If you’re considering replacing your furnace, you’re probably wondering about the differences between gas and electric furnaces, and where heat pumps fall into the mix. You’re probably also concerned about which option is the best choice for your home. Unfortunately, the answer is that it depends on your specific situation. Here are the differences between these three heating options to help you decide.
Gas Furnace
A gas furnace will provide fast heat very efficiently, with some units reaching up to 98 percent efficiency for the fuel used. It also can provide superior humidity control and keep your home or business more comfortable. But because gas furnaces use combustion to provide heat, they need to be properly vented, and the systems often take up more room than other heating options. They also tend to be louder than other options and can produce carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide if there are problems with the system, which can be monitored with a carbon monoxide alarm in your home.
Electric Furnace
An electric furnace is quiet and provides heat, but is not nearly as efficient as a gas furnace. It’s also safer, with no combustion products being a risk to your family, and takes up less space. However, if temperatures get too low, they can have problems keeping up with demand and it tends to cost more to operate than gas furnaces do.
Heat Pumps
A heat pump, also called a split system or mini-split, isn’t technically a furnace at all. It essentially uses refrigeration technology and science to concentrate heat or cold from the outside air and move it into your home. A heat exchanger inside the home will then extract that heat or cold out of the system and into your home. A system like this can provide both heating and cooling, but only within a certain range of temperature. It is one of the most efficient forms of heating and cooling available today.
Now that you’ve had a chance to investigate your options and select the best one for your situation, it’s time to take action. Get a few quotes from reputable dealers and get your installation done before cold weather sets in. At Cox Air Conditioning and Heating, we’ve been serving the community since 1958 and welcome the opportunity to help with your needs. Please contact us with any questions or to schedule an appointment.
