How do I Choose Between an Electric vs. Gas Furnace?

October 31, 2024

Just can’t seem to get your home warm enough in cooler temperatures? Well, it may be time to upgrade your heating system! Yet, with so many different types of systems to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you? Custom Cooling & Heating is here to help you navigate that decision-making process. So, let’s talk about furnaces. In this blog, we’ll answer the question “How do I choose between an electric vs. gas furnace?” 


1. Efficiency and Operating Costs 

Electric furnaces are known for their 100% efficiency (buy $1 of electricity and get $1 worth of heat) and typical lower installation costs compared to gas furnaces. They don't need a flue or vent, so that makes the installation process easier and less expensive than gas furnaces. The downside to electric furnaces is that they can be more costly in the long run to operate in areas with higher electricity rates and sometimes the home doesn’t have the adequate electrical panel size or space for the electric furnace. 


On the other hand, gas furnaces typically have lower operating costs, especially in areas where natural gas is readily available and fairly affordable. The initial investment may be higher, but the long-term savings on energy bills can definitely offset those costs, especially if you chose a 96% - 97%  efficiency gas or propane furnace. 


2. Performance and Comfort 

Gas furnaces are known for their incredible heating abilities. They can warm up spaces of any size and any temperature, getting the job done quickly and efficiently. They provide consistent heat, which can be especially comforting in colder climates.  All new models have a high efficiency blower and many have 2-stage or multi-stage heating capability. 


Electric furnaces may be efficient, but they might struggle to keep up with that same level of heating performance as gas furnaces, particularly in extreme cold conditions. Electric furnaces are typically coupled with heat pumps allowing them to only needed during colder temperatures.  Electric furnaces typically have a louder blower noise due to their design. 


3. Environmental Impact & Sustainability 

Electric furnaces produce zero emissions while in use, making them a cleaner and more environmentally friendly option. Electric furnaces are considered a more sustainable choice, bonus points if they’re powered by renewable energy sources like solar or wind.  Keep in mind a lot of our electrical energy in the midwest comes from either coal fired or natural gas power plants. 


While gas furnaces are efficient, they do produce emissions during combustion, contributing to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Luckily, modern technology allows for more environmentally friendly options with lower emissions.  There is not a lot of wasted energy in the combustion process of a 95% or 97% furnace. 


4. Installation and Maintenance 

Electric furnaces are typically easier to install and require less maintenance than gas furnaces. Because they don't require a flue or chimney, there are no concerns about carbon monoxide leaks or gas line connections.  Electric furnaces still need maintenance but there are less components internally to fail than a typical gas furnace. 



Gas furnaces require proper venting and combustion air supply, which might require additional installation considerations. They also need regular maintenance, including annual inspections and cleaning of the burner and flue. 


Making the Right Choice 

Choosing between an electric and gas furnace ultimately depends on what your specific needs, budget, and priorities are. If you’re looking for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, an electric furnace may be the way to go. But if heating capabilities and lower operating costs fit your needs better, a gas furnace may be the better choice for you. 


At Custom Cooling & Heating, we're here to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect HVAC system solution for your home. Contact us today to learn more about our furnace options and schedule a consultation with one of our experts. 

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What Size HVAC System Does Your Home Actually Need?

October 5, 2026
A bigger furnace or air conditioner might sound like a safer choice, especially when you’re preparing for a Nebraska summer or winter. But equipment that is too large can cause comfort problems of its own. Equipment that is too small can struggle when temperatures reach their extremes. The right size depends on how much heating and cooling your home actually needs. If you’re planning an HVAC installation in Lincoln, NE, understanding how that need is calculated can help you make a more informed decision about your investment. Square Footage Is Only the Starting Point Two homes with the same square footage may need different HVAC systems. One might have well-insulated walls, newer windows, and plenty of shade. The other might have older windows, a large sun-facing living room, and rooms that are difficult to keep comfortable. A professional sizing assessment considers details such as: The home’s size and layout Insulation and air leakage Window size, type, and direction Ceiling heights Lincoln’s heating and cooling conditions The condition of your ductwork matters, too. Even equipment with the right capacity may struggle to keep every room comfortable if the ducts cannot deliver air effectively. The Problems Caused by an Oversized System An oversized air conditioner can cool the air near the thermostat quickly and shut off before it has run long enough to remove much moisture. Your home may reach the temperature you selected but still feel clammy. Short, frequent cycles can also mean more wear on the equipment. An oversized furnace may create noticeable swings between warm and cool instead of maintaining a steady temperature. The exact effects depend on the equipment and how the system is installed, but extra capacity does not automatically mean extra comfort. ENERGY STAR notes that oversized heating and cooling equipment can switch on and off rapidly, causing excess wear. A larger unit may also cost more upfront without solving the comfort issues that prompted the replacement. The Challenges of an Undersized System A system that is too small may have trouble meeting your home’s heating or cooling needs during very hot or cold weather. You might notice long run times and rooms that never seem to reach the thermostat setting. Longer run times alone do not prove a system is undersized. Some modern systems are designed to operate for extended periods at lower output. Dirty filters , duct problems, poor insulation, and other issues can also cause similar symptoms. That is why it helps to evaluate the whole home before assuming the equipment size is the problem. Check Your Home Before Choosing a System Your old HVAC system may not be the right size for your home today. New insulation, replacement windows, or a finished basement can change how much heating and cooling you need. Before selecting equipment, have a professional assess your home and discuss any rooms that are hard to keep comfortable. Ask how they chose the recommended size and whether your ductwork can support the new system. Those answers can help you choose an installation that fits your home and budget. Frequently Asked Questions Is a bigger HVAC system better for my home? No, a bigger HVAC system is not necessarily better. Oversized equipment can cycle frequently and may leave your home less comfortable, particularly when an air conditioner does not run long enough to remove enough humidity. Can I replace my old HVAC system with the same size? You can, but the old system’s size alone does not show what your home needs today. A fresh assessment is especially useful if you have had comfort problems or made changes to the house. What are signs that my HVAC system may be the wrong size? Frequent short cycles, uneven temperatures, persistent humidity, or difficulty reaching your thermostat setting can be signs of a sizing issue. Other problems can cause these symptoms, so a professional evaluation is the best next step. Plan Your HVAC Installation with Custom Cooling & Heating Choosing a new system means looking beyond the size of your current equipment. Custom Cooling & Heating has served Lincoln and the surrounding area since 1982 and can help you review your installation options.  To discuss HVAC installation in Lincoln, NE, explore our new installation services , request a free estimate , or call 402-489-9227 .

Signs Your HVAC System May Be Costing You More Than You Think

September 4, 2026
When utility bills begin to rise, it is natural to blame extreme temperatures or changing energy rates. However, part of the increase may be coming from an HVAC system that uses more energy than necessary. Many homeowners searching for heating and cooling in Lincoln, NE, do not realize how much efficiency has been lost until comfort problems or unusually high bills become difficult to ignore. Aging equipment, restricted airflow, leaking ducts, and missed maintenance can all make a system work harder to heat or cool the same space.  Custom Cooling & Heating has served Lincoln and the surrounding area since 1982. Our team can help identify the less obvious problems that affect your home’s comfort and energy use. Signs Your HVAC System May Be Wasting Energy An inefficient system does not always stop working completely. It may continue running while gradually using more energy and delivering less consistent comfort. Watch for signs such as: Utility bills rising without a clear change in household use Some rooms feeling warmer or colder than others Heating or cooling cycles that seem unusually long Frequent starts and stops Weak airflow from vents New noises, odors, or excess dust A system that struggles to reach the thermostat setting These warning signs can have several possible causes, which is why a professional evaluation is often the best way to find the source. Aging Equipment May Be Losing Efficiency Heating and cooling equipment experiences wear over time. Motors, electrical components, coils, and other parts may no longer operate as efficiently as they once did. Age alone does not automatically mean a system must be replaced. A well-maintained unit may continue providing dependable service, while a newer system with unresolved problems may still waste energy. However, rising bills, frequent repairs, uneven temperatures, and declining performance can indicate that it is time to compare HVAC repair and replacement . A technician can assess the system’s condition and help determine whether a repair could restore performance or a more efficient replacement may provide better long-term value. Airflow Problems Make the System Work Harder Your HVAC system relies on steady airflow to distribute conditioned air throughout the home. When that airflow is restricted, the equipment may need to run longer to reach the temperature set on the thermostat. A dirty filter is one of the most common causes of restricted airflow. Closed or blocked vents, buildup inside the system, blower motor problems, and poorly designed ductwork may also contribute. Check filters regularly and replace them based on the filter manufacturer’s directions and your home’s needs. If airflow remains weak after these basic checks, schedule professional service rather than continuing to lower or raise the thermostat. Leaky Ductwork Can Waste Conditioned Air The furnace or air conditioner may be operating correctly while the duct system loses heated or cooled air before it reaches your living spaces. Loose connections, gaps, holes, and missing insulation can allow conditioned air to escape into an attic, crawl space, basement, or garage. According to ENERGY STAR , a typical home can lose approximately 20% to 30% of the air moving through its duct system because of leaks, holes, and poorly connected ducts. Possible signs include uneven room temperatures, excessive dust, unusually high bills, or ducts located in unconditioned spaces that become very hot or cold. Proper sealing and insulation can improve comfort and reduce unnecessary system demand. Neglected Maintenance Allows Small Problems to Grow HVAC maintenance is designed to find developing issues before they cause a breakdown or a noticeable increase in operating costs. A system may continue running with dirty coils, worn parts, drainage problems, or incorrect settings, but it may use more energy in the process. During a maintenance visit, a technician can inspect the equipment, check electrical components, clean appropriate parts, evaluate airflow, and look for signs of wear. Custom Cooling & Heating offers maintenance memberships to help homeowners stay ahead of seasonal service needs and unexpected repairs. Find the Source of Rising Energy Bills A higher bill does not always mean you need a new furnace or air conditioner. Sometimes, replacing a filter, correcting an airflow issue, repairing a component, or sealing ductwork can make a meaningful difference. In other cases, aging or unreliable equipment may make replacement the more practical option. If you need help with heating and cooling in Lincoln, NE, Custom Cooling & Heating can evaluate your system and explain the available options. Contact our team or call 402-489-9227 to schedule a service. Frequently Asked Questions Why is my HVAC bill suddenly higher? Your HVAC bill may be higher because the system is using extra energy from weather, rate changes, airflow problems, duct leaks, equipment issues, or lost efficiency. How often should HVAC maintenance be scheduled? HVAC maintenance should usually be scheduled seasonally to keep the system efficient and catch small problems early. Does an old HVAC system always need to be replaced? No, an old HVAC system does not always need replacement. Its efficiency, repair history, condition, and comfort performance should guide the decision.