Tips & Resources
Furnace VS Boiler - Which is the Better Option?
As a Colorado resident, you know how important it is to keep your home warm. This article will walk you through the pros and cons of using radiant heat from a boiler vs blowing hot air throughout your vents using a furnace, the difference in cost, which option is more energy efficient, and how both systems operate.
- How each system works
- Upfront Cost VS Utility cost
- Required Maintenance
- Possible Conflicts
Which system is right for you?
Simply put, it depends.Â
Your priorities and budget play a major role when deciding which system is right for you.
If you’re looking for an energy-efficient way that requires as little maintenance as possible, a natural gas furnace is a great option. It heats your home quickly and efficiently, saving you money on your energy costs over time. If you’re looking for a system for a smaller space, such as a studio or 1-bedroom unit, a boiler may be right for you.
Key Differences
A furnace uses gas (or oil) to heat your home, whereas a boiler uses water, or steam, via heat transfer.
Your HVAC system plays a major role in keeping your home energy efficient and reliably warm, two things that are especially important when living in Colorado (we love our unpredictable weather swings!)Â
Furnaces require a yearly tune up to ensure peak efficiency and lifespan. However, boilers are at higher risk for water leaks and frozen pipes due to the use of water via heat transfer.
Furnaces improve your indoor air quality, therefor overall personal health, but they require ductwork. Boilers require no ductwork, but this also means they cannot condition/ improve your indoor air quality.
Boilers tend to be quieter than furnaces, but are slower to make an impact on the indoor air temperature.
We’ve put together a concise summary of the pro’s and cons below, as well as a direct comparison when it comes to upkeep, cost, and efficiency:Â
