Reading about your heating system may not be the most thrilling activity (and while we love HVAC, it doesn’t mean everyone does). However, understanding the difference between a boiler and furnace and how your home heating system works, especially during the harsh Minnesota winters, is a key component of being a homeowner. Believe it or not, there are several differences between the two most popular heating systems: boilers and furnaces.
Understanding the differences between boilers and furnaces can actually save you money. Whether you already have one installed in your home or are searching for new options, it’s good to know the pros and cons of each. So let’s dive into the difference between boilers and furnaces and investigate which option is best for you.
What is a boiler, and how does it work?
The most important takeaway from this blog is this: Boilers heat water, while furnaces heat air. A boiler is a heating system that uses water or steam to heat your home. Boiler heating systems can be powered by several fuel or power sources, including gas, oil, electricity, or alternative fuels. However, most are gas boilers. Boilers heat water to high temperatures and push the steam through pipes with turbines. Then, this steam is dispersed throughout the home by radiators or directly in the walls and flooring.
What is a furnace, and how does it work?
A furnace is a heating system that heats air and disperses it throughout air ducts. Furnaces can also be powered by several methods, including natural gas, propane, or electricity. Fuel is burned in the furnace’s burner to generate heat that is passed through the heat exchanger. Instead of heating water, furnace heating directly warms the air above the heat exchanger. Then this hot air is pushed out through vents by a blower.
Pros and cons of owning a boiler.
One benefit of owning a boiler is how little maintenance it requires. Typically, boiler owners should expect to call a local HVAC company for upkeep once a year. This will help the heating system last longer and stay efficient. Additionally, boilers are appreciated by many owners for providing comfortable air all year round. The steam allows heat to disperse efficiently throughout the home with minimal duct loss.
While there are several advantages to owning a boiler, one disadvantage is the high installation cost. While they are more durable and long-lasting than furnaces, there is a possibility of freezing pipes during a power outage. Because boilers use water to heat the home, this water may freeze and cause damage to the pipes in an extended electricity blackout.
Pros and cons of owning a furnace.
Furnaces are an additional heating option available to homeowners. Not only are they cheaper to install, but they are also cheaper to maintain compared to boilers. While boiler checkups and cleanings can rack up several various costs, an annual furnace checkup only costs a couple of hundred dollars. Furnace heating is by far the most economical option.
However, there are a few disadvantages to owning a furnace. First, because furnaces directly heat the air, they also circulate the air from the vents. This means that allergens such as dust and dander may be swept into the air and cause allergic reactions. Plus, while the installation and maintenance costs are low, upkeep is far more frequent for a furnace. Therefore, it’s recommended that air filters are changed several times a year, depending on the type of filter.
What’s the difference between gas and electric furnaces?
Choices are aplenty when it comes to heating your home. Not only can you choose between a boiler or furnace, but you can choose between several types of furnaces. The most common types of furnaces are gas or electric. Gas furnaces can be an excellent choice for homeowners looking to save money, as natural gas is affordable. Plus, they are incredibly efficient at reaching high temperatures quickly, making them a great way to stay warm on chilled winter nights. However, not all houses have access to a gas line for installation.
Electric furnaces are another option for homeowners. These furnaces are even cheaper to install. Plus, while the cost to run electric furnaces is typically higher, they are far more energy efficient than gas furnaces. Finally, electric furnaces run much quieter than gas furnaces. If the occasional humming of a furnace grinds your gears, an electric furnace will make for a less irritating experience.
Do I have a boiler or a furnace?
While you might hear people use these terms interchangeably, they’re very different heating systems. Understanding which system is installed in your unit is essential for proper maintenance and care. In most situations, determining whether you have a boiler or a furnace is a breeze. You will recognize that you have a boiler heating system by noticing a short tank attached to metal pipeworks in your walls. On the other hand, a furnace will be taller and connected to ductwork that goes all the way up to the ceiling. Of course, when in doubt, a trained technician can help you identify the make and model of your heating system!
Which type of heating is best for me?
The type of heating you choose to install depends on your preferences. While boilers may be ideal for comfort, others will find relief in a furnace’s cheap price tag. Before settling on the most popular heating system to replace your old furnace, it’s best to weigh your options depending on your own needs, such as whether you have allergies or hate noisy environments. No matter your method, you can lean on your local HVAC professionals to answer any questions or concerns that cross your mind.
At Mike’s Custom Mechanical, our goal is to keep Minnesotan families warm this winter. So if your heating system needs an annual checkup, we’re on our way to help. Call us at (763) 568-7148 to learn more about how our team can assist today.
