Preparing for Summer

Some homeowners have begun switching from natural gas and propane furnaces to electric furnaces. This can be an eco-friendly switch in some cases, but it may or may not be the right move for you. If you will soon be due for a furnace replacement, here are some factors to consider before making the change to electric. 

How is your local electricity produced?

Switching from natural gas to an electric furnace makes sense if the electricity you use is obtained from a green source, such as wind or hydropower. However, if the electricity in your area is made by burning coal or natural gas, it makes less sense to change – at least from a sustainability standpoint. Either you can burn your own natural gas in your own furnace, or you'll be using electricity generated when someone else burns natural gas. 

If you have your own solar panels or windmill, then it makes even more sense to install an electric furnace. You can use your own, green energy generated at home instead of maintaining a natural gas connection.

Do you need your home to heat up quickly?

Electric furnaces have come a long way over the past few decades. However, they still don't heat up as quickly as a natural gas furnace. In most climates, this is not a big issue. But if you live in a really cold climate, you may want your furnace to heat your home as quickly as possible. A natural gas or propane furnace will likely heat the home up faster than an electric furnace.

Can your HVAC contractor run the electrical wires?

To install an electric furnace, you will need to have new electrical wires run to the furnace. You may also need to have a new breaker installed in your circuit box to accommodate this additional, large appliance. Ask your HVAC contractor if they have the ability to do this work. Many HVAC contractors can do basic electric work like this, but some can't – and they have to hire an outside electrician to do the work. If your HVAC contractor does not do their own wiring, this may raise the cost of an electric furnace in comparison to a natural gas one.

Some people make the change from a natural gas furnace to an electric one and really love it. However, this is a personal decision and one you need to make for your own household.

Reach out to a local HVAC contractor for more info on heating unit installation services.