Are you looking to purchase a new heating system for your residence or workplace? Gas and electric furnaces are two good options to consider.
Assuming your existing furnace is over 15 years old and demands frequent repairs? In that case, it’s time to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model. However, the decision between electric furnace vs gas can be perplexing. Notably, in BC, Canada, most homeowners prefer natural gas (49%) over electric furnaces (34%).
There are many factors which we shall discuss in this blog so you can determine which heater is best for you. In order to help you make an informed choice, we will walk you through the benefits and drawbacks.
Should you be contemplating a new furnace installation or seek professional advice, contact the heating and cooling experts at Knowledge HVAC & Refrigeration Ltd. Our team is committed to providing reliable and trustworthy services for all your heating and cooling needs.
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Gas Furnaces
As its name implies, a gas furnace is a heating appliance that operates on natural gas or propane. It comprises with essential components such as a inducer fan, burners, heat exchanger, blower motor, and flue.
When a space becomes cold, the thermostat signals the furnace to heat the area. The burners then lights and burned the natural gas whenever the gas valve is opened. The entire process is being control by an electronic circuit board. This process allows the space to be warm base upon your desire comfort.
Pros of a Gas Furnace
- Cost-effective operation.
- More powerful, safer, and more efficient than electric furnaces.
- Cleaner burning compared to the fuels required for electricity.
- It can be paired with a cooling system.
- Heats spaces faster, producing warmer air than electric furnaces.
Cons of a Gas Furnace
- It is a relatively costly installation.
- Risk of carbon monoxide production if not properly maintained.
- Shorter service life compared to electric furnaces.
- It requires a gas line; installation is needed if outside the home.
Electric Furnaces
Like a traditional gas furnace, an electric furnace generates heat using electric heating elements instead of gas burners. Air is drawn into the system, passed through a heat exchanger, heated, and then propelled by a blower into the ductwork for distribution throughout the building.
Pros of an Electric Furnace
- Requires minimal maintenance.
- It can last up to 30 years.
- Does not emit carbon monoxide.
- Some models have a cooling mode for warmer months.
Cons of an Electric Furnace
- It is more costly to operate than gas furnaces.
- Removes more moisture from the air.
- Heats space more slowly compared to gas furnaces.
A Comparative Analysis of Electric vs Gas Furnaces
Cost
New gas furnaces generally come with a higher initial price tag and installation cost than electric ones. However, considering that electricity tends to be more expensive than natural gas in many regions, those with gas furnaces can expect to recover their investment through lower energy expenses over time. Improved energy efficiency leads to more significant savings in the long term.
Opt for a more affordable electric furnace if you reside in a smaller home and in a warmer climate. Therefore, there won’t be the need for frequent use, resulting in potential energy savings. On the other hand, do you own a larger home in an area with harsh winters? Consider a gas furnace, you stand to save more money over the lifespan of a gas furnace.
Installation
Electric furnaces are generally more straightforward and cost-effective to install than their gas counterparts. Therefore, it is advisable to enlist the services of a certified heating and cooling contractor. Nevertheless, having the right installation team will possess extensive experience in installing such equipment.
Lifespan
Electric furnaces often have a lifespan of 20 years or more, while gas furnaces typically last between 15 to 20 years.
Maintenance
Regular annual maintenance is crucial for both furnaces to operate at peak efficiency. A yearly tune-up will clean the internal components and identify potential issues that could lead to costly repairs in the future. Regarding furnace maintenance in Vancouver, you can always depend on Knowledge HVAC & Refrigeration Ltd.
Safety
Since gas furnace systems burn fuel, there is a potential risk of carbon monoxide production. This can be harmful and, in extreme cases, fatal if a leak occurs. Carbon monoxide leaks typically stem from cracks in the heat exchanger resulting from fuel combustion.
In comparison, electric furnaces are generally considered a safer option. However, it’s essential to note that gas furnaces can also be safe if regularly maintain. Regular maintenance significantly reduces the likelihood of a carbon monoxide leak.
Energy Savings
Gas furnaces outperform electric furnaces in terms of energy efficiency. They require less energy to heat the same space and have the added benefit of heating homes more rapidly.
Conversely, electric furnaces take longer to heat up due to their reliance on a network of coils as the heat source. This longer heating time is particularly noticeable in areas with colder climate. Additionally, electric furnaces are more prone to wear and tear as they strive to meet heating demands in colder regions.
Why Does This Matter?
Opting for electricity over natural gas for heating, warms your home and significantly reduces carbon and other air pollutants. On the other hand, natural gas is cleaner than oil heating. Note, it is substantially more polluting, approximately 17 times more than the electricity we use, primarily sourced from hydropower.
Transitioning to electricity for heating is a cost-effective strategy to minimize pollution and align with a more sustainable future. Governments across all levels in Canada are committed to reducing fossil fuel usage in buildings by 2030, making electric heating a pivotal part of this initiative.
The Takeaway
Electric furnace provide a safe and reliable heating solution while simultaneously contributing to pollution reduction. Importantly, these benefits don’t have to translate into higher utility bills.
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Do you need clarification on which furnace system suits your home best? Our furnace installer at Knowledge HVAC & Refrigeration Ltd are here to assist you in evaluating the pros and cons of each system, ensuring you make an informed decision.
Knowledge HVAC & Refrigeration Ltd has been the trusted provider of heating and air conditioning services for the residents of Vancouver. Installing a variety of heating equipment, such as hot water boilers, electric heat pumps, gas furnaces, and geothermal heating systems, is a specialty of our highly skilled, qualified furnace installer in Vancouver. If you need a new unit to enhance your home’s heating or cooling efficiency, contact us at +1-778-522-5669 at your earliest convenience.
You can rely on us for dependable service; our track record speaks for itself. We hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, received the Home Stars Best Award in 2021, and maintain a stellar 4.9 out of 5 rating on Google Reviews, based on over 120+ reviews. Make an appointment today for all your heating system installation, maintenance, and repairs.
