Homeowners have many choices to make when setting up a new or previously owned property in regard to money-saving options. Choosing gas or electric appliances for heating, cooling, and cooking appliances is a major decision. In addition to cost factors, there are also appliance functional considerations to make. Some appliances simply need electricity to work as gas power isn’t an option.
There are also safety concerns to keep in mind when choosing between gas and electric. Gas leaks can be a health risk. There are, however, many warning systems you can install to keep your family safe. At the same time, electrical appliances come with a shock risk, especially for children.
One easy means of making the decision is whether or not your home has a natural gas line leading to it. If not, without the cost and time of installing that natural gas line, gas isn’t an option for your home.
For those who have the option, here are three ideas to consider to help with your decision.
It is important to note that the installation and maintenance of gas appliances require professional work. Even a minor gas leak in the home can cause significant danger.
Appliances That Run off Electric
There are obviously some appliances that without a complex system will run best off of electricity. Some homes can be set up to run completely free of gas, but generally, there is a combination of gas and electricity available. Toasters, microwaves, lights (with some outdoor exceptions), and washers and dryers tend to use electricity as a primary power source.
Not many years ago, gas dryers were an efficient means of powering dryers. But technology in dryer production has made electric power a mostly more cost-effective and time-efficient means of drying clothes over gas-powered machines.
Energy Savings With Gas Appliances
Gas ovens, while primarily powered by gas, still require an electrical outlet. Electricity is required for the ignitors that light the pilots, keeps the clock working, and even the temperature settings require electricity to operate. The stove and oven portions themselves are heated by gas, which overall is more economically and environmentally savvy. Some cooks argue that gas pilot lights are easier to control the cooking temperature over electric ranges.
Heating and air conditioning units also run off a mix of the two sources of power. Upfront, the cost of installing a gas heating unit can be more than an electric unit. Over the years, however, the cost of running gas is less than the cost of running electricity. It is important to have regular maintenance performed on the heating and cooling units.
A third major appliance that can use a gas pilot light is the water heater tank. Once you set your water heater to a comfortable and safe temperature, a pilot light (lit with an electrical power source) lights and then uses gas to keep the water at a constant warm temperature. As with any appliance that runs with a pilot light, they can be extinguished and require relighting when placed near heavy breezes or winds.
Some homeowners enjoy the glow of gas lighting on their porches and in various spots throughout the yard. Gas lighting is generally not recommended for indoor use.
As gas leaks can cause major health and other dangerous conditions, homeowners can rest assured when a professional installer takes care of the work. It is also an option to keep a carbon monoxide detector in the home to warn if an increase in gas levels escapes into the home.
Do Electric Appliances Save More Money Than Gas?
While not all appliances can easily run off gas, those that can tend to save money overall. Temperatures (especially when cooking) are easier to regulate as well. The upfront costs of installing gas-powered appliances can be higher upfront than electric. But, over time and usage, gas-powered appliances do have a cost and environmental advantage over electric.
When you’re ready to set up your new home or switch out appliances, the technicians at JC Energy Solutions are ready to help. We also specialize in replacing old units, and helping homeowners set up regular maintenance leading to worry-free heating and cooling units. Once you’ve made your decision on gas or electric, let us know. Or call and have our knowledgeable team help you make a decision based on your needs, availability, and budget concerns.
Contact JC Energy Solutions in the Oak Hills, CA, area to discuss your options today.
