Electric Heating vs. Gas Heating - Which Is Right For Your Home?

At a glance

• Electric heat pumps are up to three times more efficient than traditional gas heating systems.
• Depending on local energy prices and how efficient your system is, electric heating can be more cost-effective than gas.
• Heat pumps eliminate risks associated with gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning, making them safer for your home and better for your health. 

Before you can make a decision on which kind of HVAC system is right for your home, you need to spend some time understanding the pros and cons of electric vs. gas heating systems. This way, you can make an informed decision that will make the most sense for your home. Whether you're looking at electric vs. gas heat efficiency or weighing the cost of electric heating vs. gas heating, the shift towards energy-efficient electric systems like heat pumps offer lots of benefits. 

Gas Heating Benefits vs. Electric Heating Benefits: Which is Better?

If you’ve ever wondered, "Which is better: electric or gas heat?" or "What are the costs and benefits of electric heating vs. gas heating?”—this is the article for you. With the advancements in electric heating technologies, many homeowners are reconsidering traditional heating methods and exploring the potential of a heat pump for their home. Let’s dive into some of the most common myths about gas and electric heating to help you make an informed decision for your home.

Home Heating Systems Comparison — Is Gas Still Better? 

For decades, natural gas has been the go-to energy source for home heating in the U.S. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), nearly half of American households use natural gas for heating. However, with rising gas prices and advancements in electric heating technologies, heat pumps are becoming the better choice for more homeowners. 

Heat pumps offer several advantages. For one, they run on electricity and don’t produce carbon monoxide, which leads to improved indoor air quality and a safer source of heat for your home. Plus, many heat pumps are highly energy-efficient and can reduce your energy costs while reducing your carbon footprint.

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Debunking Common Myths About Gas vs. Electric Heat

Myth 1: Natural gas is more reliable
It's a common misconception that natural gas heating systems like furnaces are more reliable than electric ones, especially during power outages. However, gas appliances often require electricity to function, so if the power goes out, your gas heating may not work without a backup power source. Electric heat pumps are designed to work efficiently even in cold weather, providing consistent and reliable heating throughout the winter months.

Myth 2: Natural Gas Is Always Cheaper
While natural gas has historically been less expensive than electricity, this isn't always the case today. Especially with options like 3rd party energy and more homeowners installing solar panels, in many cases heating with electricity can be cheaper for many homeowners. The cost of electric heating vs. gas heating can vary depending on factors like local energy prices and the efficiency of your heating system. Electric heat pumps are way more efficient and can often lower your overall energy costs.

Myth 3: Electric Heating Is Inefficient
Old electric heating systems like baseboard heaters or space heaters were indeed inefficient. However, modern electric heat pumps are up to three times more efficient than traditional heating systems. This efficiency not only translates to lower energy bills but also contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly home heating solution.

Let Tetra help you upgrade your HVAC

Schedule your free, virtual estimate with one of the experts at Tetra today. We can help you decide between a heat pump or a furnace and so much more. We can even help you save up to $10k in rebates from government and local programs.