When the winter months roll around, homeowners across the Granite State rely on their heating systems to keep them warm and comfortable. While many people refer to their heating system as a furnace or use the terms “furnace” and “boiler” interchangeably, the two are different, and it’s important to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each to make an informed decision when it’s time for a replacement. If you are trying to pick out a new heating system for your home, talk with the experts at Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. With over 40 years of experience, they can provide you with all of the information you need to make a smart decision about which is best for your home and your heating needs.
What is the Difference Between a Boiler and a Furnace?
In short, the most significant difference between a furnace and a boiler is that a furnace uses air to transfer heat and a boiler uses water. While both boilers and furnaces will usually last anywhere between 15 to 20 years on average, the costs to install, operate, and maintain these two types of heating equipment are dramatically different. Knowing the difference between the two before you install either one is essential to your comfort and your budget.
Operation
A furnace uses forced hot air pumped through your ductwork to distribute heat. The air is then sent through registers and distributed through air vents in the different rooms of your home. A boiler uses hot water or steam distributed through pipes that connect to radiators or radiant floor systems. Boilers provide a consistent source of heat and since they don’t blow air, they will not spread allergens or dust. Furnaces also work quickly to achieve your desired temperature faster than boilers, and since they do not contain water, there is no risk of the pipes freezing if you have a power outage.
Installation Costs
Now that you know the difference between how furnaces and boilers operate, it’s important to understand that the upfront costs of installing these systems might differ. Furnaces are more common and usually less expensive than boilers, and if you already have existing ductwork in your home, furnace installation typically only takes a few hours. Boilers are generally more efficient in the long run, but usually carry a higher upfront cost of installation.
Maintenance
No matter what heating system you use, regular maintenance is essential to ensure your system is fully functional, reliable and as efficient as it can be throughout the cold winter months. An annual tune-up, performed by a licensed and certified technician, will help keep your boiler or furnace in good working condition and limit wear over time. Waiting for your boiler or furnace to break down is likely to incur unnecessary repair costs.
What is the Right Heating System for my Home?
There are a lot of factors that come into play when you are making a decision that affects all aspects of your home during the winter. That’s why the experts at Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling have made it
their job to provide homeowners with all of the information and options available to make an informed decision about a replacement or new home heating system. Simply put, the right equipment should fit your home, lifestyle, and budget!
About Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling,
Founded over 40 years ago, Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is family-owned and operated by the Daigle family. We are proud to provide quality, dependable plumbing, heating, and cooling services for our customers in Derry, NH, and the surrounding areas. Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is your partner for all of your plumbing, heating, and cooling needs. Call us today at 603-434-6353 for a free estimate.
