Boise’s fall moves fast. One week, you’re running the AC; the next, you’re waking up to 40° mornings. Around this time of year, many homeowners start asking: Is my furnace ready for another Idaho winter?
If you’re thinking about upgrading—or building a new home—you’re likely comparing heating systems, including furnace types. One of the biggest decisions comes down to this: electric vs. gas furnace. Both keep your home warm, but how they operate, what they cost, and how they fit into your long-term plans can vary widely.
This guide breaks down the key pros and cons and the decision factors of natural gas and electric furnaces, so you can make a choice that fits your comfort, budget, and home.
Electric vs. Gas Furnace: How They Work
Both gas and electric furnaces heat your home—but in very different ways:
-
Gas furnaces burn natural gas to generate heat.
-
Electric furnaces use heating elements powered by electricity to warm air.
Each has trade-offs in cost, efficiency, installation, maintenance, and environmental impact. The right choice depends on your home, your heating needs, and your long-term goals.
Electric Furnaces: Pros, Cons, and Lifespan
Electric furnaces are often the go-to for homes without natural gas lines or for homeowners who want a simple, low-maintenance heating system.
Pros of an Electric Furnace:
-
Lower upfront cost for equipment and installation
-
No combustion—safer, cleaner, and fewer emissions
-
Minimal maintenance compared to gas systems
-
Durable—typically lasts 15–20 years, sometimes longer
Cons of an Electric Furnace:
-
Higher monthly energy costs in areas with expensive electricity
-
Slower heat delivery than gas, especially in very cold weather
-
100% dependent on electricity—no heat during power outages
What Makes Electric Furnaces Efficient?
Electric furnaces convert nearly all electricity into heat, often reaching 100% efficiency. There’s no fuel waste, no chimney loss, and no venting required. In Boise, where much of the electricity comes from hydroelectric power, this makes electric furnaces a cleaner option than in regions with coal-heavy grids.
Operating Costs to Consider:
Even though they’re highly efficient, electric furnaces can be more expensive to run. A typical 2,000 sq. ft. home in Boise may spend roughly $300–$500 per month heating with electricity during the coldest months—compared to $150–$250 per month with natural gas.
Key Takeaway: Electric furnaces provide clean, reliable heat with minimal upkeep, but monthly costs can be higher depending on local electricity rates and the size of your home.
Natural Gas Furnaces: Pros, Cons, and Efficiency
Natural gas furnaces remain a popular choice for many Boise homeowners—especially those with existing gas service or larger heating needs.
Pros of a Natural Gas Furnace:
-
Lower monthly operating costs than electric in most cases
-
Faster heating—ideal for cold snaps
-
Works well in large homes or extreme cold
-
Long lifespan (15–20 years) with regular maintenance
Cons of a Natural Gas Furnace:
-
Higher upfront installation cost, especially if gas lines are needed
-
Requires venting, annual maintenance, and carbon monoxide precautions
-
Burns fossil fuel—larger environmental impact than electricity in Idaho
Understanding Natural Gas Furnace Efficiency:
Gas furnaces are rated using percentages of AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency)—the higher the number, the better. A 90% AFUE furnace converts 90% of the fuel into usable heat; the remaining 10% is lost through exhaust. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that new, modern gas furnaces can often reach 95–98% AFUE thanks to variable-speed motors and sealed combustion.
Key Takeaway: Gas furnaces heat quickly and cost less to operate than electric in most areas—but they require more maintenance and proper safety precautions..
How to Decide Between an Electric or a Natural Gas Furnace
There’s no universal right answer when it comes to electric vs gas furnace—but there is a right choice for your home, your comfort goals, and your budget. The best furnace for you depends on how your home is set up, what fuels are available, and what kind of performance and savings you’re looking for over time.
You may lean toward an electric furnace if you:
-
Don’t have access to a natural gas line
-
Prefer a system with fewer moving parts and simpler maintenance
-
Want a cleaner energy source and a longer average lifespan (often 20–30 years)
-
Are in a milder climate where ultra-fast heating isn’t critical
A gas furnace might be a better fit if you:
-
Want lower monthly heating costs, especially during cold snaps
-
Live in a colder area or have a larger home that needs powerful, fast heat
-
Already use natural gas for your stove, water heater, or dryer
-
Plan to stay in your home long enough to benefit from the lower operating costs
Other considerations—like your home’s insulation, square footage, long-term energy goals, and how long you plan to live there—can also shift the balance. A licensed HVAC technician can evaluate your home and help walk you through your options so you feel confident in your choice.
Key Takeaway: Your home’s setup, your energy priorities, and your long-term comfort all matter. Use them to guide a decision that works today—and for years to come.
Incentives and Tax Rebates for Furnace Upgrades
Upgrading your furnace doesn’t just bring better comfort and efficiency—it can also put money back in your pocket. Homeowners in the Boise area may qualify for a variety of incentives, rebates, and tax credits designed to make energy-efficient improvements more affordable.
Here’s what to look for:
- Federal Tax Credits: Qualifying energy-efficient furnaces may make you eligible for credits that reduce your tax bill at the end of the year.
- Local Utility Rebates: Idaho Power and other providers often offer cash-back or bill credits when you install high-efficiency equipment.
- ENERGY STAR® Perks: Systems that meet ENERGY STAR® standards may come with added benefits or rebate opportunities.
- Regional Programs: From city- and state-level initiatives to limited-time offers, Boise-area homeowners have access to special programs that encourage home energy upgrades.
These incentives can significantly reduce your upfront costs—making it easier to invest in the long-term comfort and reliability of your home. Be sure to talk with your HVAC provider before installation to see which programs are currently available and how to apply.
When to Seek Electric or Gas Furnace Repair or Replacement
It’s not always easy to tell when your furnace is just having an off day—or signaling that something more serious is going on. But ignoring the early signs can lead to higher energy bills, inconsistent comfort, or even a full system failure when you least expect it.
Here are a few red flags that suggest it’s time to call a pro:
-
Frequent on/off cycling
-
Loud banging, rattling, or unusual noises
-
Uneven heating or cold spots
-
Rising energy bills
-
Age 15+ with repeated service needs
If you’re noticing any of these symptoms—or just want peace of mind before the cold really settles in—now’s the time to schedule a professional inspection. Our expert technicians can help you decide whether an electric or gas furnace repair makes sense, or if it’s time to start planning for a furnace replacement or upgrade.
Call Perfect Plumbing, Heating & Air
Choosing the right furnace isn’t just about gas vs. electric—it’s about finding a system that fits your home, your energy goals, and your peace of mind. Whether you’re planning a full system upgrade or just wondering if your current setup can make it through another winter, we’re here to help.
At Perfect Plumbing, Heating & Air, we provide Boise homeowners with honest answers, expert insight, and long-term solutions tailored to our local climate. No pressure. No guesswork. Just real guidance from your local team—we know what our neighbors need to stay warm and efficient all season long. Call or schedule online to book your consultation today—and head into winter with comfort you can count on.