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In this modern age, people are always looking for any appliance to make life easier for them. However, the cost implication of running these appliances is often overlooked, and it doesn’t come as a surprise when some people find it difficult to continue using some of these appliances after some time.
As there is an increase in the concern for climate change and the need to conserve resources, it has become necessary to explore the efficiency of the options made available. Some of these options include air conditioning and gas heating, as a lot of energy can be consumed when they are used in homes.
In this article, you will better understand the efficiency factors when comparing these two systems, which can help you make more informed choices that will create room for more comfort and sustainability.
Air conditioning vs. gas heating efficiency
Any debate on air conditioning and gas heating efficiency centres around determining which system offers better energy performance. An air conditioning system is designed for cooling indoor spaces, while a gas heating system is meant to provide warmth during cold seasons primarily.
Energy consumption, environmental impact, and operating costs
When comparing the efficiency of these systems, it is necessary to evaluate their energy consumption, environmental impact, operating costs, and other factors.
Air conditioners extract heat from the air indoors and cool it down through refrigeration.
This is possible through refrigerant compounds, which can absorb and release heat as they change from a liquid into a gas in a continuous cycle. When heat and moisture are removed from the indoor environment, these electrical appliances create a more conducive and comfortable living space during the hot summer months.
Source of heating
Gas heating systems use natural gas or propane as the source of fuel for generating heat in homes. Typically, these systems are made of a furnace that heats up the air, and a distribution system that moves the hot air around the room, such as ductwork or radiant heating. Gas heating systems are used in many places across the globe because of their ability to provide constant and efficient heat.
User preferences
In most homes in Australia, reverse cycle air conditioning and gas heating are the popular options people use. Reverse-cycle air conditioners are designed to heat or cool your home according to your need at a particular time. They can draw cold air from the outdoors and allow it to absorb heat from a refrigerant inside the appliance. When this air becomes warm, it is released into the room where the appliance is installed.
Reverse cycle air conditioning units can be ducted systems, in which case, heating or cooling is provided for a home through ducts in the ceiling. These appliances can also be split systems where they come with wall units that can heat or cool a room.
How reverse cycle ACs compare with gas heaters
The overall effectiveness of the heating these two types of systems provide will depend mainly on the climate of their location. Reverse-cycle air conditioning can be an excellent option for areas where winter is mild, but they are not so good in places with frigid weather.
Gas heaters can be a reliable option in cold climates because the outside temperature will not affect their performance. In the same way, you should note that gas heaters can be used when rapid and fast heating is required, but reverse-cycle air conditioning lags behind in speed and heat delivery.
Energy efficiency
Observations have shown that gas heating is less energy efficient than reverse-cycle air conditioning. If you choose a reverse cycle air conditioner with a higher energy rating, you can expect to have a lower energy consumption.
Additionally, air conditioners can be operated with an adjustable thermostat with which you can set the ideal temperature. This will prevent the wastage of energy from overheating your home.
Cost comparison
The cost of acquiring a reverse-cycle air conditioning system can be higher upfront when compared to a gas heater. However, you will soon discover that a reverse cycle air con is usually more efficient to run, and in the long term, it is also more cost-efficient.
A reverse cycle air conditioner may cost between $900 to $3000 for the acquisition and installation. Typically, costs will be between $0.13 and $0.36 for each hour of use on the heat cycle. Gas heating can cost $650 to $1,500 each year, depending on the size of your home and the frequency of its use.
Installation requirements
A gas connection will have to be provided for a gas heater before it can begin to work. Gas is burned inside, producing heat that is released into the room with fans. Some gas heaters operate with the aid of fan-powered flues, which draw in air from the outdoors and heat it up before sending some outdoors again. There are other types of gas heaters that use indoor air to heat, while flues are used to remove waste gases outside.
Differences in health and safety issues
While using gas heaters, some harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide, are emitted. It is necessary to provide adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of these toxic gases inside your home. Flued gas heaters are safer to use than non-flued options.
Air conditioners do not produce harmful gases but have been shown to clean and purify the air of contaminants such as bacteria, dust, and other pollutants. You should ensure the air quality remains healthy by regularly cleaning or replacing the filters inside your air conditioner.
Which system is best for you?
If your location is within a region where the temperature during winter gets low, you may want to opt for a gas heater. If, on the other hand, you live in a region where winters are mild, you can have precise control over your heating by using a reverse-cycle air conditioner.
Downsides of air conditioning and gas heating
There are significant advantages anyone can enjoy using air conditioning or gas heating systems. However, you should carefully consider the drawbacks before choosing between the two.
Initial equipment and installation costs
Some initial investments must be considered whichever system you decide to settle for. These include the purchase of the equipment and professional installation. The upfront costs can be substantial, especially for high-efficiency models or when you decide to retrofit an old house with air conditioning or gas heating.
Environmental concerns and carbon footprint
Both air conditioning and gas heating systems contribute to environmental concerns. Air conditioning units need refrigerants for the cooling process to take place. These chemicals have high global warming potential if they leak into the atmosphere. In the case of gas heating systems, carbon dioxide (C02) is emitted into the atmosphere during combustion, contributing to greenhouse emissions and climate change.
Dependence on fossil fuels and fluctuating energy prices
Gas heating and air conditioning systems rely primarily on fossil fuels. As a result, they are susceptible to fluctuating energy prices, which affect operating costs.
Apart from this, the reliance on non-renewable resources has been a reason for concern about long-term sustainability and the urgent need to change to cleaner and renewable energy alternatives.
Consult an expert for professional advice
Both air conditioning and gas heating systems have advantages and drawbacks, making it quite confusing to determine what option would serve you better. Notwithstanding, you will have to choose from these options, and it is recommended that you make an educated decision as this will help you a lot in the long run. After considering all the factors, you can let an HVAC expert advise you on which option will serve you better and more suited for your specific needs.
