Boilers and furnaces aim to do the same thing — provide heat to your home. Some homes have boilers while others have furnaces. Although these two produce the same result of heating your home, they vary greatly in how they do this. More so, their maintenance requirements and the different dangers they may cause differ as well.
The Main Difference
Boilers use hot water and the steam they produce through this hot water to heat your home. On the other hand, furnaces use circulating warm air to heat your home.
How they work
Boiler systems are powered by the use of oil, natural gas, electricity, and even wood pellets. Water is heated to very high temperatures and is then managed by a special pump to channel heat to cast iron radiators, radiant flooring systems, or baseboard radiators in your home. When there is a lack of blower, radiantly heated air which comes from a boiler system becomes a more comfortable option in your home.
In contrast, furnace systems run on propane, natural gas, or electricity. The furnace heats up the air that is pushed using a blower through the ductwork in your home. This results in a high level of ambient temperature. However, the air can be uncomfortable due to its dryness.
Maintenance
Comparing the two heating system’s maintenance requirements may show you that the boiler system is at a vantage point in this aspect as it requires little to no maintenance. Boilers are only required an annual service tune-up which is done by an expert. Contrarily, furnaces require more maintenance processes more than you know and it can become tedious to maintain a furnace. More than the annual check-up, you are also required to change the air filter monthly or quarterly. In cases where you live with pets or dusty areas, you may want to change it more often. Not only is this labour-intensive, but air filters will also add to your monthly expenses. Both natural gases used in a furnace and a boiler must be inspected by a professional.
The Edge of each Heating System
In terms of cost-effectivity, furnaces cost less than boilers and take less time to install. More so, furnaces are less exposed to the risk of freezing during winter. However, the boiler system presents more advantages as the heat produced by the steam from hot water is more comfortable and more energy-efficient. More so, it is less noisy than the furnace while also producing a better quality of air. Air from the boiler system is healthier as it does not require any ductwork in your house. Ductwork can be a source of dust and dander which can be a crucial factor for a family with allergies. Lastly, the heated water from a boiler can be reused.
You may be deciding on replacing an old boiler with a furnace or a new boiler. Given the pros and cons of both heating systems, it can be seen that a boiler is the better option. However, it can vary depending on your conditions and needs.