Electric heating may be cheaper than natural gas heating in Suffolk County, depending on your home and unique heating needs. However, for the average Long Island home with a gas hookup, a furnace connected to National Grid is often the most cost-efficient option.
Electric Heating is Best for Homes with Solar Panels
If you have solar panels on your rooftop, then electric heating will be a more affordable option. Solar panels offset your electricity consumption and reduce the amount you pay to the utility company. Solar can significantly reduce the cost of heating your home with a central heat pump installation or mini-split heating.
Electric Heating May be More Economical if You Need Heating and Cooling
If you need to replace or install an air conditioner and furnace, the initial installation may be more cost-efficient when you choose a heat pump.
- A Suffolk County heat pump installation provides cooling in summer and heating in winter.
- You will maintain the same equipment year-round, so upkeep is simplified.
- You may qualify for tax credits or local incentives when installing an efficient heating system.
The long-term costs are the most important consideration when comparing electric and gas heating in Suffolk County. Electricity and gas rates are likely to increase over time. The cost to run your system today could be less expensive than in ten or fifteen years.
An experienced HVAC installer makes all the difference. Soundview HVAC has served Suffolk County since 2000, and will provide a detailed consultation covering costs and maintenance to help you choose the most efficient solution for your home.
Gas vs. Electric Heating Cheat Sheet
|
|
Natural Gas Heating |
Electric Heat Pump |
|
Upfront Cost |
Lower for a standard furnace/boiler. |
Higher for a central or mini-split heat pump system. |
|
Rebates |
Minimal small equipment rebates. |
Potential significant PSEG LI rebates, especially for Energy Star equipment. |
|
Maintenance |
Annual Safety Service. |
Seasonal service, filter replacement and cleaning. |
|
Heating and Cooling? |
No: Heating Only |
Yes: Year-Round Comfort |
Choose a Natural Gas Furnace Installation If…
- You already have a gas line to your home, and you need to replace an old gas system. This minimizes the cost of an upgrade.
- You want a low upfront cost.
- Your home has old insulation. Gas heating is more powerful in older homes with outdated or insufficient insulation.
- Your home has minimal natural surrounding shelter, and you need extreme cold performance.
Choose an Electric Heat Pump Installation if…
- You want to upgrade from oil or propane heating. An electric heat pump is significantly cheaper than oil heating, and is also safer and more convenient (no fuel storage or combustion).
- You already have or plan to install solar panels. Producing your own electricity makes electric heating a great value.
- You want to future-proof your home. New York is gradually moving towards a gas-free energy environment. National Grid rates have increased significantly in recent years. Investing in electric heating today could ensure the most cost-efficient solution in the long term.
Pro Tip for Suffolk County Heating
If you aren’t ready to go 100% electric, you could consider a dual-fuel system. The hybrid approach to home HVAC combines a gas furnace with an electric heat pump. You can use gas during short periods of extremely cold temperatures and use electric heating and cooling for most of the year.
Talk to a Trusted Heating Installer in Suffolk County
Every home is unique in its materials, layout, and family comfort needs. The best heating installation for you depends on your budget, specific requirements, and preferences. Soundview Heat and Air Conditioning is your local heating installer in Suffolk County. We will help you compare objective data and features to determine the best heating installation for your unique case.
Contact us today at 631-209-1744 or request your free heating installation estimate online.



