. They can save you money over time compared to operating an electric heater.
Gas Heating Drawbacks
When it comes to home heating solutions, gas heating systems have long been favored for their efficiency and reliability. However, as with any technology, there are drawbacks to consider. Even though there any many benefits, consider some disadvantages that may come with using your gas heater:
- They often have a large upfront investment for installation.
- These systems have a shorter lifespan of 10–15 years
- Proper ventilation is necessary to release harmful byproducts.
- Homes without existing gas lines need them installed to operate these units.
Although yearly inspection is recommended for both gas and electric heaters, emphasis is put on gas heating due to its combustion process. Regular heater maintenance will ensure efficient operation and safety for everyone in your home.
Electric Heater Advantages And Functions
Different from a gas heater, an electric furnace operates via electricity, coils and a blower, effectively producing heat. The system pulls cold air into an exchanger, where electric heating coils warm the air. A blower then circulates the warmed air to maintain the desired indoor temperature based on thermostat settings.
Electric heaters are great for homes that aren’t already connected to a gas line. Other pros include:
- They have a lower upfront cost.
- Installation is easier since they don’t need special venting.
- They have a longer lifespan of 20–30 years.
- There is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from the system.
Since an electric heater is easier to install, it makes an excellent choice for many Longview residents. Reach out to our team to learn more about your options.
Disadvantages Of Electric Heating
For many Texas homes, electric heaters offer warmth and convenience throughout the chilly winter months. Although the advantages are great, here are some drawbacks homeowners experience with electric heaters:
- You’ll experience higher overall operational costs.
- It takes longer for these systems to heat your home.
- They’re less efficient at converting energy to heat.
- They’re less effective at warming larger spaces.
Electric heaters have an internal element that has to be heated before the system can warm the air. This is a slow process and can cause a burst of cold air from the vents right after the system is started. Despite this minor drawback, many homeowners live cozy all winter with their electric furnaces.
Heater Replacement In Longview
By weighing the pros and cons of electric and gas heating systems, you can make a well-informed decision for an efficient and comfortable home. Having to replace any major appliance in your home can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be!
At Acme Air Conditioning & Heating, we can help you with your electric or gas heater replacement. From simple heater maintenance to furnace repairs, we do it all. Give us a call when you need Acme AC to give you a hand!
