Need to schedule maintenance or repairs for your gas or electric furnace? Are you wondering, “Is my furnace gas or electric?” Topline Heating & Air services both kinds and can help you keep your home warm. Call (717) 628-6825 now to schedule your service.
You rely on your home’s furnace to keep you warm and comfortable during the winter. If you live in a warmer climate, you may only use your furnace a few months out of the year. Don’t wait until you need it to find out that it needs repairs. Furnace maintenance is an important step in preparing for winter, regardless of where you live.
The first step to maintaining your furnace is identifying the type of furnace your home has. If you’re unsure how to tell, keep reading. The furnace experts in Columbia will tell you what to look for to identify your furnace.
What Does a Furnace Do?
A furnace is a device that heats your home and keeps it at a comfortable temperature during the winter. It works by heating and distributing warmed air throughout your home using blowers.
Your furnace needs a fuel source to heat the air, though. Depending on the model, your furnace will use either gas or electricity as fuel.
How Can I Tell What Kind of Furnace I Have?
Gas furnaces use an incoming source of gas as fuel to produce heat; electric furnaces use electricity to heat metal coils, which produce heat and require a higher voltage of power than gas furnaces.
If you’re wondering, “Is my furnace gas or electric?” you should:
- Check your bills. If you receive a gas bill for your property, you most likely have a gas furnace.
- Look for a gas line. If you notice a copper line that runs from outside of your home to where your furnace is, it might be a gas line. You might also notice a gas line running through your basement if you have one.
- Look for a gas meter. If you have a gas furnace, there will be a gas meter on the outside of your home. This meter tracks the usage of gas.
- Look for a propane tank. Some rural properties may have a large propane tank on site that requires refilling.
- Check inside your furnace. Many furnaces have a front panel that you can remove. Check inside your furnace for a gas line or blue flame to verify the type of furnace you have. If the furnace is electric, then inside, you will find wiring or sensors instead of a gas line.
- Check your breaker box. Your electrical panel may help you identify your furnace. First, locate the breaker(s) for your furnace. Check the amperage. A gas furnace only requires one 15 or 20-amp breaker, while electric furnaces require two 20-amp breakers.
- Listen to the furnace. Both kinds of furnaces generate noise, with gas furnaces being louder. An electric furnace emits a low buzzing noise when the coils inside heat up. A gas furnace will produce a range of sounds from humming to a louder “whoosh” when the burners ignite and the blower kicks on.
What Are the Differences Between Gas and Electric Furnaces?
Both types of furnaces have their pros and cons and are better suited for certain environments. If you’re looking to upgrade or replace your furnace, a professional can help you decide what’s best for you.
Electric Furnaces
Electric furnaces are cheaper than gas furnaces because they use fewer external parts. This also makes them easier to install. This is because they do not require an external line to operate.
Without the additional gas line, electric furnaces are generally easier to maintain. They are also safer since there is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning with electric heat.
It is worth noting that electric furnaces are cheaper to install but less efficient than gas. That means your fuel costs will be higher with an electric furnace.
Gas Furnaces
If you use your heater frequently, a gas furnace is better suited for your needs. They have a higher heat efficiency than electric furnaces and heat your home faster. Because of their efficiency and low heat time, you’ll also have reduced heating costs.
For those that live in colder climates, gas heaters offer a reliable source of heat. This is because they are not affected by outside weather or adverse conditions.
It is worth noting that natural gas furnaces have safety and noise concerns. Since they use gas as a fuel source, it’s possible that leaks can occur if pipes become damaged. The gas these devices use can be deadly if inhaled in large amounts. Even when they function properly, the exhaust fans are extremely noisy.
Maintaining Your Furnace
Regardless of the type of furnace you have, it’s best to schedule routine maintenance. This is especially true with gas furnaces, as a professional can identify leaks or damage before it’s too late. Without proper maintenance, your gas furnace will have a shorter lifespan.
As gas burns, it leaves residue inside the furnace and gas lines. Over time, this residue can build up and lead to damage unless it’s cleaned routinely. A professional can also check your vents and fans to ensure they’re working properly.
The Lifespan of Your Furnace
Depending on the type of furnace you have, its lifespan will vary. Electric furnaces have the ability to last up to 20 years. With proper maintenance, gas furnaces last up to 10 years. If you’re installing a new furnace and don’t plan to use it frequently, an electric furnace is a smart investment.
Schedule Maintenance for Your Furnace
The first step to keeping your home warm is properly maintaining your furnace. You can count on Topline Heating & Air to ensure your furnace is working its best. We provide furnace maintenance for gas and electric furnaces and have 24/7 customer service. Call (717) 628-6825 now to schedule your service. Still wondering, “Is my furnace gas or electric?” Let us take a look!