Boiler vs. Furnace: What’s the difference

Boiler vs. Furnace: What’s the difference

When the outside temperature drops, you need a reliable heating system to stay warm and safe. Boilers and furnaces are the two most popular options for home heating. Both serve the same purpose, but they work in different ways and come with their own pros and cons. So, what’s the difference between furnace and boiler? And what’s the best option for your home? Read on to learn everything you need about these two heating systems.

How boilers work

A boiler heats water to generate either hot water or steam. Then, it is circulated through a system of pipes to provide warmth. This method provides even, consistent heating throughout a home. There are two main types of boilers:

  • Steam boilers heat water to create steam, which passes through pipes to radiators. When the steam cools and condenses back into water, it returns to the boiler for reheating.
  • Hot water boilers circulate heated water through pipes to radiators or baseboard heaters. When the water cools down, it also returns to be reheated.

Boilers are quiet and distribute the heat evenly. They are great if you want to avoid drafts or fluctuating temperatures.

How furnaces work

A furnace heats air and distributes it through ducts and vents. The warm air is pushed into different rooms – it provides fast and effective heating. Furnaces can be powered by natural gas, electricity or oil, but gas is the most popular option.

Homeowners choose furnaces because they can heat homes quickly. They are often used together with central air conditioning systems if you need both heating and cooling.

Boilers vs. furnaces – key differences

Feature Boilers Furnaces
Heat distribution Uses water or steam for even warmth. Uses air, which sometimes can lead to uneven heating and drafts
Energy efficiency Quite efficient since water keeps heat better than air. Can lose heat through ductwork, especially if there is no insulation.
Installation and maintenance Can be difficult and expensive to install but require less maintenance. Easier to install in newer homes but need more attention.
Indoor air quality Does not circulate dust, making it better for people with allergies. Can spread dust and allergens, affecting air quality.

Boiler vs. furnace monthly cost

Are you curious about what heating system is more affordable? Boiler-furnace cost in Canada depend on several things. These are the energy source, system efficiency, insulation, and your climate. In general, gas furnaces roughly cost between $50 and $150 per month, and boilers are from $80 to $200 per month. These costs are also influenced by the size of your home, the type of system you have, and how much you use your heating system.

High-efficiency models extract more heat from the fuel and allow you to lower your monthly costs. In general, furnaces are cheaper, especially since they heat homes quickly, but they may lose some warmth through the ducts. On the other hand, boilers provide a more consistent, even heat but be ready for higher boiler heating system cost.

Talk to a local HVAC expert for a more accurate estimate tailored to your home. Professionals will assess your heating needs immediately and offer the optimal solution.

Which system is right for you?

Many homeowners hesitate whether to install a boiler or a furnace. Consider these factors to better understand which system is more appropriate for your home.   

Climate. If you live in a colder climate, it is advisable to get a boiler. Boilers provide steady, even heat throughout your home and are ideal for long, harsh winters. If you are in a milder climate, a furnace will cope with heating excellently. Furnaces heat up quickly and maintain comfortable temperatures in less severe weather.

Home size. Boilers work well in smaller homes or those that already have radiators. A furnace may be the better choice if your home is larger or already has ductwork. It will heat a bigger space efficiently and quickly distribute warm air throughout the house.

Budget. Boiler replacement cost Canada can be higher at the start because of the installation of pipes and radiators. However, then their performance is more energy-efficient. They will help you save money on heating. Furnaces are cheaper to install but may cost more to run, especially if you live in a place with extreme winter temperatures.

Technical conditions. If your home already has ductwork in place, a furnace will be the easier and cheaper option to install. However, if you have radiators or are willing to make a more significant investment in your system, a boiler might be the way to go.

Wrapping up

You will effectively warm your home with either a boiler or a furnace. However, they have their own distinct advantages and disadvantages. So, the right choice depends on your home’s size, local climate, and budget. Consult with an HVAC expert to see which system will be the best for your space. With the right system, you can enjoy a warm, comfortable home throughout the winter and even optimize heating costs. At Panda Home Comfort, we provide consultations on all types of HVAC equipment and offer high-quality installation services. We also provide a wide range of HVAC repairs of all brands and makes. If you need more details on residential boiler prices Canada, give us a call!