The Differences Between a Furnace and a Boiler

Writer • Jan 25, 2018

With the warm summer weather now far behind us, the focus has shifted to heating your home and making sure that your system is efficient enough to keep you and your family comfortable all winter. If you are in need of a new heating system this winter but have experienced difficulty deciding which option is best for your house, understanding what your options are and identifying the key differences between them can help you make your final decision.

Your local furnace repair service in Kalamazoo, MI is here to help you recognize the differences between furnaces and boilers so that you will be able to make the most informed decision about what is needed for your home.

Furnace heating systems

A furnace heats air within the unit, and then uses a blower motor to distribute this warm air throughout your home. This heated air travels through a system of ducts that is installed in the walls of your home, and is then pushed out through vents to heat individual rooms. One of the benefits of a furnace heating system is that the very same ductwork that is used during the winter for heating can seamlessly be transitioned for use in the summer time to cool your house as well. Furnace heating systems also cost less than boilers, and when properly maintained, can last up to 25 years. Newer high-efficiency furnace units boast improved fuel and electric capabilities that can reduce your energy bills, and can actually improve the air quality in your home as well.

Boiler heating systems

The most significant difference between a furnace and a boiler is that the latter uses water instead of air to distribute heat to your home. Hot water is sent through a network of pipes to deliver heat to baseboards, radiators or radiant flooring systems, and provides uniform, consistent temperatures. A boiler can be powered with gas, oil, electricity and even wood pellets. Unlike with furnaces, there will be no air flowing through ducts and vents with a boiler system, which means that the warmth in your house won’t be drafty, and there will likely be less dust and allergens in the air as well. Boiler systems cost more upon installation, but cast iron boilers can last for some time while needing only minor maintenance along the way.

There are many factors that can affect what type of system will be best for your home, including the architecture of your house and the design of the system that is already in place. If you need the help of a furnace repair service in Kalamazoo, MI to determine the most efficient heating choice for your home, contact the team at All Brands Heating and Cooling. We have been making sure homeowners have the right system installed in their homes for more than 25 years, and we want to help make sure that you and your family aren’t left out in the cold this winter. Give us a call to schedule your appointment right away.

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