Thinking about switching to natural gas or comparing rates for your home? You have probably heard a few claims that sound true but might not be. Let's take a closer look at seven common natural gas myths and what is actually true according to Gas South.
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Myth 1: Natural gas prices are always unpredictable.
Reality: While prices can fluctuate, natural gas has historically been one of the more stable and affordable energy sources in the U.S., especially compared to electricity or fuels like oil and propane. In 2024, for example, natural gas cost about $14 per million BTUs in the U.S. on average, compared to about $48 for electricity, which is more than three times higher.
Myth 2: Going all-electric is always cheaper.
Reality: Natural gas is often the more cost-effective option for heating, water heating, and cooking. In U.S. homes on average, it can cost 30-50% less than electricity for many uses. And history shows natural gas is often more stable and predictable when it comes to pricing.
Myth 3: Natural gas is only for heating.
Reality: While natural gas is mostly used for heating, it is also used for many other purposes. It powers appliances like water heaters, stoves, dryers, and fireplaces, as well as pool heaters and outdoor features like grills and fire pits. Some people even use it to cool spaces, as natural gas air conditioners are slowly becoming more popular.
Myth 4: Gas appliances are outdated.
Reality: Today's gas appliances are modern, efficient, and often preferred for performance, especially in cooking and heating. New high-efficiency gas furnaces, for example, can turn up to 98% of fuel into usable heat, versus older systems that could waste up to 40% of energy.
Myth 5: Natural gas isn't reliable.
Reality: Natural gas is one of the most reliable energy sources available. It is transported and delivered through extensive underground pipeline systems, which are less affected by weather and outages than overhead electricity lines. It is also an abundant energy source, with a strong supply here in the U.S.
Myth 6: Gas leaks are common.
Reality: Gas leaks are rare. Utility companies use advanced infrastructure, monitoring, and other safety measures to prevent leaks and respond quickly if they happen. In the U.S., all gas-related fires come to about 190 deaths per year. Electrical fires, on the other hand, account for about 390 deaths annually, more than twice the amount.
Myth 7: Natural gas isn't as green as electricity.
Reality: Most of the electricity in the U.S. is actually generated from natural gas. While there are greener ways to produce electricity like solar power, the technology isn't currently good enough to meet today's energy demands. Until that happens, natural gas offers perhaps the cleanest, most efficient way for the world to create energy.
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