Gas vs Electric Furnace: 4 Differences

Gas and electric furnaces are both forced-air heating systems, which means they heat air directly and distribute that air through a series of ducts throughout your home. Both types of furnaces are popular throughout the Denver Metro Area, but there are a few key differences.

Below we break down the major differences between gas and electric furnaces. If you have questions or need some guidance in choosing a furnace, consult a professional! Everyone’s home and needs are a little different, and getting a custom recommendation is your best bet.

The Cost

Gas furnaces typically cost more to buy and install than electric furnaces, but electricity typically costs more than natural gas, so owners of gas furnaces will recoup their money over time. Even though they tend to last a few years less than electric furnaces, gas furnaces are less expensive over their lifespan. The only exception: a small home in a warm climate.

A small home in a warm climate will require far less heat than a large home in a colder climate like Denver, so the initial cost of a gas furnace may not be recouped over time. But, if you own a larger home in a colder climate, the better option almost always is a gas furnace.

Energy Efficiency

Gas furnaces use less energy and heat homes faster than electric furnaces. Electric furnaces take more time to heat up, so in climates like Denver with below freezing temperatures, electric heaters will take much longer to heat your home.

The Maintenance

All furnaces require regular cleaning and maintenance to perform efficiently. Gas furnaces tend to require more maintenance because of the burners, gas valves and igniter, but electric furnaces are prone to more wear and tear if they are warming a home in a colder climate.

Safety

Gas furnaces burn natural gas to heat your home which produces a small amount of carbon monoxide that is safely vented from your home. If your heat exchanger is cracked or your furnace is burning too much gas, carbon monoxide can leak into your home which can be very harmful. Therefore, electric furnaces tend to be the safer option, but in general, all furnaces are very safe if they are regularly cleaned and maintained.

As mentioned above, the cost, efficiency and maintenance of gas and electric furnaces heavily depends on the climate. Gas furnaces tend to be the better choice for homes in colder climates like Denver, but if your home is quite small or is in a warmer climate, the choice is not so simple.

In need of a new furnace in the Denver Metro Area? Grand Home Services is located in Aurora, Colorado and provides HVAC services throughout Denver. Call or contact us online today!