Gas vs. Electric Furnaces: Which is Right for Your Home?

Alberta is the sunniest province in in Canada, but also one of the coldest. If you’re looking for the best heat source in Calgary and surrounding cities, Harmony Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. Compares electric and gas furnaces to heat your home. 

Rapid Heating  

Gas furnaces are known for their rapid heating. They can produce maximum heat almost immediately. This is particularly beneficial during Calgary's temperamental winters that can go from mild to bone-chilling within hours. Because electric furnaces rely on heating elements, they do not offer the same quick heat. 

High Efficiency  

In recent decades, both gas and electric furnaces have made significant strides in efficiency. Electric furnaces often operate at nearly 100% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE), but many of the top gas furnace models, including those from Lennox and Daikin are not far behind – they can reach up to 98.5% AFUE. The choice between the two may come down to utility costs. 

Low Maintenance   

Because of their combustion components, gas furnaces need more frequent maintenance than electric units. Gas furnaces also require more filter changes, repairs, and component cleaning. Regular checks for potential gas or carbon monoxide leaks are also important for safe heating. In contrast, the maintenance of an electric furnace is much simpler and minimal.  

Clean Energy  

Electric furnaces do not produce any emissions while they run, and there is the potential of using renewable energy sources such as solar energy to power them. For their part, modern gas furnaces offer great strides towards reducing emissions, and natural gas is among the cleanest of fuels. Nonetheless, gas furnaces still produce a variety of greenhouse gases as they heat your home.  

Calgary HVAC Experts Weigh in On Gas and Electric Furnaces 

If you are still unsure whether a gas furnace or an electric one is the right choice for your Calgary home, call the HVAC experts at Harmony Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. We can discuss your heating needs with you and present the best furnace options available to you. Then, whatever you decide, our skilled and experienced technicians will install your chosen furnace and offer you a home protection plan to keep things running smoothly and efficiently for many Calgary winter adventures to come.    

Call for a furnace consultation today. We will visit your home, evaluate your space and heating needs, and prepare an itemized and detailed quote for our top-notch furnace installation throughout the Calgary area.