If you’re considering a new furnace, you might be stuck choosing between a gas or electric unit.
We have good news: Both types of furnaces work well in our area, and both will keep your home warm in the winter.
Which type of furnace is best for you depends on your preferences, such as:
- How much you’re willing to spend upfront
- How much you want to pay every month
- Whether or not you want combustible fuel in your home
We’ll look at each of these preferences to help you get a better idea of what type of furnace might be best for you.
Want a furnace recommendation from a San Antonio pro? We can help!
Gas vs Electric Furnace: Upfront Cost
In terms of upfront cost, gas furnaces are generally more expensive to install than electric furnaces.
Here’s why…
- The unit itself (not including installation) is more expensive. Gas units usually cost $500 to $1,500+ more than an electric unit.
- Gas furnaces have a higher installation cost than electric furnaces because they require special venting. This is especially true if you’re adding a gas furnace for the first time.
Installing a Gas Furnace for the First Time
Gas furnaces require special venting to remove harmful fumes produced during the heating process. This venting carries the harmful gases outside your home so they don’t enter the air you breathe.
The cost to add this venting for the first time ranges from $500 to $1,000+. Plus, if your home doesn’t already have natural gas lines, you’ll need to consider the cost to run these lines to your home, which could be an additional $1,500+.
The bottom line…
- If you don’t have access to natural gas already, stick with an electric furnace or heat pump. The cost to install gas lines and venting can be very expensive upfront, and the cost savings you’d get from a gas system may not pay for the higher installation cost.
- If you do have access to natural gas and you’re simply replacing an old gas furnace with a new gas furnace, we recommend sticking with a gas unit. Even though a gas unit is more expensive than an electric unit, gas is still a cheaper fuel source, which means you’ll likely save money in the long run.
Gas vs Electric Furnace: Safety
If installed correctly, both types of furnaces are completely safe.
That said, some homeowners prefer not to have a combustible fuel source (which is a potential safety hazard) in their homes, so they opt for an electric furnace.
If you want to go with a gas furnace and are worried about safety, speak with an experienced HVAC specialist. They can speak with you about your options and help you determine which fuel type would be best for your home.
Want a Furnace Recommendation from a San Antonio Pro?
Our team of trained comfort specialists can help you choose the perfect furnace for your home.
Learn more about what to expect when you hire us by visiting our furnace installation page.