There are different types of heating systems in buildings. The two most commonly used systems are boilers and furnaces. While both provide heated air to keep you comfortable and protected from the outdoor temperatures, they are quite different in how they operate.
In this blog, we compare boilers and furnaces to understand how they work, their pros and cons, and key considerations for choosing the right heating system for your needs.
How Boilers Work
In a boiler, the thermostat senses a drop in temperature and activates the boiler. The boiler heats water, and the hot water or steam gets circulated through piping and radiator circuits. Once cooled, the hot water or steam converts back to water. This process is repeated continuously until the desired room temperature is reached. Different boilers use a specific fuel type to perform this process. The most commonly used fuel is oil and gas.
How Furnaces Work
The heating cycle of the furnace starts when the temperature drops below the set thermostat settings. While modern furnaces use an electronic ignition system, other models use a standing pilot. Once the burner is ignited, the fuel is added to the combustion chamber, allowing the burner to heat air. A heat exchanger and blower fan distribute warm air from the furnace through the air duct system into the rooms. The exhaust gasses are vented out through a chimney or other outlets.
Comparison of Boiler and Furnace Fuel Sources
Boilers heat water, while furnaces heat air. However, the differences are far more complex than that. Boilers and furnaces can use oil, natural gas, wood, propane, and other types of fuel sources depending on the type of system. Each fuel has its advantages and disadvantages, including cost and availability, so you must consider what is feasible for you.
If you are getting a new furnace or boiler heating system, you also need to consider the fuel type to ensure it suits your needs. Generally, electricity and natural gas are the two most commonly used fuels for heating systems, but this could be different based on where you live, the type of system you have, and other factors.
Pros and Cons of Boilers
One of the key advantages of boilers is their efficiency. As boilers offer even heat distribution, they generally offer better annual fuel utilization efficiency. The even distribution means there won’t be any cold spots in your rooms. This advantage makes boilers ideal for large spaces. You can also choose to integrate the boiler with zoning systems, so you can only heat certain spaces of your property.
Another key advantage of boilers is their longevity. With proper boiler maintenance, you can expect many years of service. A boiler heats without using forced air, so it tends to require less month-to-month maintenance than a furnace.
The downside to having a boiler system is that the initial installation costs can be slightly more compared to other heating systems. However, you get excellent value for money as boilers tend to last longer than most systems. A disadvantage of some boiler systems is that they can have a slower response time, so may take some time to respond to temperature changes.
Pros and Cons of Furnaces
Furnaces have relatively lower initial costs for installation. However, this depends on the type of furnace and other factors. You also get quicker response times if you live in regions with fluctuating temperatures. Another advantage of furnaces is that they can be fueled with a wide range of energy sources, offering more flexibility to property owners.
The disadvantage of furnaces is that they can have issues with efficiency. However, if you get regular furnace maintenance, you can achieve higher energy efficiency. In some cases, furnaces can lead to hot air distribution. As the furnace heats air, that air must pass through the air filter and the vents. Any blockages can cause issues.
Installation and Maintenance Requirements For Furnace vs Boiler
Allows us to guide you in choosing the right system. At New York Boiler, Inc., we have a track record of delivering outstanding boiler and furnace services for over 60 years.
To learn more about the difference between a boiler and a furnace and to choose the right forced air systems, Contact New York Boiler, Inc. We offer a full range of boiler services, including professional boiler installation services.