Key takeaways
- Gas furnaces heat faster and cost less to run where gas is available.
- Electric furnaces cost less upfront and are simpler to maintain.
- In Sacramento, a heat pump often beats both for efficiency.
- Your existing fuel source and long-term plans drive the decision.
If you are replacing a furnace in the Sacramento area, you will weigh gas against electric, and increasingly, against a heat pump. Each has a place. Here is how they compare for our climate.
Quick answer
Gas furnaces heat quickly and run cheaper where natural gas is available, but cost more upfront and need venting. Electric furnaces are cheaper to buy and simpler, but pricier to run. In our mild climate, a heat pump is often the most efficient option of all.
Gas furnaces
Gas furnaces produce hot air quickly and tend to cost less to operate in areas with affordable natural gas. The tradeoffs are a higher purchase price, the need for proper venting, and a carbon monoxide safety consideration that makes annual tune-ups important.
Electric furnaces
Electric furnaces cost less upfront, install easily, last a long time, and have no combustion or venting concerns. The downside is operating cost, since California electricity rates are high and resistance heat uses a lot of it.
The heat pump alternative
For most Sacramento homes, a heat pump is worth serious consideration. Our mild winters let it run efficiently, and it cools in summer too. See our full heat pump vs. furnace comparison.
How to choose
- Have affordable gas already? A gas furnace is a solid, fast-heating choice.
- No gas line or going all-electric? Consider a heat pump over a pure electric furnace.
- Replacing AC too? A heat pump handles both in one system.
Comparing heating options?
We will walk your home and recommend the best fit, with financing on new installs.
