What Are The Different Types Of Furnaces?

A furnace is a type of central heating unit that has been used for decades to warm homes, buildings, and other structures. While older models were powered by coal and wood, modern furnaces typically run on gas, electricity, or induction to generate energy. Furnaces play a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable and heated living environment. Let’s explore the different types of furnaces and see which one might be the best fit for your needs.

Common Types of Furnaces

There are three main types of furnaces to consider, those being natural gas, oil, and electric. Each type offers distinct characteristics, varying costs, and differing efficiency ratings, making it essential to understand what each option provides before making a decision.

Natural Gas Furnaces

Natural gas furnaces are among the most efficient systems in terms of operating costs. They provide cleaner-burning fuel than oil and reduce the overall demand for electricity in the area. These furnaces heat up quickly and are a cost-effective option for many homeowners. If your property has access to public natural gas or an on-site tank, they are a great option. They do require cleaning and ideally, annual maintenance to function efficiently.

Oil-Burning Furnaces

Oil furnaces are known for their efficiency in heating, especially in colder climates. Since oil burns hotter than gas, these furnaces provide more heat per BTU, which makes them especially effective in frigid environments. With proper maintenance, they can last up to 30 years and are often more practical in remote areas where natural gas may not be available. However, oil-burning furnaces come with certain drawbacks. They tend to be the most expensive type of furnace, with heating costs fluctuating based on the price of crude oil. Homeowners must also install a tank on their property and be responsible for scheduling oil deliveries. They also require more cleaning and filter changes than other types of furnaces.

Electric Furnaces

Electric furnaces offer a number of advantages, including the ability to adjust the temperature in individual rooms, making them a flexible option. They are also environmentally friendly, heat up quickly, and have low installation costs. Since electricity is readily available, these furnaces have been very convenient for most households. Electric furnaces are also quiet and do not emit harmful fumes. Despite these benefits, electric furnaces can have high operating costs and produce dry heat that some may find uncomfortable. If there’s a power outage, the furnace will stop working since it relies entirely on electricity.

Sanks Helps Heat Your Home

When it comes to furnace repair, replacement, and maintenance in Bucks County, Chester County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia, trust Sanks Mechanical to deliver expert service and reliable solutions. Our team is committed to keeping your home comfortable and your furnace running efficiently, no matter the type or brand. Whether you’re looking to extend the life of your current system with regular maintenance, replace an outdated unit, or need quick repairs, we’re here to help. Contact Sanks Mechanical today to ensure your heating system is ready for the season ahead, or if you’re still wondering what the different types of furnaces are.