Many homeowners feel having either a gas or electric HVAC system doesn’t matter as long as they receive thermal comfort along with high-quality indoor air and sufficient ventilation. However, safety is one of the important factors when it comes to knowing if you currently have an electric or gas system. Continue reading as the pros from Forever Builders, one of the top remodeling companies San Diego homeowners trust for exceptional HVAC services at affordable rates, explore some of the differences between the two and offer tips you can use to determine which type of furnace you currently have.
Check the Fuel Source
When creating heat, an electric furnace will utilize electricity, but a gas system connects to a gas supply line to generate heat. If you have a gas HVAC, you can typically find gas pipes and meters nearby. In contrast, electric systems don’t require any type of gas supply. Therefore, they’ll need to be connected to homes’ electrical systems.
If you notice the faint smell of natural gas being expelled by the exhaust, this is a normal occurrence if you have a gas furnace. An electric HVAC doesn’t produce any gas or other byproducts. It’s important to know the difference so you can determine what can be safely stored around the unit and which parts are necessary for maintenance.
Look for a Flame
As you go near a gas system, there should be a window of some type to look through. When doing so, you can typically see a blue flame inside. In contrast, an electric HVAC system doesn’t need windows or flames, which is one reason many people prefer this type of furnace. If you notice any type of flame coming from your electric system, call for emergency assistance immediately, preferably from your local fire department.
Get an HVAC Inspection
To ensure your system remains safe and efficient, a yearly HVAC inspection is recommended, whether you have a gas or electric furnace. Therefore, during the next inspection, you can simply ask the inspector to clarify which type of unit you have. The inspector can also tell you the unit type, model, and what having that system does for you and your home.
Ask if your HVAC needs to be updated and replaced. If so, an electric system would be the best choice.
Benefits of an Electric System
If you currently have a gas HVAC system, switching to electric can come with many benefits, such as cost savings, improved air quality, longer life span, better efficiency, less noise, and increased comfort inside the house, especially when sleeping during the night or taking naps throughout the day. Your home value can also increase because of switching from a gas system to an electric HVAC, whether you want to sell the property in a few years or are looking to increase long-term value. An electric HVAC system can control the spread of viruses, bacteria, and other airborne pathogens while regulating the moisture inside the home and conserving energy.
Whether you’re looking to install a new HVAC system or upgrade your existing one, call on the pros from Forever Builders. We’re the experts you can trust to provide an affordable range of HVAC services designed to ensure your home remains a haven of comfort and energy efficiency. To find out more about our outstanding services, from full home remodeling to high-quality HVAC installation, give one of our friendly team members a call today.