Furnace or Boiler

The Difference Between a Furnace and a Boiler

Are you wondering what the best heating system for you and your home would be?  We believe that for you to make the best choice, you should understand the differences between the two main options – a boiler and a furnace. 

How are a boiler and a furnace different?

The easiest way to remember the difference between the two is air vs. water. A furnace uses air and a boiler uses water to heat your home. While they both distribute warm air throughout your home, they work in very different ways. 

A furnace heats air and then distributes it via a blower throughout your home’s duct system.  A boiler, on the other hand, uses hot water to heat your home. The boiler uses small hot water pipes leading to baseboards, radiators or radiant systems. Boilers are typically electric, gas or oil run. 

Another difference between the two can be noticed in the maintenance. A furnace will require routine maintenance. This includes changing filters, potentially monthly, since the air is blown throughout your home. This helps keeps down on dust and other allergens. You’ll also want one summer and one winter service check. A boiler can be serviced on an annual basis to ensure efficiency. 

What’s right for you?

You decide which makes more sense for your home. Consider your health and wellness needs. Then, balance that out with budgeting needs. Remember that a furnace uses forced air to circulate heat throughout your house. If you are prone to allergies, then it may not be the best system for you. A boiler system tends to be more expensive. So, if you are on a tight budget it may not be a good fit. 

Call your trusted HVAC tech at Quality Air and Heating to discuss your needs further. We are happy to discuss all your options and help you make the best decision for your home.