Energy Efficiency Archives - NaturalGasPlans

Which is Better: Gas Dryer or Electric Dryer?

Shopping for a new dryer and deciding between gas vs electric? As a site focused on natural gas, we of course have an opinion on this. While gas dryers cost less to operate, they are more expensive up front.

To compare and decide between a gas vs. electric dryer, you need to understand how they work and how to compare costs across two different energy sources.

The bottom line: Gas dryers are around 1/3 the operating cost of an electric dryer. But gas dryers are also 15-20% more expensive. The break even on the higher expense takes around 8 months of operating costs.

Spring Cleaning for Your Gas Appliances

Spring cleaning is the perfect time to schedule some maintenance for your gas appliances.

Spring cleaning is not just about tidying up your living space; it’s also the perfect time to perform maintenance on your gas appliances to maintain efficiency and safety.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of common gas appliances and maintenance tips, covering everything from your cooktop and oven to your water heater and outdoor equipment.

4 Mistakes That Increase Your Winter Heating Bill

Simple changes in your habits and your home can help you cut your winter heating bill this season. Here are the 4 winter heating mistakes that are likely driving up your bill.

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Key Takeaways

These mistakes can lead to a high winter heating bill:

Setting the thermostat too high. Instead, set at 68* while at home, 60* when away and 65* for sleeping.
Setting the thermostat higher to warm up faster. Your heating system will work at the same level no matter the setting.
Buying the wrong size space heater. Rule of thumb is 100 watts per square foot.
Thinking your home is airtight. Around 30% of your heat is lost through doors, windows and your attic.

Fall Home Maintenance Tips for Safety & Energy Efficiency

Last Updated September 18, 2025

What should you do to get your house ready for fall? The fall home maintenance checklist is an important part of managing your home investment. Here are 17 home maintenance tips for fall, with a special section on prepping your natural gas furnace for heating season.

Natural Gas Appliance Rebates – Cash Back from Local Utilities

Shopping for new natural gas appliances? Check with your natural gas utility company first. Many local gas companies offer rebates for new natural gas appliances. These funds encourage people to install more efficient gas appliances. And that in turn reduces natural gas demand and carbon emissions.

Gas Furnace Maintenance – DIY Tune Up

An annual furnace tune up is part of maintaining your natural gas heating system. Maintaining your furnace can save you a great deal of time and money. Because emergency furnace repairs can be costly and inconvenient, especially around the holidays and during the winter.

Winter Heating Safety Tips

With winter heating comes the need for winter heating safety. December, January and February are the leading months for home heating fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Here are the areas of your home where you should focus, to keep your family safe.

Natural Gas Fireplace – Types, Maintenance and Efficiency

When it comes to fireplaces, most people immediately think of wood as a heat source. But wood is actually one of the most inefficient ways to heat up a room, a space, or your home. Enter the natural gas fireplace.

Gas fireplaces are an alternative to wood fireplaces, and many people actually prefer them for different reasons.

Best Thermostat Setting for Cold Weather

Heating bills too high? Here’s the best thermostat setting for cold weather if you want to save on your heating bill. Your natural gas furnace is the biggest consumer of gas in your home, more than your other appliances combined. Managing your home temperature can cut costs from your bill.

How to Maintain Your Gas Water Heater (And Avoid High Gas Bills)

Water heater maintenance is an important step to keep your natural gas bill under control. Although heaters that run on natural gas use less energy and are more cost-effective than electric water heaters, they aren’t necessarily problem-free. High gas bills could still be a concern if you don’t maintain your water heater properly.

Water heaters account for approximately 17% of your total household energy expenditure, according to Energy.gov. That’s why it’s important to understand how gas water heaters work and how to maintain them.

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