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If you live in the Midwest, you know that choosing the right heating source is one of the most important decisions when it comes to surviving the brutal winters. Winters in this area are long, cold, and unpredictable. This means that you need a system that’s reliable, efficient, and powerful.
Here is a quick Q&A guide comparing propane and electric heat based on the five factors homeowners should care about most.
Propane: Propane systems deliver consistent heat, even in sub-zero temperatures. They are designed to perform well regardless of outdoor conditions.
Electric: Electric systems—especially heat pumps—often struggle when temperatures drop, relying on expensive backup heat strips to keep up.
Propane: Propane offers dependable heating during storms and power outages because your home has its own on-site fuel supply.
Electric: Electric heat is entirely dependent on the power grid. When the electricity goes out, the heat goes out too.
Propane: Propane furnaces typically deliver warmer air (120–140°F), heating homes quickly and comfortably.
Electric: Electric systems provide cooler, gradual heat and may need to run longer to achieve the same comfort level.
Propane: Modern propane furnaces can exceed 90% efficiency, converting most of the fuel into usable heat.
Electric: While electric systems can be efficient, their performance drops during extreme cold, increasing energy use and costs.
Propane: Propane furnaces have a lifespan of around 15–20 years with proper maintenance.
Electric: Electric systems can last a similar length of time but tend to experience more strain during harsh winter seasons.
For Midwest winters, propane stands out for its cold-weather performance, strong heat output, and reliability when storms hit. Electric heat may work well in milder climates, but for long, freezing seasons, propane remains a dependable and efficient choice for homeowners.
