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Is Gas Heating Cheap?
It’s yet again that time of the year, a time characterised by sweater weather and cool mornings. A time to put away your air conditioner and prepare to turn on your heater. However, you may need to reevaluate your heating needs and might be wondering whether gas heaters are cheaper than electric heaters.
Planning to turn on your heater for the time can be complicated. It goes beyond deciding the perfect temperature, even though that is another complication. Sometimes, a temperature that may seem comfortable in the morning may become rather uncomfortable at night.
Similarly, deciding on the perfect heating system for heating your home can be challenging because there are different heating solutions to consider. However, we’ve made things a lot easier for you by providing you with this guide to help you decide which is best for you and which is cheaper.
Basically, there are two types of fuel to choose from when it comes to powering your home – gas and electricity. Explicitly speaking, both options have their individual pros and cons, but people are usually interested in the cheaper option. Unfortunately, it’s not easy to select one as the more affordable option because of different factors. Read on to find out more.
Electricity Vs. Gas
There are two different forms of gas that a household can purchase. The liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which is usually placed in large tanks and often requires refilling, and natural gas drawn from gas networks.
Natural gas is the commonly used option in Australia, particularly in Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria. Gas, in general, can be affordable and effective, but when it comes to utility and versatility, it may have a few limitations. For example, gas is better suited for cooking, drying clothes, space heating, and water heating.
On the other hand, electricity can be applied differently, including those mentioned above. Even though not every home has a gas connection, almost every home has an electricity connection. The big question then is whether you should rely solely on electricity or use both gas and electricity.
Electricity Running Costs
Electricity consumption is usually charged per kilowatt-hour (kWh), and you are required to pay distributors to transport electricity to your home. This is generally referred to as a daily supply charge. However, the rates vary depending on the distribution network and your state.
The general electricity rates for each state include the following:
- South Australia: 32c/kWh
- Tasmania: 25c/kWh
- New South Wales: 23c/kWh
- Western Australia: 29c/kWh
- Victoria: 20c/kWh
- Queensland: 20c/kWh
It is worth mentioning that these rates are based on a single-rate tariff. The rates may be different for people with block tariffs or time-of-use. In general, your tariff type and location are the main factors that determine supply charges, and you’ll need to pay this, irrespective of the amount of power you use.
Natural Gas Running Costs
Customers are usually charged per megajoule (MJ) of natural gas used. Like electricity charges, this is also in addition to your daily supply charge, which is fixed. The daily supply charge is usually between 60 and 90 cents per day, depending on the distribution network and your state.
The rates for each state include the following:
- South Australia: 4c/MJ
- Tasmania: 3.5c/MJ
- New South Wales: 4c/MJ
- Western Australia: 15c/MJ
- Victoria: 2.5c/MJ
- Queensland: 5c/MJ
From this, you can tell that natural gas costs only a few cents per megajoule, but this rate only applies to people with a single rate tariff. The rates will be slightly different if you’re on an additional tariff.
Electricity vs. Gas Cost Comparison
From the above, you might want to conclude that gas is the cheaper option, but that may not be the case. Even though a kilowatt-hour of electricity is not as cheap as a megajoule of gas, one thing to note is that kWh is generally more energy-efficient than MJ.
For example, an electric heater may use only 2.3kWh of electricity, while a gas heater may use up to 12MJ every hour. For someone living in Victoria with an electricity cost of 20c/kWh and a gas cost of 2.5c/MJ, the person’s electricity usage will cost 46c per hour, while the gas cost will be 30c per house. Even though the difference may seem negligible, you can save more when you use gas than when you use electricity.
Gas running costs are generally cheaper than electricity, but it is important to note that this is only based on assumptions and may not be the situation all the time.
Gas Heaters Vs. Electric Heaters
As a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your home has all the necessary appliances to ensure that everyone is comfortable. You’ll need to be heated during the cold season, and to do this; you need a heater.
When buying a heater, you’ll always come across two different types: gas heating systems and electric heating systems. Even though both kinds of heating systems give similar results, it is worth noting that they are entirely different from each other. The main difference is that gas heating systems use pilot light combinations whenever the thermostat is triggered, while electric heating systems operate with electric ignition systems.
As mentioned above, gas heaters are generally cheaper than electric heaters. However, other things can influence your decision and let you know which is the best and cheapest house heating option. They include the following:
Installation Process
Even though it is possible to do the installation yourself, it is worth noting that the installation process of heaters is generally complicated when compared to other home appliances. This is the main reason why it is typically advisable to contract the installation to a trained professional.
Suppose you’ve decided to settle for a gas heater. In that case, you need to understand that the critical part of the installation process involves dealing with a combustive element, which is natural gas. You’ll need to ensure that components like the heat exchanger are appropriately sealed so that carbon monoxide does not leak into your home.
Installing gas usually requires special tools and equipment because of the associated intricacies. Sometimes, the gas installation process may take a couple of days to complete. Another thing to consider is that in some cases, you might need to break through your walls to install vents for the gas heater, and this can further make the installation process tedious.
The installation process for electric heaters can also be complicated. In this case, the point of concern is controlling high voltage. You’ll also need to do some wiring from the heater to your breaker box. You can do the installation yourself, but you’ll require different tools and materials to do this properly. Some of the tools you’ll need include a drywall saw, circular saw, pliers, and extension cord.
Costs
As mentioned earlier, gas is generally cheaper than electricity. However, electric heaters become considerably cheaper than gas heaters when the upfront cost is factored in. Electric heaters usually cost about $1,000 to $2,500 while gas heaters cost between $3,000 and $4,500. The installation is also generally cheaper for electric heaters than gas heaters. Installing electric heaters costs around $1,000 to $1,500 depending on the type of heater while installing a gas heater costs around $1,500 to $2,000.
With that said, the overall cost of installation and purchase for electric heaters is between $2,000 and $4,000, while that which is required for gas heaters is around $4,500 to $6,500. However, the most critical factor to consider is the operational cost, not installation and purchase. The cost of operating a gas heater is generally cheaper than the cost of running an electric heater.
The operational cost is higher for electric heaters because electricity is generally more expensive than natural gas. Although the cost of natural gas is projected to go higher within the next couple of years, it will remain cheaper than electricity.
Lifespan
One vital thing to consider before making your decision is the heater’s lifespan. In general, electric heaters last longer than gas heaters. The lifespan of gas heaters is about 10 to 20 years, while electric heaters is around 20 to 30 years.
Another thing to note is that gas heaters generally require regular maintenance to avoid the accumulation of small particles in the burner. This can cause the production of air pollutants, which can result in carbon monoxide poisoning. Another point of concern with gas heaters is corrosion, which can shorten a gas heater’s lifespan if it’s not well-handled.
Electric heaters also require maintenance, but the requirements are generally fewer, unlike gas heaters. This is why they typically last longer than gas heaters.
Maintenance
As stated earlier, the requirements for maintaining electric heaters are not as much as those for maintaining gas heaters. This is because electric heaters lack a gas burner and won’t be needing regular maintenance. Also, the reduced maintenance requirement for electric heaters implies that they are not as expensive to maintain as gas heaters.
For a heater to remain efficient and safe, you’ll need to maintain it regularly. You can schedule routine maintenance with a trained professional. This will ensure that the heater is inspected and cleaned, and with this, you can be sure that the expert will identify faults easily. The professional will also help you ensure that the heater is functioning correctly.
Maintenance is particularly important for gas heaters because a poorly functioning gas heater will produce carbon monoxide, which can be harmful to your health. Getting a smoke detector is necessary for people who use gas appliances a lot.
If you’re considering noise as a factor when buying a heater, an electric heater would be a better option for you. Electric heaters are generally quieter than gas heaters, and this is because they do not have a burner or a vent. Gas heaters are noisy as they have many moving parts.
Energy and Heat Efficiency
The efficiency of the heater you get is also a factor you might want to consider. This is an important factor for people who plan to protect their immediate environment. It is important to note that both systems can be efficient, but electric heaters are generally more heat and energy-efficient than gas heaters.
A heater’s energy efficiency also depends on the amount of energy that the heater can convert to heat. Gas heaters don’t always do this effectively, even though they generally heat faster than electric heaters. If you want an efficient gas heater, you might want to ensure that it comes with a hot surface, intermittent ignition, or direct spark.
Environmental Concerns
Energy efficiency is a vital factor for many reasons, and one of these relates to our environment. When a gas heater is energy efficient, it will produce lesser toxic gases like carbon monoxide.
Another area to consider, especially if you choose to use natural gas or a gas heater, is the fact that gas pipelines can damage or leak, thereby leaving toxic gas that can damage the environment.
It is important to note that electric and gas infrastructure both harm the environment. For example, electricity is sometimes generated from fossil fuels like nuclear, petroleum, natural gas, and coal. Most of these fossils are pollutants on their own, and they can be toxic to our environment.
You might want to consider your environment when deciding whether a gas heater or an electric heater will be a better option for you. It is important to know where your electricity is coming from. In general, natural gas has a lower impact on the environment, unlike electricity that is produced from different fossil fuels.
Comfort and Safety
Whether you are getting a cheaper option or not, safety should be part of your main concerns. As mentioned earlier, gas heaters can produce more heat and heat faster than electric heaters. Also, gas heaters can heat at higher temperatures, which is essential for colder climates and in bigger homes. Electric heaters are usually better suited for hot and dry climates.
When a gas system doesn’t function properly, it can lead to carbon monoxide production, thereby causing safety hazards. This is why some people are not comfortable with using gas, especially without a carbon monoxide alarm.
Pros And Cons Of Electric Vs. Gas Heating
Here are some typical advantages and disadvantages of electric vs. gas heaters.
Pros of Electric Heating
- Electric heaters are generally safe
- They have a longer lifespan and can last up to 30 years without replacement
- The upfront cost of electric heaters is generally lower
- Installation and maintenance cost is also lower
Cons of Electric Heating
- Electric heaters don’t heat at a fast rate
- They are sometimes bad for the environment
- The cost of running electric heaters is generally high
Pros of Gas Heating
- Gas heaters can heat homes faster
- They can operate with less energy, unlike electric heaters
- Gas heating is generally cheaper than electric heating
Cons of Gas Heating
- Gas heaters are not as long-lasting as electric heaters
- Installation and maintenance costs are higher
- It can be dangerous to health and can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning
It’s Really Up To You!
Whether you choose a gas heater or an electric heater, it is important to ensure that you select a system that can last for nothing less than 10 to 30 years. If you’re after the heater’s efficiency, you might prefer settling for an electric heater because they are generally more efficient than gas heaters.
If you’re also after a heater that won’t cost you much to buy and install, the electric heater will be an ideal option for you. However, if you have access to natural gas, you might want to get a gas heater.
The gas heater will be a better option for people who stay in a cooler climate and want their homes to heat fast. The running cost of a gas heater is also generally lower than that of electric heaters, and if you want to cut down on electricity bills, the gas heater will be perfect for you. Thus, it’s really up to you to decide what heating system is perfect for your living conditions. Whichever you choose, remember that professionals better handle the installation and maintenance process, so do yourself a favour and contact one to help.
