The Difference Between Boilers & Furnaces
Written on: December 5, 2022
How to choose the right heating system for comfort and efficiency
We know there are many options out there for home heating. There’s a reason, though, that furnace and boiler systems remain enduringly popular in Long Island’s North and South Shores. Both options offer strong heat that keeps your home warm and, more importantly, your family safe.
When customers ask us the difference between a boiler and a furnace, here’s what we tell them.
How does a boiler system work?
A boiler system does not require ductwork. Boilers use burners to heat water in a tank and transfer either steam or heated water via your home plumbing to radiant flooring systems or radiators. The radiated heat warms your living space. There is no forced air in this system.
How does a furnace system work?
On the other hand, a furnace system — also called a forced-air system — heats air instead of water. Then, the furnace’s blower transfers the heated air through ducts into your home. Furnace systems have vents in your rooms where the hot air comes out.
Boiler vs. Furnace: Which is better?
Both furnaces and boilers have advantages and drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons you should consider when choosing the right heating system for your home.
| Boiler Pros | Boiler Cons |
|---|---|
| The humidified heat a boiler produces is exceptionally comfortable. | Boilers take longer than furnaces to heat a room after switching on. |
| Boilers don’t move air, reducing the spread of airborne toxins and debris. | Boiler systems require more labor and time to install. |
| Boiler systems are generally quieter than forced-air systems. | Unlike furnaces, boilers can leak and cause water damage. |
| Furnace Pros | Furnace Cons |
|---|---|
| Furnaces work more quickly when heating your home. | A forced-air system can circulate toxins and debris. |
| A forced-air system’s ductwork can generally also serve a central air conditioning system. | Forced-air systems are sometimes loud. |
| Furnaces often cost less than boilers to operate. | Force-air systems often dry out the air, leaving a less comfortable living space. |
If your home currently has a boiler system, changing to forced air and doing a furnace installation is typically quite expensive and disruptive. The reverse is also true.
OSI Comfort Specialists is here for your boiler or furnace installation!
The incredible team of technicians at OSI Comfort Specialists can handle just about any furnace or boiler installation. Not only that, we stand behind our work. We’re always available to our customers for service calls and repairs.
You can also take advantage of one of our affordable, comprehensive service plans. This coverage protects you in case of a sudden breakdown and guarantees priority service. In addition, each service plan comes with an annual maintenance tune-up. This yearly maintenance helps your equipment run at its peak efficiency and will catch minor issues before they lead to expensive repairs.
Are you ready to explore your home heating options with one of our team members? Get in touch with us today for a free quote.