Are you considering a HVAC system for your home, but uncertain what type to buy? Even if you've done a bit of research, it can be difficult to know whether a gas or electric HVAC system is right for your home. In this blog post, we'll explain the basic differences between these two types of units. Whether you're looking for an economical option or are planning with energy efficiency in mind, follow along as we explore all aspects of gas and electric HVAC units.
What Are HVAC Units?
HVAC is an acronym that stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning--a necessary component of modern homes to maintain a comfortable living space. It typically includes systems such as heat pumps, air conditioners, furnaces, ductwork, thermostats, and other home comfort controls. Both furnaces and AC units can use gas or electricity as their source of power. This gives homeowners options to find the right type of HVAC unit for cost savings and comfort.
Gas HVAC Units
Gas furnaces work in a heating cycle. A pipe to your home from outside connects the source of gas to the furnace. The source to your furnace is either an outdoor storage tank (LPG) or an underground connection to a natural gas pipe network.
Gas AC units utilize evaporator coils and condenser coils to move hot air out and cool air through your ductwork.
Ways to determine if your HVAC unit uses gas include:
- A small window at the front of your furnace has a flame behind it.
- Your furnace makes a “wooshing” sound while operating.
- Your home has an exhaust flue. It is located on your roof and is chimney-like with a rain cap on top.
- Check your furnace or AC label, it may tell you directly or give you the model to look up.
Electric HVAC Units
An electric furnace functions similarly to a gas furnace. However, instead of a gas burner inside of it, there are electric heating elements inside. These elements are heating coils and a blower motor.
Electric AC units absorb and transfer out heat from your home using a cooling agent. The cooling agent or refrigerant is inside the coils of the AC. The blower fan inside the AC then blows back our chilled air into the home.
Ways to determine if your HVAC unit uses electricity include:
- The furnace has no small window and flame.
- The label may note whether the furnace or AC is electric or not.
- There is no gas line. Instead, there may be heavy gauge wiring covered by flexible metal.
Is an Electric HVAC Unit Better Than a Gas One?
Deciding between an electric or gas HVAC unit is important as it is an investment in your home. While both types of units have their pros and cons, you may find one suits your needs better.
Electric HVAC pros:
- Electric furnaces are generally less expensive than gas furnaces.
- Electric furnaces last 20-30 years.
- Electric furnaces are easy to care for.
- Electric air conditioners are generally less expensive to install compared to natural gas units.
- Electric air conditioners last 15-20 years.
- Electric HVAC units are better for the environment.
Electric HVAC cons:
- Electric HVAC units will not operate during power outages.
- Electric air conditioners tend to require frequent repairs.
- Electric heat takes longer to heat your home.
- In most parts of the country, electric heat is more expensive.
- Electric furnaces can dry the air in your home.
Gas HVAC pros:
- Gas powered systems are more powerful.
- Gas HVAC systems are not as vulnerable to power outages.
- Gas air conditioners tend to not need many repairs.
- Gas units are versatile and pairs well with other systems.
- Gas heaters will warm your home faster.
Gas HVAC cons:
- Gas heating can lead to allergies and other health issues.
- Gas heaters have the potential to become fire hazards.
- Gas furnaces need special venting system to release gases outside.
- Gas-powered air conditioning could emit carbon monoxide if leaking.
- Gas-powered air conditioning costs more to run.
- Gas-powered air conditioning operates with noise.
Consulting with a technician can help you determine which unit it best for you depending on where you live in the country and your family’s needs.
The CLEANair Furnace Rebate Program
In an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the state of California is embracing electrification. This shift towards electrification is part of an ongoing effort to meet California's goal of achieving net zero carbon pollution by 2045. This includes reducing statewide greenhouse gas emissions by 40% from 1990 levels by 2030. These initiatives are important steps towards improving air quality, conserving energy resources, and protecting the planet from the damaging effects of climate change. With this program in place, it is easier than ever for California residents to contribute to building a cleaner environment for generations to come.
To help move this process along, the CLEANair Furnace Rebate Program is offering single-family residences, multi-family properties, or small commercial buildings within an eligible zip code to receive up to $1500 in rebates when they replace their gas furnace with an electric heat pump.
Get Tax Credits When You Switch to an Electric HVAC Unit
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 provides tax credits for consumers and businesses that will help them save money on energy when they switch to electric HVAC units. The act includes a number of credits and deductions that are designed to incentivize people to make the switch from traditional HVAC systems to electric ones.
When homeowners make a switch to a qualifying HVAC unit, they can receive up to 30% of the cost in tax credits. Not only can you make a switch to an energy efficient HVAC unit but you can also save while doing so.
Overall, the IRA is a comprehensive plan that seeks to reduce inflation while encouraging people and businesses to switch to more efficient and environmentally friendly electric HVAC systems.
At Reliable Home Comfort, we are dedicated to helping our community achieve comfort and satisfaction. With our licensed and certified employees, we guarantee Member satisfaction for your every HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance need.
Have questions about HVAC systems or rebates? Call us today at (562) 543-5987 or contact us online.
