Choosing between a new gas or electric furnace can feel a bit like buying a new car. Do you go for the better gas mileage or the lower maintenance costs? Cup holders or heated seats? The short answer, in both car buying and furnace upgrading, is that it’s really a personal choice.
Let’s talk pros and cons of an electric furnace.
An electric furnace is usually cheaper and easier to install. It will run more quietly than a gas furnace and is likely to last longer. There’s no risk of a carbon monoxide leak, so they’re safer to operate. The maintenance is a bit easier on electric furnaces, too.
On the other hand, energy costs tend to be higher for electric furnaces. Plus, they don’t heat as efficiently, which is a big deal when it comes to bitter cold Omaha winters.
Gas furnaces really turn the heat up.
Gas furnaces are more efficient, hotter heaters. That helps significantly when the weather turns really cold, especially in bigger spaces. The energy cost to run a gas furnace is lower than an electric furnace. While gas furnaces can be more expensive up front, that extra cost is often offset by the energy savings over time.
Gas furnaces are more complex to install because of the specialized equipment and the carbon monoxide risk. These systems need routine furnace maintenance to ensure they run at peak efficiency and operate safely. They’re also a bit noisier than electric furnaces, though you may not notice the noise if the furnace is in your garage or basement.
If you’re still not sure which furnace is right for your home, give the furnace experts at Burton a call. We can walk you through options to fit your budget and home size. We also offer a special new furnace purchase and installation discount. Don’t freeze this winter, just call Burton!
