Deciding which type of furnace you want to have installed is an important decision, particularly if you live in a location that experiences harsh, frigid winters. In fact, the type of furnace you choose can determine how warm you stay in winter months. The expenses associated with operating and fixing a furnace may also be important to residents researching which type of furnace works best for their living spaces and their wallets.
Gas Furnaces
A gas furnace usually takes less time to heat a home than an electric unit, which can save a homeowner quite a bit of money over time. Another advantage of selecting a gas furnace is that the price of natural gas, which the equipment needs to operate, has been low for several years. Because a gas furnace can heat up to higher temperatures than an electric option, individuals who prefer a very well-heated home in winter months can experience very high levels of heat, which partially accounts for this style’s popularity.
A gas unit generally lasts 10-20 years before replacement is an issue. It usually costs more than an electric furnace, and it is critical that a qualified HVAC technician install the gas furnace to avoid the dangers that could result if it is not properly set up. Carbon monoxide poisoning, fires, and explosions can result from faulty installation, and an HVAC professional must provide maintenance to ensure that good venting in the home is present.
Electric Furnaces
An electric furnace’s lifespan is nearly double that of a gas furnace, and a homeowner can expect it to work effectively for 20-30 years. This makes an electric unit a reliable piece of equipment that can stand the test of time.
Electric furnaces tend to cost less than their gas counterparts, making them attractive to residents who are on a budget but who still need a reliable home heating system. However, operating an electric furnace is more costly than using a gas unit. Still, electric furnaces tend to operate quietly, install quickly, and take up less space due to their smaller design sizes.
Both gas furnaces and electric furnaces are excellent options for heating your home, helping you to feel comfortable and forget how cold it is outside. With proper maintenance and good judgment, your furnace should last many years. Choosing a furnace type based on its heating efficiency and cost are important factors to consider before selecting a style for your residence.
Because the proper installation and maintenance of a furnace is so important, you should contact an HVAC professional to be sure that the equipment runs smoothly. First Class HVAC has been assisting residents of Delaware towns like Arden and Milton and Maryland towns like Nanticoke and Berlin in choosing heating solutions for more than 40 years. Contact us today to discuss heating options for your home.