Choosing which type of furnace and appliances would best suit a home can be a time consuming and confusing task. In order to choose whether a gas or an electric furnace should be selected, several questions should be answered. First and foremost is the question of whether natural gas is available. If it is not, the alternative of propane may be worth checking.
In most areas, there is no issue with acquiring natural gas. Natural gas furnaces are typically the most affordable choice, however in some regions, cost of gas has been on the rise. By checking with local natural gas distributors for average prices, a cost of use estimate based on family size and anticipated consumption would reveal important information to the decision process.
Even though gas furnaces and appliances are equipped with exhaust stacks or pipes which dispel harmful fumes such as carbon monoxide, natural gas (or propane) still has some aspect of an odor. Another consideration is maintenance. Gas furnaces should be professionally inspected on a yearly basis. An inspection for cracks, tiny holes, or leaks will ensure that carbon monoxide or gas leakage will not be an issue for the family or home.
Electric heating and appliances have pros and cons as well. A major benefit regarding electric is the reduced risk of carbon monoxide. Because there are no flames as with gas, electric is cleaner and typically safer. Costs, however, can be an issue in comparison. Rising electricity bills are prompting many homeowners to consider the switch from electric back to gas.
Square footage of the home, efficiency ratings, and warranty are all considerations when selecting a furnace. The government standard set in 1992 established a minimum efficiency rating for gas furnaces to be 78%. This means that a minimum of 78% of the gas is converted into heat. Many models of gas furnaces are currently running at 96% and higher. Energy star ratings for some makes and models have even been rated near 98%.
After the decision of which to use, natural gas or an electric furnace has been made, there are still many questions left. The price of the unit itself should not be the only major deciding factor for which model furnace to purchase. Consulting a competent installation professional will help to answer some of these important questions. To be sure that the furnace chosen for the home is the best option, consulting a reputable dealer is a must. The Better Business Bureau is a great first step in choosing a professional. Also be sure that the company chosen installs the models of furnaces researched, and that the company is licensed, bonded, and insured. The choice of furnace and often many appliances is an investment that can last over 20 years, so it is important to do your research before making a commitment to either.
In most areas, there is no issue with acquiring natural gas. Natural gas furnaces are typically the most affordable choice, however in some regions, cost of gas has been on the rise. By checking with local natural gas distributors for average prices, a cost of use estimate based on family size and anticipated consumption would reveal important information to the decision process.
Even though gas furnaces and appliances are equipped with exhaust stacks or pipes which dispel harmful fumes such as carbon monoxide, natural gas (or propane) still has some aspect of an odor. Another consideration is maintenance. Gas furnaces should be professionally inspected on a yearly basis. An inspection for cracks, tiny holes, or leaks will ensure that carbon monoxide or gas leakage will not be an issue for the family or home.
Electric heating and appliances have pros and cons as well. A major benefit regarding electric is the reduced risk of carbon monoxide. Because there are no flames as with gas, electric is cleaner and typically safer. Costs, however, can be an issue in comparison. Rising electricity bills are prompting many homeowners to consider the switch from electric back to gas.
Square footage of the home, efficiency ratings, and warranty are all considerations when selecting a furnace. The government standard set in 1992 established a minimum efficiency rating for gas furnaces to be 78%. This means that a minimum of 78% of the gas is converted into heat. Many models of gas furnaces are currently running at 96% and higher. Energy star ratings for some makes and models have even been rated near 98%.
After the decision of which to use, natural gas or an electric furnace has been made, there are still many questions left. The price of the unit itself should not be the only major deciding factor for which model furnace to purchase. Consulting a competent installation professional will help to answer some of these important questions. To be sure that the furnace chosen for the home is the best option, consulting a reputable dealer is a must. The Better Business Bureau is a great first step in choosing a professional. Also be sure that the company chosen installs the models of furnaces researched, and that the company is licensed, bonded, and insured. The choice of furnace and often many appliances is an investment that can last over 20 years, so it is important to do your research before making a commitment to either.
For more information and guidance about Heating and Cooling, visit Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog. |
