Gas Appliances

Considering switching to gas appliances could be a way to lower expenditures while seeing increases in comfort, convenience and efficiency.

Gas abundant in the US meaning that prices are low and stable, and shale gas is relatively the least polluting non-renewable energy source, consequently, it can be seen as the environmentally responsible choice.

If you already have a natural gas line in your home, or are buying a new dwelling you might consider the possible advantages of gas appliances and natural gas home appliances.

Learn more about gas appliances below from Payne Appliance Repair:

What are Gas Home Appliances?

A natural gas device makes use of gas as the main power source. These goods present a workable substitute to electrical goods for heating your living space, providing hot water, heating food and even air conditioning and laundry.

Usually you will still need to supply electricity to a gas appliance. The quantity electricity needed depends on how the appliance works. For example, a natural gas water heater will work even if the electricity cuts out, whereas a natural gas clothes dryer still requires electrical components.

Different Gas Home Appliances

Gas has any number of uses in your home.

Heating

Keeping yourself warm with natural gas generally costs less than keeping warm using electrical heaters. The difference can be as high as 50% depending on your fuel prices and relative efficiency gains.

Natural gas provides higher air temperatures and offers better reliability.This is very handy if you experience regular power outages in the winter

Fireplaces

As well as heating gas is great for a fireplace. With a gas fireplace, you still get that open fire feeling and a warm home without the fuss.

Air Conditioning

Gas air conditioners can be an efficient method to keep cool, even if there is a power cut.

Gas powered air conditioning requires a greater initial investment but is cheaper on an ongoing basis meaning savings in the long term. Better efficiency also has a positive impact on your carbon footprint.

Heating Water

There are two types of gas water heaters, non-tank and tank. Gas heaters are quicker and more efficient than electric water heaters. Tankless water heaters also provide a continuous supply.

The fact that natural gas lines are generally dug into the ground and guarded from the elements ensures you still have hot water even when you don’t have electricity.

Preparing Food

We’ve all come across the phrase “cooking with gas”. A gas company marketing line created to link natural gas with effectiveness and efficiency.

Clever marketing or not the saying is used today because it is accurate. Most chefs and home cooks choose gas for the fact that they can vary the size of the flame, and natural gas ranges provide a less wasteful way of converting energy into heat.

Tumble Dryers

You might not instantly think of using natural gas in your laundry room, however, natural gas dryers are a great choice. They dry clothes a few degrees hotter thus drying clothes in a shorter time and clothes have to endure less tumbling.

Outdoor Entertaining

You have to restrict your gas use to indoor appliances. Outside, gas is often used for lighting and cooking and even to heat your pool.

Impress friends before they even get out of the car with driveway lighting, keep them warm even when the temperature falls and get dinner ready outside, when you like, and without the having to go to fill up your gas bottles.

Just like domestic water heaters a pool or spa heater will heat the water twice as fast as an electric heater. And gas patio heaters set the mood as well as giving warmth for luxurious outside living.

Advantages of Gas Home Appliances

With any decision you make it’s best investigate the pros and the cons. First up the benefits of choosing Natural Gas.

Natural gas is generally cheaper than electricity saving you money on your annual energy costs.
Natural gas devices tend to be more efficient making them better for your wallet and for the environment.
Natural gas is an ecologically sound choice as it is the least polluting of the fossil fuels, with emissions of around 27% less carbon dioxide than oil and 45% less C02 than coal.
Gas supplies are generally more reliable and less susceptible to damage or interruption This means you can still heat your home even if you get a power outage.At worst you might need to find a match.

Cons of Gas Home Appliances

Gas home appliances generally require a higher initial outlay. Both the ticket price of the appliance and the installation cost are likely to be greater for a gas appliance when comparing to electrical alternatives.
Having a gas line installed can be expensive. The cost will vary depending on a number of factors, so it is worth talking to your supplier before deciding.
Having a gas line moved or extended can also cost a considerable amount.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can be a killer if natural gas appliances are not installed correctly or regularly maintained. Installing a carbon monoxide alarm is non-negotiable is you use gas in your home.

Is a Gas Appliance The Right Choice for You?

Making the choice between natural gas and electricity is not straightforward and the right choice for you might not be the best decision for everyone.

If your main driver is cost gas is at the moment the cheaper fuel. However, while studies show that three-quarters of new home buyers are choosing to have natural gas, switching to gas is expensive. Thus, getting a quote for installing a natural gas line if you don’t already have one is a good first step.

Another benefit of natural gas is stability of supply. If power failures are common where you live then having appliances that continue to work during outages can be a big plus.

Lastly, in environmental terms, while gas devices are generally more efficient you can’t switch them to renewable sources in the same way you can electrical home appliances. Opting for renewable energy could be a better investment and more eco-friendly options in the long run.