If you are looking for available heating options for your home, there are several reasons why you should consider getting gas furnaces. But, before you make a commitment to purchase a gas furnace for your home, you need to look at its pros and cons in order to make an informed choice.
Pros and Cons of Gas Furnaces
Sales of gas furnaces have steadily increased in recent years. This can be attributed largely to the benefits these offer.
One of the chief advantages of gas furnaces over other heating systems is that these are relatively cheaper to maintain. Although the initial investment for other heating systems may be lower, you can end up saving more money with a gas furnace through lower maintenance costs.
Gas furnaces are known for their durability and dependability. After you have one installed in your home, you can expect it to perform reliable service over the next years.
Apart from that, you can save in other key areas, including your energy bills. Natural gas is one of the cheapest fuels around; it is also one of the cleanest.
In terms of efficiency, gas furnaces top the list. Gas furnaces can provide ample heat for a home while using little fuel.
Finally, gas furnaces are versatile. These can be used not only for heating homes, but also for heating water and any other applications that require heat.
But despite these advantages, gas furnaces have a few disadvantages.
For one, the acquisition cost is considerably higher compared to other heating systems. However, if you are willing to make an investment in one, you will be rewarded later through cost savings over the long term.
Another disadvantage of gas furnaces is that fuel may not be readily available in the area where you live. This is why it is crucial that you determine first if natural gas is available in your area before you purchase a gas furnace.
Finally, gas furnaces can leak and cause adverse side effects. As such, if you are planning to buy one for your home, it is important to enforce safety strategies like installing gas leak detectors.
If you are planning on buying a gas furnace, consider buying a condensing furnace which reuses heat instead of venting this out.
Safeguarding Against Gas Leaks
Gas leaks, including those in gas furnaces, can be attributed to poor maintenance, poor fit, or faults in the furnace.
When the furnace’s pipes are not properly fitted, gas can escape either around the seal or from the pipes.
This is why it is important that gas furnaces are installed and checked by qualified professionals.
Sometimes, a gas leak may occur if the furnace is old.
If you are moving into a home with a gas furnace, you should type “HVAC service near me” on Google to find professionals within the area to check the furnace for you.
When gas leaks occur, there is a high risk for fires, explosions and gas poisoning.
Detecting Gas Leaks
One of the most common signs of a gas leak is the smell that circulates around your home.
Apart from that, the members of the household may experience physical symptoms. These include lightheadedness, dizziness, and nausea. If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you need to get fresh air. If these symptoms stop once you are outside, then there is a good chance that there is a gas leak in your home.
Other signs to look for include excessive condensation on windows, a blown-out pilot light, and soot near the furnace.
What to do if you Smell Gas
Timing is crucial here.
The first thing that you need to do is to turn off the gas at the gas meter. When you move into a home with a gas furnace or after having one installed, make sure you know where the valve is located.
Next, allow fresh air to come into your home to disperse the gas. Do not use electrical switches since sparks from these can cause explosions. Also, avoid smoking or using matches.
After that, call in HVAC experts to locate the source of the leak.
Preventing Gas Leaks
Make sure that your furnace is checked at least once a year. This is particularly important if you have an old furnace.
Do not entrust this vital task to just anyone. You have to find qualified professionals to have your furnace checked.
If you are moving into a property with a gas furnace, make sure that you have it checked well ahead of your move. This will allow you to get the system fixed before you move and settle in.
Learn the signs of a gas leak. This will help protect your family and your property if one occurs in your home. On top of that, you should also know what to do in case a gas leak occurs in your home.
Check your furnace regularly and look for signs that indicate that it may not be working properly and then hire professionals to get these fixed.
Finally, invest in audible alarms. Sometimes, you can’t smell the gas leaking from the furnace. As such, a furnace can act as a like of defense against gas leaks.
Regular safety check-ups and servicing can reduce the risk of gas leaks from your gas furnace. Keep your home safe and Call Ventwerx HVAC Today!
