Natural Gas Vs Electric Heat Calculator

Cost Formulas:

\[ \text{Cost NG} = \frac{\text{Heat Load}}{\text{Efficiency NG}} \times \text{Rate NG} \] \[ \text{Cost Electric} = \frac{\text{Heat Load}}{\text{COP}} \times \text{Rate E} \]

Heat Load (kWh):

kWh

Efficiency NG (%):

COP (dimensionless):

Rate NG ($/unit):

$/kWh

Rate E ($/unit):

$/kWh

Cost NG:

Cost Electric:

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1. What is Natural Gas Vs Electric Heat Calculator?

This calculator compares the operating costs of natural gas heating systems versus electric heating systems. It helps homeowners and businesses determine which heating option is more cost-effective based on their specific circumstances.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses these formulas:

\[ \text{Cost NG} = \frac{\text{Heat Load}}{\text{Efficiency NG}} \times \text{Rate NG} \] \[ \text{Cost Electric} = \frac{\text{Heat Load}}{\text{COP}} \times \text{Rate E} \]

Where:

$ \text{Heat Load} $ — Total heating requirement in kilowatt-hours (kWh)
$ \text{Efficiency NG} $ — Natural gas system efficiency as a percentage
$ \text{COP} $ — Coefficient of Performance for electric heat pump (dimensionless)
$ \text{Rate NG} $ — Natural gas rate in dollars per kWh equivalent
$ \text{Rate E} $ — Electricity rate in dollars per kWh

Explanation: The calculator compares the actual energy costs by accounting for system efficiencies and local utility rates.

3. Importance of Heating Cost Comparison

Details: Comparing heating costs helps make informed decisions about heating system selection, potential savings, and return on investment for system upgrades or replacements.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your heating requirements, system efficiencies, and local utility rates. Typical values are pre-filled, but you should adjust them to match your specific situation for accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical efficiency for natural gas systems?
A: Modern high-efficiency gas furnaces range from 90-98%, while standard efficiency models are around 80%.

Q2: What COP values are typical for heat pumps?
A: Air-source heat pumps typically have COP values of 2-4, while ground-source (geothermal) heat pumps can reach COP values of 3-5.

Q3: How do I find my local utility rates?
A: Check your utility bills or contact your gas and electric providers for current rates. Rates may vary by season and usage tier.

Q4: Does this calculator include installation costs?
A: No, this calculator only compares operating costs. Initial installation costs should be considered separately when making decisions.

Q5: Are there other factors to consider beyond cost?
A: Yes, environmental impact, system reliability, maintenance requirements, and available incentives should also be considered.