Gas and electricity are the two most popular energy sources for heating homes. While they can both be efficient forms of heating, they each have their pros and cons. Below are some of these pros and cons compared to help you decide whether to run your home’s heating on gas or electricity.
Gas
Pros
Low running costs
If you want to keep monthly energy bills as low as possible, then a gas heating system is probably the more economical option. If you live in a cooler region, you’re most likely to see the savings.
Quick heating
Gas heating systems usually produce heat very quickly. With an electric heating system, you may have to wait longer for your home to heat up.
Long-lasting
A lot of modern gas boilers and furnaces are built to last for 30 years. This means you won’t have to worry about investing in a new heating system any time soon.
Cons
High installation cost
Gas boilers and furnaces can be quite costly to install, which can sometimes cancel out any running cost savings. The installation cost of a new gas system is likely to be much cheaper if you already have a gas system in place.
Less safe
Gas systems come with more potential dangers. A gas leak could lead to a house fire or could put your family at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. That said, there are many measures you can take to detect leaks early or prevent them.
Less eco-friendly
Burning natural gas releases emissions that are harmful for the planet. While modern furnaces and boilers are more energy-efficient, they are still not as green as your average electric heat pump.
Electricity
Pros
More environmentally friendly
Electric heat pumps are better for the planet than gas heating systems. Not only do they release less greenhouse gas emissions, but can be run on electricity harvested from sustainable sources such as solar panels or home wind turbines.
Quiet operation
Compared to gas systems, electric heating systems are relatively quiet. This is particularly the case with newer heating systems.
Additional cooling
Electric heating systems can also double up as cooling systems. Technically, gas can be used to power air conditioning systems, but that involves installing an additional electric cooling system. It’s cheaper to install a heating/cooling system that runs entirely on electricity.
Cons
Power-dependency
During a power cut, you won’t be able to operate an electric heating system, unless you have a backup generator or solar panels. This is something to consider in areas that get a lot of power outages.
Less efficient in extreme cold
Electric heating systems may not work very well in very cold temperatures. This is when you want the power of a gas heating system.
Higher running costs
You may find that your energy bills are higher with an electric heating system. The exception may be if you live in a warmer climate where you rarely need to use heating. Just consider the fact that electric systems are cheaper to install and maintain.
Conclusion
Gas heating is a generally better option for those that live in cooler climates, those that want to save money on their energy bills and those that want fast heating.
Electric heating may be better for those who live in warmer climates, those who want to save money on installation and those who want to make their home greener.
