Electric heaters convert nearly 100% of their energy into heat and cost less to buy, while gas heaters run cheaper per unit of heat and warm large spaces faster. For most Central Valley homes, where winters are mild and cooling matters more than heating, an efficient electric system or heat pump is often the practical, lower-maintenance choice.
The right answer still depends on your home’s size, whether you already have a natural gas line, and how you weigh upfront price against long-term running costs. The comparison below breaks down cost, efficiency, installation, maintenance, lifespan, and environmental impact so you can match the heating system to your budget and your home.
What is the Difference Between Electric and Gas Heaters?
There are several differences between how gas and electrical heaters operate. Gas heaters use a furnace to burn fuel (usually natural gas or propane) and heat the air directly. A blower then pushes that warm air through a network of ducts and vents to heat each room. It is important to remember that these systems are hooked up to a gas line which provide the fuel that is burned off. While these systems are generally safe, they still can cause gas leaks as well as produce harmful byproducts of combustion like carbon monoxide.
Electric heaters once used separate heating appliances in each room that would radiate heat to warm a room. Historically, these systems were not centralized but electric heating technology has improved so much that central electric heaters are gaining traction and are much more available and popular than they once were. These systems use coils made of materials that heat as electricity is passed through them to warm a room or a home.
Pros and Cons of Electric Heating
Advantages of Electric Heaters
- Several available options including heat pumps, central storage heaters, and even smaller room heaters
- Does not release dangerous gasses as a byproduct of combustion
- Minimal maintenance, upkeep, and cleaning
- Newer central electric heating systems come with smart controls and are highly efficient
- Smaller individual room heaters can be transported and easily used where needed
- Electric heaters are easier to install than a central gas furnace
- No background noises
- More ecofriendly
- Much safer without combustible fuel sources
- No gas line or venting required to operate
- Longer lifespan
Disadvantages of Electric Heaters
- Higher costs for heating
- Slower time to warm up a large area
- Older units are not rated as high efficiency
- Older storage heater models can contain asbestos
Pros and Cons of Gas Heating
Advantages of Gas Heaters
- Cheaper costs for heating
- Easier to maintain a constant temperature
- Heat large areas
- Can warm the entire house relatively quickly due to central heating
Disadvantages of Gas Heaters
- Produces byproducts like carbon monoxide from burning fuels that need to be ventilated safely
- Burning fossil fuels contributes to global warming and climate change
- Potential for future ban on gas burning appliances in certain markets
- Need regular checkups and maintenance
- High costs for installation and repair
- Potential fire hazard if there is a gas leak
- Shorter lifespan due to wear and tear on the burner, heat exchanger, and blower
- Requires a gas line and proper venting to operate safely
- Audible noises from the burner igniting and the blower pushing air through the ducts
- Some heat is lost through the ducts as warm air travels from the furnace to each room
Electric vs Gas Heater Costs
Determining which heating system costs more when used is up for debate. The input cost of a gas unit vs an electric unit to heat the same space is much more in favor of gas heaters. Generally, natural gas (billed by the therm) costs significantly less per unit of heat than the electricity (billed by the kilowatt hour, or kWh) used by an electric heater. That being said, gas heaters are generally much less efficient and lose some energy through the furnace and the ductwork as heated air travels to each room. Additional efficiencies can be introduced into electric heaters by using smart systems that help prevent the use of heat during peak hours when electricity is most expensive.
In addition to the cost of heat, the cost of the unit itself is much cheaper if you go with an electric heater. New electric heaters can cost anywhere between $1000 – $2500 when gas heaters can cost upwards of $4500. This is just for the unit itself and does not cover installation which is also more expensive if you go with a gas heater.
Electric vs Gas Heater Efficiency
Modern electric heaters are typically 100% efficient which means that every kWh used is turned into heat, where a gas heater generally falls between 55 – 97% efficient. The energy efficiency of a gas burning furnace really depends on how much of the fuel is turned into heat. While this seems like a clear-cut win for electric models, gas heaters do have an edge in the speed in which it can warm a home. Since gas heaters are central, they can warm a large space much quicker which can result in lower overall usage.
Electric vs Gas Installation
The installation process for electric heaters and gas heaters is a clear-cut win for electric heaters. This is because a gas furnace needs a gas supply line, proper venting for combustion byproducts, and ductwork to distribute the heated air. This means that installing a gas system is a more intensive job that often requires HVAC and contractor services. The time in which it takes to install a new gas heater without the existing gas heater infrastructure can be several days. This is because contractors must get into the floor and walls to create the necessary support to help your gas heater operate properly. On the flip side, electric heaters can be introduced with minimally invasive construction, if any at all. That’s not to say that it doesn’t come with its own headaches, but minor electrical connectivity issues rarely require a contractor to demo walls or floors the way installing a gas furnace does. It is recommended that both installs are done professionally but the main difference is that electrical heaters can usually be installed in a few hours rather than a few days.
Electric vs Gas Heater Maintenance
Maintenance for electrical heaters vs gas heaters is also a win for electrical heaters. Modern electrical heaters generally require zero maintenance unless something is broken. That’s not to say, on going check ups are not recommended, but it is much less likely that maintenance will be needed for electrical heaters. Gas heaters, on the other hand, will break down with wear and tear due to how they operate mechanically. There are a lot of mechanical components that need to operate properly with a gas furnace. These components are all prone to wear and tear and will eventually break down and need to be replaced or repaired. In addition to standard wear and tear of mechanical components, a gas furnace can develop issues like a cracked heat exchanger, a dirty burner, or a clogged filter that restricts airflow.
Electric vs Gas Heater Lifespan
Generally electric heaters are known to last considerably longer than gas heaters, for the same reasons gas heaters need much more maintenance. The components of a gas heater are much more likely to break down and need servicing. Over time, the cost of repairs may exceed the cost of a new unit, which results in needing a new gas heater. The average lifespan of a gas heater tops out at 20 years while an electric heater can last up to 30 years.
Electric vs Gas Environmental Impacts
Gas heaters rely on burning fossil fuels which is why they are typically a home’s biggest source of CO2. Because that heat comes from combustion, a gas system adds carbon emissions every time it runs. That doesn’t mean that electrical heaters don’t create carbon at the power plant but as our economy shifts over to sustainable energy, electrical heaters will contribute much less of an environmental impact. The other thing that should be considered when planning is that there is a strong possibility that gas appliances will be discouraged or eliminated altogether.
Is Electric or Gas Better?
The above characteristics generally lean towards electric heaters being the superior system but determining which heating system is better for your household can be complicated because each household has its own individual needs.
Generally, gas heaters are recommended if your home is large, has access to natural gas, and is in a colder climate. The initial costs of these systems will be offset by the lower cost of heat. On the other hand, electric systems are recommended if your home is smaller and is in more mild climates.
Making the Switch to Electric
Whatever system you choose, the licensed HVAC professionals at Greener Solutions Heating & AC can help you weigh your options and size the right unit for your home. We have served Stockton and the Central Valley for over 35 years and offer a wide range of heating systems to fit your needs and budget. Call (209) 946-5796 today to schedule your consultation.