When a furnace no longer works, it needs to be replaced. Before scheduling your furnace installation, consider the differences between gas and electric furnaces. It’s essential to know about maintenance requirements and expected efficiency when picking a furnace. Here’s a brief guide each to furnace type to help you make your decision.

Gas Furnaces

How They Work

Natural or propane gas is ignited in the burner of the gas furnace, the flames then heat the metal exchanger. This transfers heat to the incoming air, which is then forced out into the ductwork. The process repeats by cycling the cold air into the ducts

Heat and Efficiency 

Gas units heat up your home quickly and are especially efficient during below-freezing temperatures. While a new model will be highly efficient, over time, gas furnaces and their ductwork should be regularly inspected to keep efficiency up.

Safety and Maintenance 

Always have a professional perform maintenance on your gas furnace because of the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning that can occur with incorrect installation. Although gas furnaces cost more upfront, their operational cost is low because natural gas is a cheap utility.

Electric Furnaces

How They Work

An electric furnace uses electricity to heat the furnace through the use of electrical coils. Similar to a hairdryer, the coils heat up and push hot air out the heat exchanger and into your home’s vents.

Heat and Efficiency 

Electric furnaces are more fuel-efficient than gas furnaces, with  some reaching 100% efficiency.  As the temperature gets colder, electric furnaces can take longer to heat.

Safety and Maintenance 

As with gas furnaces, for your safety, leave furnace installation to the professionals. It’s possible to receive an electric shock from fiddling with wires. However, there is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from electric furnaces. Installation is cheaper than with gas furnaces, but electric heat will cost more in the long run through your electricity bill.

If you need furnace installation or maintenance for your gas or electric heating system, contact Valley Mechanical in Naples, NY. This team of bonded, insured, and licensed HVAC electric, gas, propane, and heating oil professionals have serviced Steuben, Yates, and Ontario counties since 1999. For emergency service, or to speak to a technician, call (585) 374-6866, or visit them online for more information.