No. Gas is priced per hundred cubic feet; electricity is priced per kilowatt hour. In order to accurately compare them, you must convert both to British thermal units (BTUs), which is the available energy produced by each energy source. In a BTU comparison, natural gas costs approximately one third less.

Absolutely. Natural gas is the most efficient energy source for all heat-producing energy applications. A gas hot water heater, for example, produces over twice as much hot water per dollar as an electric hot water heater. A gas furnace produces warmer air, reducing the amount of time that your system has to run to warm your home. With a gas dryer, you can dry more than twice as many loads per dollar as an electric dryer -- and gas heat is gentler on fabrics.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that is a by-product of incomplete combustion (burning) of any carbon-based fuel such as wood, fuel oil, charcoal, kerosene, gasoline or natural gas. It is produced by forest fires, cigarettes, auto emissions, lawnmower exhaust, paint strippers, fireplaces and many other sources.

Carbon monoxide, when inhaled, is more readily absorbed into the bloodstream than oxygen. It displaces oxygen in the bloodstream, thereby cutting off the supply of oxygen to body tissues. Flu-like symptoms of poisoning occur at a CO level of 15 percent in the oxygen-carrying part of the blood. Death can occur at a level of 50 percent or higher.

Carbon monoxide can be produced when a gas-burning appliance is improperly adjusted or vented.

It's easy! Have your gas appliances inspected by a licensed contractor annually to ensure proper operation and venting. For added security, you can purchase an affordable, easy-to-install CO monitor.