Gas vs. Electric Heating

When it comes to keeping your home warm, the choice between gas and electric heating can feel overwhelming. Each system has its own set of pros and cons, and the decision often depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Let's dive into the details to help you make an informed choice.

Heating Systems Explained

Types of Gas Heaters

Gas heating options include:

Flued heaters – These are permanent installations that require professional setup at the correct height to ensure all emitted gases are properly extracted. It’s like having a built-in fireplace that keeps your home warm and safe.

Non-flued heaters – Also called vent-free or flueless heaters, these can be used in a room as long as there’s adequate ventilation. They offer flexibility but come with certain safety considerations.

Installation

A gas heater or furnace requires ventilation to remove the emissions from burning gases. This typically involves installing air ducts and vents throughout the house, which can be a significant project requiring professional help. On the other hand, electric heaters are portable and don’t need extensive installation. Wall-mounted electric heaters might need some setup, but the process is simpler and often doesn’t require outside assistance.

Cost

Installing a gas heater tends to be more expensive than an electric heater because it involves setting up a centralized furnace with flue outlets. Electric heaters, by comparison, are more budget-friendly and straightforward to install.

Operating Cost

Gas heaters tend to generate more heat than electric ones, making them more efficient for larger spaces. Since gas is usually cheaper than electricity, gas heaters often have lower operational costs. Electric space heaters are most economical when used to heat smaller areas at lower temperature settings.

Safety Hazards

Infrared heaters heat objects directly and should be placed in areas where ignition won’t pose a risk. Most gas heaters need to be installed in well-ventilated areas, and they should always be turned off before going to sleep.

Pro tip: Heating systems can dry out the air, which might irritate conditions like dry skin or eczema. Using a humidifier can help maintain a comfortable humidity level in your home.

Popularity

The preference for gas versus electric heating largely depends on where you live. In many parts of the Northeast, gas heating dominates due to its efficiency in colder climates. In regions with milder winters, electric heating might be preferred as it requires less energy to maintain warmth.

Gas vs. Electric Heaters

If you’re considering investing in a personal heating system, radiant heaters are a strong contender. Gas heaters work more gradually but excel at providing sustained warmth over longer periods and across larger areas. Radiant heaters are ideal for personal or room use, as they deliver a focused beam of heat that warms people and objects quickly.

While both convection and radiant heating have their drawbacks, they tend to be more effective when used in personal space heaters rather than large-scale household systems. Convection furnaces and radiant heating panels cover big areas but come with a higher price tag. Space heaters consume less energy to heat smaller spaces, saving you money in the long run.

Suitability

Gas heating is better suited for larger households because it heats spaces faster than electric heaters. If a chimney or another outlet isn’t available for venting, electric heating may be your only option.