Electric versus gas for an apartment

Question

For an apartment where I would be paying utilities (excluding water, garbage disposal, sewer), what are the advantages and disadvantages of electric versus gas? Thank you.

Answer 1

With the prices of gas going up I have found that my utility bills were better controlled when I lived in all electric.  Years ago I would have said gas is the more economic but now I would never choose it. I now live in a house that is gas heated and gas stove and my heating bill was triple last winter, and will be even more this winter I am sure. so go electric, it is clean, safe and now the better value.

Answer 2

Not really much one way or the other, though this winter gas will probably increase more than electric.

I have gas heat, gas oven, and gas water heater in an 1100 square foot home (2 bed, 2 bath) and I pay $120-$150 per month for gas heat in the winter, keeping the thermostat at 68 degrees.

My best friend has electric heat and rents the top floor of a home, she pays around $200 for heat in the winter.

I think gas is more efficient, but whatever floats your boat.  If your bills get too high, just change the thermostat and either get a sweater (winter) or put on shorts (summer).

Answer 3

That will depend on the city you live in, you should find a friend that has both gas and electricity and ask which is less expensive... I run my heater every day (San Francisco) that makes my bill high.  Make sure that your apt. has double pane windows.  If you don't cook a lot and you live in a city with a warm/hot summer days then go for electric.   The advantage of having gas is when there is a power outage you still have a cooking stove and heat.