Is a Gas or Electric Furnace Better?

Cost

When making any significant investment in your home, the cost is always a crucial factor. Electric furnaces tend to cost less initially, but their annual operating cost can be more than double that of a gas furnace because electricity currently costs much more than natural gas. Gas furnaces also heat homes faster, making them the better option for larger homes. A gas furnace is usually the most cost-effective option, even when you factor in the cost of an annual tune-up. We recommend electric furnaces for smaller homes and homes that do not have access to natural gas.

Lifespan

Before committing to a type of furnace, you want to know how long it will last. Once you’ve made your purchase, you don’t want to replace your furnace again a few years down the road. You can expect to get around 20 years of use from a gas furnace if you keep up with annual maintenance and service when necessary. An electric furnace requires little to no maintenance and will likely last longer than the gas variety. That being said, low or mid-grade electric furnace systems will struggle when the temperature really drops - this can affect how long your furnace lasts.

Health & Environmental Impact

Deciding on a furnace that’s best for the environment can be a little tricky. Natural gas is considered a reasonably clean-burning fuel, but its extraction process releases methane into the air, which negates some of those benefits. Carbon monoxide is a hazard associated with gas furnaces. This odorless gas can be fatal if you breathe it in large amounts.

However, as long as you stay on top of furnace upkeep and install carbon monoxide detectors in your home, the risk to your health and safety is minimal. Regardless of which type of furnace you choose, it’s important to go with a high-efficiency model. New furnace systems are more efficient than ever, and a high-efficiency one will save you money over the long term.

Gas or Electric Furnace: The Verdict

Many families prefer the fast heating and lower operating costs of gas furnaces. Other homeowners don’t want to worry about annual maintenance or the chance of carbon monoxide leaking into their homes. No matter which type you choose, our expert technicians will provide you with professional installation and follow-up service.

Give us a call with any questions you have and to schedule your free estimate. We’re located in Lexington, KY, and are happy to serve the surrounding areas, including Versailles, Winchester, Georgetown, Paris, Wilmore, and Nicholasville, KY. Let us put our 32 years of industry experience to work for you.