When it comes to keeping your home warm through Oregon or Washington winters, the furnace you choose matters. At Apex Air, we help homeowners across the region find reliable, cost-effective heating solutions that match their home, budget and lifestyle.
Whether you’re installing a new system or replacing an older unit, one big question stands out: Which is better, a gas or electric furnace?
Each option has unique benefits and drawbacks, from installation costs to long-term maintenance and energy efficiency. In this guide, we’ll break it all down so you can make the best choice for your home.
How Gas and Electric Furnaces Work
- Gas furnaces heat your home by burning natural gas in a combustion chamber. The heat is transferred through a heat exchanger and circulated via ductwork.
- Electric furnaces use heating coils powered by electricity to warm air, which is then pushed through your home using a blower fan.
Though the end result is similar, the process and performance vary in important ways.
Pros and Cons of Gas Furnaces
✅ Pros
- Lower operating costs in most areas, especially where natural gas is cheaper than electricity
- Faster heating performance, ideal for colder climates
- Clean-burning fuel that still supports a lower environmental footprint compared to older oil systems
- Widespread availability of natural gas and multiple supplier options
❌ Cons
- Emits carbon monoxide, requiring proper ventilation and CO detectors
- Higher upfront installation cost, particularly if you don’t already have a gas line
- Shorter lifespan (typically 10–15 years)
- Bulky ductwork may require space or layout adjustments in your home
Pros and Cons of Electric Furnaces
✅ Pros
- Lower upfront cost, making it easier to budget for new installation
- Longer lifespan, often lasting 20–30 years
- Simple operation and maintenance, with fewer mechanical components
- No emissions, making them ideal for households prioritizing indoor air quality or reducing their carbon footprint
❌ Cons
- Higher operating costs if electricity rates are high in your area
- Slower heating, which may be noticeable in very cold conditions
- Dry indoor air, which can aggravate allergies or skin issues
- Heat loss during power outages, unless you have a backup power source
Gas vs. Electric Furnace: Installation Costs and Energy Savings Compared
Gas furnaces may cost more to install, especially if your home doesn’t already have gas service. However, they often make up for it with lower monthly energy bills. Electric furnaces, on the other hand, tend to have a higher ongoing cost due to the price of electricity, though this varies based on your location and utility provider.
If your goal is long-term savings, compare both the initial installation cost and estimated annual operating expenses over 10–15 years.
Safety and Reliability: Which Is Better for Your Home?
Electric furnaces are considered safer overall because they don’t use combustion. There’s no carbon monoxide risk or concern about gas leaks.
Gas furnaces are safe when properly installed and maintained but do require more oversight. If you go with gas, make sure to have annual inspections and always use a working carbon monoxide detector.
Which Is Greener?
Electric furnaces generate zero emissions at the point of use. However, their overall environmental impact depends on how your electricity is sourced. In Washington, many utilities use clean hydropower, making electric heating a strong choice for eco-conscious households.
Gas furnaces emit a small amount of carbon dioxide even when operating efficiently. That said, they can be a good fit in areas where natural gas is a cleaner alternative to coal-based electricity.
Gas vs. Electric Furnace: How To Choose the Right Option for Your Home
Here’s a quick summary:
- Go electric if you want lower upfront costs, cleaner indoor air, or live in an area with reliable electricity and mild winters.
- Go gas if you need fast heating, want lower utility bills, or live in a colder region with easy access to natural gas.
- Consider a hybrid system if you want the efficiency of electric with the heating power of gas during extreme cold.
Choosing between a gas and electric furnace isn’t always black and white. It depends on your climate, budget, energy preferences and existing home setup. By weighing the pros and cons, you’ll be better prepared to make a smart, long-term investment in your comfort.
Need help deciding between a gas or electric furnace?
The experts at Apex Air are here to help you choose the right system for your home, budget and lifestyle.