Pros and Cons of Gas Heat and Electric Heat for Cincinnati Homeowners

The two most popular heating fuels across the U.S. are natural gas and electricity. Each offers certain advantages and disadvantages – you’ll want to weigh them carefully when deciding which type of heating system to install in your Cincinnati home or commercial building.

Installation Pros and Cons

Gas furnaces require a more complex installation than electric models. You’ll need a professional to install the equipment, and it must be vented to a chimney or flue to expel combustion byproducts safely. If your home or business doesn’t already have a chimney or flue, one must be installed, adding to the complexity and cost of installation.

Electric furnaces are typically faster to install. They do not require a chimney or flue, so installation is less complex.

Cost Pros and Cons

Purchasing a gas furnace will cost more than an electric model. Because natural gas fuel is cheaper than electricity, the cost to heat your home or business with gas will be much less than with electricity.

Electric furnaces cost less to purchase than gas furnaces. Regarding ongoing operation cost, electric heat is usually more expensive, because electric power is more expensive than natural gas.

Lifespan Pros and Cons

Gas furnaces boast a service lifespan of 10 to 20 years. Electric heaters can last 20 to 30 years. Despite which system you have, service life can often be extended through regular maintenance and care.

Maintenance Pros and Cons

If you have a gas furnace, it should be professionally maintained by your HVAC contractor each year. Most electric furnaces require simple maintenance, which can be done by a pro or some homeowners may feel comfortable doing so. Both systems should be repaired by professionals.

Safety Pros and Cons

The main safety issue associated with gas heat is carbon monoxide leakage. Proper installation, venting, and maintenance will improve the system safety. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on each floor of a home with gas heat.

Electric heaters do not combust fuel, so carbo monoxide is not a risk. Should the system malfunction, a fire is possible. Regular maintenance can reduce this risk.

Nelson Comfort’s NATE-certified technicians will provide quality installation for whichever type of heating system you choose. Call us today to schedule a free estimate.

About The Author

Dan Detmer

Dan Detmer is the owner of Nelson Comfort. Dan was born into the heating and cooling industry, coming from a family of well respected HVAC contractors in Dayton, Ohio. After working in the family business, Dan decided to work for a local HVAC wholesale business helping local contractors grow their business. When he felt his heart moving him back into the residential and light commercial business, Dan joined the Mortimer Heating & Cooling team in Cincinnati, where he had called home and become part of the community for several years. After a short period of time Dan purchased the company and created what is today, Nelson Comfort. Today he operates a company based on integrity, honesty, and stellar customer service. If you have any questions feel free to tweet (at sign) NelsonComfort and we will get right back with you!