What is a disadvantage of electric resistance heating?

The identified disadvantage of electric resistance heating relates to its operating costs, particularly in colder climates. Electric resistance heating operates by converting electricity directly into heat, which can lead to significantly higher energy bills, especially when external temperatures drop and heating demands rise.

In colder regions, the efficiency of electric systems diminishes compared to more cost-effective heating sources like natural gas. Natural gas heating typically has lower fuel costs and can provide heat more efficiently in these conditions, making it a more economical choice over time.

The other aspects, such as installation costs and maintenance requirements, may not present the same significant disadvantages when considering the overall life cycle cost and operational efficiency in colder climates. Electric resistance heating may have lower initial installation costs, but that advantage may be offset by higher energy expenses in usage. Similarly, while maintenance is generally lower for electric systems, the operational cost impact is paramount in these scenarios.