Gas Furnace or Electric Furnace: Which Option is the Best?

When it comes to staying cozy throughout the colder months, gas furnaces and electric furnaces have been known for being the most cost-efficient solution. While both may look very much alike from afar, there is a crucial difference between the two heating systems. 

So what is the difference between a gas furnace and an electric furnace? Let's discuss some of the key factors about both heating options, including the cost, efficiency, noise, and lifespan, to help you make an informed furnace installation choice in Lafayette, LA.

Upfront Cost

Electric Furnace: The average upfront cost of an electric furnace is more or less a thousand dollars. It's way less expensive than the gas counterpart. Its installation is also more affordable. Depending on your contractor, you may only need to pay a thousand bucks.

Gas Furnace: Its upfront cost ranges from $3000 to $4000 on average. So if you have a limited budget, this option may not be for you. Furthermore, this unit's installation cost may start from $1500. 

Operational Cost

Electric Furnace: While this type of furnace is less expensive to purchase and cheaper to install than its gas counterpart, its operational cost tends to be higher, especially if the rate of electricity in your area is already expensive in the first place. 

Gas Furnace: The gas furnace installation in Lafayette, LA and its upfront cost may be costly, but you're likely to get the return of your investment down the road. The price of natural gas in the U.S. is lower than electricity, so the operational cost of a gas furnace is also cheaper.

Efficiency

Electric Furnace: Its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating can be as high as 100%. It can convert all of the energy they use into heat. 

Gas Furnace: The gas furnace AFUE rating only ranges from 55 to 97%. This means some of the heat is lost in the process. Despite this downside, this type of furnace may still be an ideal option specifically for colder climates because the heat it produces is hotter than the heat from an electric furnace.

Maintenance

Electric Furnace: There is hardly any maintenance that needs to be done after the electric furnace installation in Lafayette, LA. It's an "idiot-proof" unit pretty much out of the box. There are no components that require frequent cleaning and inspection.

Gas Furnace: You need to thoroughly inspect and maintain a gas furnace regularly at least once every year or two, depending on how often you use it. The parts of this type of heating system will need some repairs and replacements as well from time to time.

Noise

Electric Furnace: This type of furnace has fewer moving or mechanical components, so it operates quietly. No distractions here whatsoever. So it's a good choice if you're planning for a furnace installation in Lafayette, LA and need a quiet unit.

Gas Furnace: This type of heating system has more moving components that may make some noise depending on the model you choose. If it's old or damaged, then you can expect it to be even louder than usual.

Lifespan

Electric Furnace: Electric furnaces are known for their long life expectancy. The lifespan of this unit varies depending on the manufacturer, though. But if well maintained and serviced regularly, an electric furnace can last several years without any major issues.

You may also want to check out the cost of home electrical panels since having one installed by an electrician may come with added costs as well.

Gas Furnace: Gas furnaces do not have a set lifespan, but they typically don't last as long as their electric counterpart. 

So, have you made your choice? If you still can't decide what furnace to install, you can seek help from Acadiana Comfort experts.

Learn more or contact the team here. The company offers expert furnace installation in Lafayette, LA and the surrounding communities.