Natural Gas vs Electric Heating Cost Calculator
Compare the annual heating bill for natural gas, electric resistance and a heat pump for the same home heating load.
Compare Your Options And Get Clear Answers
Compare the annual heating bill for natural gas, electric resistance and a heat pump for the same home heating load.
Natural Gas vs Electric Heating Cost Estimator
Enter your numbers below for an instant estimate.
How It Works
Key concepts behind this calculator
Heat Needed
Estimate annual heat in kWh from past bills.
Fuel Input
Divide by efficiency (or COP for heat pumps).
Cost
Multiply by unit price for each fuel.
Use As A Guide
Results are estimates based on your inputs. Check real quotes, rates and professional advice before deciding.
Heating Fuel Comparison
Typical efficiency and cost characteristics.
| Heating Type | Efficiency | Fuel Unit | Typical Cost per kWh of Heat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas furnace (92%) | Therm | $0.05 β $0.07 | undefined |
| Electric baseboard | kWh | $0.14 β $0.20 | undefined |
| Heat pump (COP 3) | kWh | $0.05 β $0.08 | undefined |
| Oil furnace | Gallon | $0.10 β $0.15 | undefined |
| Rule of Thumb | Gas < resistance electric | Heat pump competes with gas | Use local prices |
Natural Gas vs Calculator FAQ
Answers to common questions about this calculator.
Usually, per unit of heat. Heat pumps can be as cheap or cheaper than gas in many areas.
A unit of heat equal to 100,000 BTU, about 29.3 kWh.
Coefficient of performance, the heat delivered per unit of electricity.
No. Use your latest utility rates.