Pro’s and Con’s of Owning a Gas Furnace

A gas furnace is one of the primary choices when it comes to heating homes across the United States. While equally effective as an electric furnace, there are pro’s and con’s associated with owning one. Natural gas heating appliances are very common and most often associated with home heating systems. Below we’ll look at various considerations when it’s time for furnace installation.

Gas Furnace Pro’s

The advantages that millions of homeowners realize include:

• Faster Heating: While both create original heat, gas systems produce it faster than electric ones. Warmth is provided no matter how cold the outside air gets. This is a bonus especially in colder climates.
• More Efficient: It’s less costly to run a gas furnace. Therefore, it is generally more affordable over time since lower energy consumption can translate to lower monthly utility bills. Natural gas is less expensive than electricity.
• Clean Burning: When natural gas burns, it causes little impact on the environment while reliably keeping you warm. By contrast, electricity is produced using fossil fuels that contribute to the release of greenhouse gases into the air.
• Versatile: It’s possible achieve heating and cooling year-round when you combine your gas furnace with an air conditioner and a heat pump. And since natural gas is widely available, homeowners virtually anywhere can take advantage of it. Also, finding fuel suppliers and competitive pricing is easy.

Gas Furnace Con’s

Some of the downsides to owning a gas model include:

• More Expensive to Install: The upfront cost of installation is higher than with an electric model. You can make up the difference over time, because running the furnace doesn’t cost as much.
• Emissions: Some carbon dioxide is released when the furnace is running. While a proper installation should negate any risk, improper installation or damage can cause issues.
• More Space Needed for Ductwork: If you decide to convert to a natural gas heating system, an important consideration is the space needed for oftentimes large, bulky ductwork and associated components.
• Shorter Operating Life: A well-maintained electric furnace can last 20 to 30 years. On the other hand, a gas furnace lasts only 10 to 15 years. You’ll therefore likely need to invest in a replacement much sooner with a gas model.

Is a Gas Furnace Right for My Home?

Your home may already have a gas unit installed by the person who built it. So, what happens when your old furnace fails? There are many reasons to consider a gas system as your own decision. The needs of your household, size of your home, and your location can help decide what path to take. If efficiency, faster heating, and a cozier space in wintertime are your priorities, a gas furnace is the way to go.

Sky Heating & Air Conditioning Can Provide Help with Furnace Installation/Replacement

If you are still not sure whether to go gas or electric, our technicians can help you weigh the pros and cons of each. Their knowledge and expertise can be invaluable during the coldest months, when furnaces are most likely to break down and/or fail. And if you need gas furnace repair, we’re available 24/7 and can fix almost any problem in one visit. Have you noticed strange noises, odors, frequent cycling, poor airflow, reduced comfort, or higher energy costs? Call us at (503) 563-2698 to schedule an appointment with Sky Heating & Air Conditioning.