Furnaces

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Gas furnaces generate heat by burning propane or natural gas. That heat is then funneled through a heat exchanger.  As air from ductwork passes by the exchanger, the air is warmed and distributed throughout the space.

Pros of gas furnaces:

• Faster heating: Gas furnaces produce heat faster than other technologies. Heat is instantly generated by burning gas regardless of how cold the air is which is especially helpful in extremely cold environments.
• Lower operating cost: Lower consumption of energy typically results in lower utility bills which ultimately reduces operating costs over the life of the unit.
• Versatility: A gas furnace may be combined with an air conditioner or heat pump to maximize efficiency across different seasons and weather conditions.

Cons of gas furnaces:

• Higher upfront cost: Gas furnaces tend to be more expensive to install than other types of units.
• Emissions: Even when functioning properly, some carbon dioxide is released when a gas furnace is running. When properly installed and maintained, these risks are minimized. However, a problematic unit may cause damage and health issues. 
• Shorter lifespan: The average lifespan of a well-maintained gas furnace is 10-15 years, compared to up to 30 years for other HVAC technologies.