If it’s about time to have your furnace or heating system replaced, should you go with a gas or electric heater? Both heating options have several benefits, but chances are one is likely better for you and your home than the other. Read on to learn about the pros and cons of each heating system.
Gas Heaters
- Operating Costs: Gas heating is very affordable because it’s available almost everywhere in the U.S. Using a gas furnace can help save you money in the long term if you live in a cold climate and use your heater a lot.
- Upfront Costs: Gas furnaces are more expensive than electric versions, but you can save money in the long run. Gas furnaces do require a higher investment up front, and the installation is a bit more complicated.
- Heating Time: Gas heats up your home faster than electric heat. That’s because gas heaters produce maximum heat as soon as they start running.
- Lifespan: Gas furnaces typically last somewhere from 10 to 20 years which is only about half the lifespan of an electric unit.
- Maintenance: Gas furnaces will need to be maintained each year. Not doing so could put you at risk of being exposed to dangerous carbon monoxide gas.
Electric Heaters
- Operating Costs: Electric heat is more expensive than gas due to the higher cost of electricity. You won’t have to pay as much up front and the unit will last longer, but it will be more expensive each month.
- Upfront Costs: Electric heaters are easier to install and can be a good option in a warmer climate where you don’t need to run it as often as you would in other places. The installation process should not take long or disrupt your home.
- Heating Time: Electric heating has to power up and warm up so it’ll take a bit longer to warm your home but once it does you will stay nice and warm.
- Lifespan: Electric heaters usually last about twice as long as gas heaters do. That means they’ll hopefully last a minimum of 20 years and could keep working for up to 40 years if you’re lucky and take good care of them.
- Maintenance: You should have your electric heater checked out annually, but malfunctions aren’t very dangerous compared to those of gas heaters.
For more information on which option is best for you, contact Wolfers Heating at (503) 220-1901.
