Table of Contents
When it comes to heating systems, the terms “furnace” and “boiler” are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion about their distinctions. Understanding the differences between these two heating systems is crucial for homeowners, renters, and anyone seeking to make informed decisions about their heating needs.
From how they generate heat to the fuel sources they utilize, furnaces and boilers have unique characteristics that set them apart. In this article, we will discover the major difference between boilers and furnaces, their working principles, main fuel sources, pros and cons, and unit prices.
Working Principle of a Boiler
The working principle of a boiler is similar to boiling water for tea. The unit heats water using a fuel source, mainly natural gas or oil. The heated water is then circulated and used as hot water in pipelines or steam. It is distributed through different pipelines to provide warmth or power to different areas or processes. The boiler’s controls help to maintain the desired temperature and pressure while the exhaust system removes waste gases. We will discover the difference between a boiler and furnace further in the following paragraph.
Working Principle of a Furnace
In simple terms, a furnace uses fuel to create heat. The most popular energy sources are natural gas, electricity, propane, or solar energy. All of them are used to warm up the air in a building, which is further distributed through vents around the house. The heating process is controlled by a thermostat, which turns the furnace on and off to maintain the desired temperature.
Statistics Canada says that Canadians mostly choose furnaces in the boiler vs furnace battle. In 2021, 51% of households owned a forced air furnace, while only 8% had boilers with hot steam or water radiators.
Cost of Boiler vs Furnace
The most interesting topic for all buyers is the prices of a boiler and furnace. A new boiler unit will cost around $1,200 – $5,000+ without installation. With professional services from a licensed team, you will pay on average $3,500 to $10,000+ for a combi boiler and $5,000 – $10,000+ for a conventional boiler.
The average furnace cost starts at $4,000 with installation included. It is important to mention that prices may be lower or higher, depending on several factors, including the following:
- Size of your home. Add at least 20 BTUs to each square foot of your apartment.
- Level of efficiency. It is measured in Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). The higher these numbers are, the less fuel your unit uses to heat the apartment.
- Fuel type. The most expensive boilers run on natural gas, oil, or wood, while the most costly furnaces use natural gas or propane. Their prices start from $4,000, including installation.
If you want to receive precise calculations for your case, schedule a free in-home assessment from the HVAC Service Solutions via the link below:
Furnace vs Boiler Efficiency
Furnace vs boiler efficiency is one of the major features to consider before buying. Mid-efficient units cover the range of 80%-88% AFUE, while high-efficiency have from 90% to 98.5%.
The higher the rates are, the less energy your equipment will use to produce heat. If your unit has 80% of efficiency, it will convert 80% of fuel into heat. The 20% are lost. Let’s compare the system’s efficiency, depending on the fuel source.
Fuel Source | Boiler AFUE | Furnace AFUE |
|---|---|---|
Wood | 40% – 90% | 40% – 90% |
Oil | 87% – 91% | 85% – 96.7% |
Propane | 90% – 97% | 91.2% – 99% |
Natural Gas | 90% – 97% | 91.2% – 99% |
Electricity | 99% – 100% | 99% – 100% |
The data is based on the US DOE Energy Star pages for boilers and furnaces.
Note that both boilers and furnaces should be maintained at least once a year. In that case, the AFUE rates will remain high, and the system will work efficiently during its lifespan.
If you want to get your units checked, order professional services from HVAC Service Solutions via the link below.
Boiler vs. Furnace Monthly Cost
The monthly cost of operating a furnace vs boiler can vary depending on several factors, including the energy source, system efficiency, insulation of the building, climate, and individual usage patterns.
Note that high-efficiency boilers and furnaces will have lower monthly operating costs due to their ability to extract more heat from the fuel. It’s recommended to consider the specific characteristics of your building and consult with local HVAC contractors to obtain more accurate cost estimates based on your location and energy prices.
You can schedule a visit from the HVAC Service Solutions expert in 60+ service areas. Follow the link to find the nearest place:
What's the Difference Between a Furnace and a Boiler
The main difference between a furnace and boiler is their working principle. A furnace heats the air directly and circulates it through ductwork, while a boiler heats water or produces steam, which is then distributed through pipes to radiators or other heat emitters. Some of the other differences are added to the table below.
Boiler | Furnace | |
|---|---|---|
AFUE | 80%+ | 80%+ |
System Lifespan | 20 – 30 years | 15 – 25 years |
Fuel Source | Natural gas, oil, propane, biomass (such as wood pellets), electricity | Natural gas, oil, propane, electricity
|
Heating | Radiant, requires a separate cooling system
| Forced, combined with a central system
|
Heating | $3,500 – $10,000+ | $3,000 – $6,500+ |
Pros and Cons of Furnace
Furnace Pros | Furnace Cons |
|---|---|
Low prices | Low efficiency |
Reduced leak or freezing hazard | High noise levels |
Easy installation | Reduced heat consistency |
Connected to the central system | Low indoor air quality
|
Pros and Cons of Boiler
Boiler Pros | Boiler Cons |
|---|---|
High energy efficiency | Complicated installation |
Consistent heat | Leaking or freezing hazard |
Low noise levels | Delayed heating response |
Less maintenance | Big space requirements |
High indoor air quality | High installation costs |
If you want to learn which is better: a boiler or a furnace for your house, contact our HVAC Service experts via the link below. They will consider all technical characteristics and your personal preferences to find the perfect solution.
Conclusion
If you are still contemplating which is best for your house, a boiler or furnace, we are here to help. The HVAC Service Solutions works in 60+ service areas around Canada to provide the desired services on the same day.
Follow the link to hire a certified HVAC contractor at any time of the day:
Share
