The age old question of gas appliances versus electric appliances has been revived yet again and whether or not you are considering remodeling your kitchen, replacing your furnace or trying to reduce your reliance on fossil fuels, there has never been a better time to really think this issue through. Each person may have their own personal beliefs on the matter, but there are a few standard downsides and plusses to both types of power. Let’s look at a couple and see which type may be best for your own needs.

Natural Gas / Propane – Plusses

This is considered to be a clean burning fuel by many and although prices are nearing $3.00 a gallon in many parts of the country, it is still cheaper than home heating oil, which is now closer to $6. With the right furnace or appliance, propane and natural gas can be very efficient.

In areas of the country where power outages are frequent, having a gas appliance or furnace may mean the difference between staying warm and having food to eat, or freezing in the depths of winter. For those that are out in the country or in areas where these power outages do occur on a frequent basis, this is a very sound solution.

Natural Gas / Propane – Downsides

The main downside at this point is of course the overall cost. If you have older appliances or an old furnace, it may not be very efficient and you can easily spend thousands just trying to keep your house warm. The other major downside is the risk for carbon monoxide poisoning.

If you do have natural gas or propane appliances or a furnace, it is vital to keep them serviced, check the pilot lights and take precautions to keep everything running smoothly.

Electric – Plusses

When it comes to convenience, electricity is usually the best. You don’t have to wait for it to be delivered, and if you keep paying your bill, it’s always on. Many consider electric appliances to be safer, and they are also generally a little bit cheaper to purchase upfront.

Depending on the part of the country where you live, the cost for electricity is generally much less than it is for natural gas and propane. The western states may be an exception to this, but generally, you can count on the price per kilowatt to be much lower and more affordable than gas.

Electric – Downsides

When the power goes out, so does your furnace and appliances. This can be a major problem, especially in winter. If you do have an electric furnace, consider getting a generator if you do have problems with outages. It may mean the difference between staying cozy and risking freezing to death.

Inefficient electric appliances however can end up costing you quite a bit more, and it definitely pays to upgrade older models to Energy Star models. Many of these appliances can be run for an entire year on less than $50.

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Air Conditioning, Energy, Heating

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