Understanding The Differences Between A Boiler And A Furnace
It is a common misconception that furnaces and boilers are the same things as these terms are used interchangeably by many homeowners. However, while a boiler vs. furnace, two very different types of HVAC equipment, do have a fairly similar function, the manner in which they operate couldn’t be more different.
As a discerning homeowner, you will need to choose which of these two devices will serve your home’s needs the best. For this reason, here are some of the considerable differences you should consider when choosing a furnace or boiler system for their specific advantages.
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Differences Between Boiler Heating Systems And Forced- Air Furnaces
To shed some light on what could otherwise be a difficult decision, here are some of the things you have to know about these two heating options.
The boiler is a large enclosed container that contains a special liquid, typically water, that will be heated so the vapor can be used as the primary component for the heating system. The steam or vapor generated by the boiler will distribute the heat throughout the heating system and the home.
The use of water or another liquid for heating up the home is called the radiator system. In addition to the boiler itself, there are some other components of the boiler system. There are also radiator units located at strategic locations throughout the home connected by a piping system and the circulator pump that passes the heat through the system.
What Is A Furnace?
The furnace is also used to heat the building except that it relies on heated air to keep the home warm. The furnace is used to warm the air that will be passed from room to room. This has also been referred to as the “forced-air heating system” because the cool air in the home is pushed (forced) through the heat exchanger where it will be warmed and returned to the interior through the HVAC duct system.
There are 3 important types of furnaces to know about categorized by their functional orientation. These are horizontal, upflow, and downflow options. The furnace can be fueled by electricity, gas, or oil.
(978) 717-0490">Call Today: (978) 717-0490What Are The Most Important Differences Between A Boiler And A Furnace?
The biggest difference between a boiler and a furnace is the way they operate. The boiler works by “boiling” water that is stored within a thermal tank that will keep it warm and distribute this warmth through the home. The hot water is passed through a system of water pipes that will direct the heated water to the radiators that will keep the home warm. As long as the steam or hot water is flowing, the home will be suitably heated.
A furnace heater is a bit different and requires a heat exchange to function properly. Instead of a fluid that is used to keep the home warm, the cool air from the home is sucked into the furnace, heated, and circulated through the home via a duct system. This circulation is accomplished with the use of a blower motor that keeps the air flowing through the vents.
Boiler Vs. Furnace: Energy-Efficiency
As we remember from high-school physics, it takes more energy to heat a gas than a liquid. Therefore, a furnace will consume considerably more fuel than a boiler system. Then a boiler may be slightly more expensive than a furnace but can be expected to last considerably longer than a furnace as well. But this also depends on the quality and frequency of heater maintenance and services provided to the unit.
Boiler: Pros And Cons
Boiler Pros
- Efficiency: The boiler will use less fuel to provide more heat. This means your cost of energy will be lower in the long run.
- Less Noise: The boiler does not require a blower that will circulate the heat through the home. Therefore, the level of noise is much reduced.
- Heat Consistency: The heat provided by a boiler is more consistent than heated air.
- Air Quality: Because a boiler is not pushing heated air around the house, you will not have to be concerned about airborne contaminants.
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Boiler Cons
- Heat Only: The boiler can keep your home warm in the cold, but when summer comes around you will need the furnace system which can be used to provide cool air circulation as well.
- Boiler Installation: Boilers take more time, resources, and effort to install.
- Slow To Adjust Heating Temperature Changes: You will have to wait a bit before the adjustments made to the temperature of your home are applied.
- Boiler Leak Hazard: As they age, the boiler will be more susceptible to a variety of potentially destructive errors. Water can begin to leak in unseen places and wreak damage to the interior structures of the home.
- Difficult Conversion: If you hope to make a change, it will be especially difficult to have a furnace system installed. The necessary ductwork can be an especially big problem
Furnace: Pros And Cons
Furnace Pros
- Flexibility: A furnace can be fueled by gas, combustion, oil, or electricity, there are even more advanced options that can be operated on solar power or geothermal energy — but these options are less than common.
- Fast-Acting: Furnaces will heat the home quickly because the generation of heat occurs more rapidly.
- Cost: Because they are common and there are more units available, the furnace is a cost-effective option for most homeowners.
- Leaks: If your furnace or duct system begins to leak, you will suffer decreased efficiency, but it will only be the air that is leaking, not water.
- Zero Freezing Hazard: In especially cold regions, a boiler may freeze over and the expanding ice can seriously damage the system. Of course, air will not freeze and therefore, this problem can be effectively avoided.
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Furnace Cons
- Noise: Because they require a blower, the furnace may be a noisier option. This may or may not be a problem for you. Furnace blowers produce a sound when they move air for distribution. Every time a furnace is turned on, it will make a noise.
- Heat Consistency: Heated air does not have the same type of consistent warmth that you can expect from a boiler and heated water. This can lead to some rooms feeling much colder than others.
- Air Quality: If the air filters and duct systems are not regularly cleaned, the problem of poor air quality will be greater.
Read Our Reviews Conclusion
In the end, the choice between these two heating options will come down to what works for you in your specific situation. If you are not sure how to make this choice, call up the experts at Townsend Energy. Your heating professional will help you make the best choice for you.
Call Townsend Energy For All Of Your Home Heating Needs
Townsend Energy is the leading expert for heating and cooling services in the area. We have professionally certified and licensed technicians equipped with the knowledge and experience to resolve all HVAC problems you have. Our friendly techs prioritize your home comfort and efficiency at all times. Our company offers affordable HVAC rates. Your satisfaction with our work is important so we back all our services with a guarantee. Do not hesitate to contact Townsend Energy and schedule a free, in-home estimate today.
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Boiler Vs. Furnace: What You Need To Know
Signs Your Heat Exchanger May Be Cracked On Your Gas Furnace
The heating system is vital in keeping your home safe and warm during the winter season. Therefore, it is recommended that your heating system receives annual maintenance to ensure that it is in excellent condition for a long time. An HVAC tune-up will prevent problems, such as a cracked heat exchanger.
If this particular problem happens, there are some telltale signs that you can look out for. Read on to learn more about a heat exchanger, its importance, and how to identify a cracked heat exchanger.
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What Is A Heat Exchanger?
The heat exchanger is vital in the heating and cooling process. It is where heat is transferred between fluids to heat or cool your home. If you have a heater, this component heats the air that is circulated via the venting system. The gas increases the temperature inside the heat exchanger so that the temperature of the air also increases. Naturally, if the heat exchanger malfunctions, your furnace’s operation is affected as well.
Symptoms Of A Cracked Heat Exchanger
Flame Looks Different: The flame of a gas furnace is typically blue with a yellow tip. However, if it has turned predominantly yellow, then there might be a few issues. The burner might be dirty and needs to be cleaned. It could also be due to a cracked heat exchanger. Check the flame to see if it burns steadily. If you see it flickering, then it is likely experiencing an issue.
Soot: Carbon buildup inside your furnace can result in soot. When the fuel does not burn cleanly and completely, it might be because of an improperly adjusted burner or a cracked heat exchanger.
Corrosion And Cracks: Check the outer parts of your heating unit for any cracks and rust. Any physical problems with your heater’s external components could also point to damaged internal components.
Unusual Smells: If you have a cracked heat exchanger, it will release an unpleasant formaldehyde-like smell. It can have repercussions on your health and cause severe headaches. Therefore, call a professional HVAC technician immediately to repair your system.
Health Issues: A cracked heat exchanger can release carbon monoxide. It can cause serious health effects, such as nausea, disorientation, eye and nose irritation, and other flu-like symptoms. Prolonged exposure can be fatal, so have your cracked heat exchanger repaired immediately.
Cracked Heat Exchanger: What You Need To Know
Why You Should Call A Professional For Your Furnace Repair
Having your furnace break down is the last thing that you want to deal with during the coldest part of winter. Although heating systems are usually quite durable, this equipment invariably starts showing problems as it ages. Regular use is guaranteed to produce ongoing wear. If your home heating system isn’t being regularly inspected and maintained, you might notice problems forming early on.
Some homeowners attempt to use DIY repair strategies to take care of their furnace problems on their own, or they may even outsource this work to a friendly handyman. This can lead to additional issues. Find out why contacting a professional furnace repair company to fix your home heating equipment is always the best and most cost-effective choice.
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When Is It Time To Contact A Licensed HVAC Repair Service?
We’re going to share a few signs that you should watch out for that indicate a need for professional furnace repair services.
A Furnace That Starts Overheating
When your home furnace overheats, you want to find out whether or not your furnace filter is clogged. Like all HVAC equipment, a furnace will gradually accumulate dirt, dust, and other indoor air particulates via its air filtration system. When the furnace filter becomes clogged with dirt, this equipment cannot provide good airflow. As such, the furnace has to do more work to create the desired temperature indoors.
Problems with overheating can cause heat exchanger damages – which is one of the most expensive furnace components to repair. By regularly cleaning or replacing the air filter in your furnace, you can sidestep problems with the heat exchanger and stave issues with overheating off.
(978) 717-0490">Call Today: (978) 717-0490The Thermostat Is Malfunctioning
Thermostats display the current temperature that the furnace has generated. Issues at the thermostat are among the most common indicators of furnace problems. If you’re having an issue with heat, confirm that thermostat setting. This should be set to “HEAT” and turned on. You also want to ensure that the fan is set at “AUTO”. Be sure to additionally verify that the temperature setting is accurate.
If you think that the thermostat is reading the temperature incorrectly, check to see if it’s covered in dust or dirt. An Old thermostat that hasn’t been properly maintained is likely to display an incorrect temperature. Shut the thermostat off and then clear off all debris with a clean, dry brush. If you notice areas of corrosion, apply a contact cleaner that’s been specially formulated for electronics to get rid of any rust deposits. Always make sure that your thermostat is away from heat sources including your stove, sunlight, and any appliances that produce significant amounts of heat.
Damages To Your HVAC Ductwork
Damaged ductwork is another reason why your furnace might stop working as it should. Warm air generated by your furnace is disbursed throughout the home via ducts. If the ducts have a gap, crack, or any other damage, this warm air will escape. As a result, you may have temperature fluctuations throughout the building along with lower furnace efficiency. When damages to ductwork are extensive, it may be impossible for your furnace to heat your home at all.
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The Dangers Of A Faulty Gas-Fired Furnace
Gas leaks are the most common problems with furnaces that are gas-fire. They are also the most dangerous issue that you can face when dealing with this particular type of heating equipment. Gas escaping from your heating system can be toxic to any humans and pets within the building. Carbon monoxide and methane gases can cause severe health problems and if exposure is prolonged, these gases may prove fatal.
Hazardous gases along with the risk of electric shock, fire, and explosion are among the many reasons why no major furnace repair should be a DIY project. HVAC professionals have the necessary training for properly inspecting and handling home heating equipment, and they are also far more capable of correctly and safely performing any necessary furnace repair work.
What A Professional HVAC Company Can Do For You
Following, we’re going to share some of the benefits that you can gain by hiring a licensed HVAC professional to take care of your furnace repair.
You’ll Save More Money
Professional HVAC companies have the ability to inspect your furnace and diagnose any problems that it’s having correctly. Moreover, these professionals can take care of your repair in a safe and efficient fashion. They’ll verify that any repairs or replacements performed are in line with the type of heating system you own. If the workmanship is shoddy or if the repair is incorrect, such as it might be if you let an unlicensed individual do the work, you’ll have a damaged furnace on your hands. As such, you’ll wind up shelling out more money for additional replacements and repairs.
Your Home Will Be More Secure
Safe repairs are absolutely essential for ensuring the overall safety of your property. If the wrong component is put in or if another error is made, building residents may suffer physical harm from an explosion, a gas emission, or a fire. If your furnace system has a problem, always have a licensed professional take care of it.
(978) 717-0490">Call To Make An AppointmentThe Work Will Be Completed Quickly
Licensed HVAC technicians adhere to a set of procedures for identifying and fixing problems. This allows them to find and fix issues in seemingly no time at all. You won’t have to deal with the inconvenience of hiring someone who doesn’t know how to solve the problem correctly.
Assured Skills
The warranty on your HVAC system requires you to hire a licensed HVAC contractor for each and every repair. Likewise, your warranty requires you to hire an HVAC company for furnace maintenance every year as well. Thus, hiring a reputable and experienced HVAC contractor is key for ensuring that your warranty stays intact. If you or anyone else who lacks the proper certification attempts to complete your furnace repair, your warranty will no longer be valid. Furthermore, reputable HVAC companies always stand behind the work they perform by issuing solid guarantees.
To Conclude:
Having a malfunctioning furnace is inconvenient and this makes it pointless to have it repaired by someone who lacks the right training. Prevent serious heating system damage and cut your overall repair or replacement costs by hiring a trusted HVAC company in your area. They can help you with your home furnace issues by offering the most needs-specific solutions for keeping your home warm, comfortable, and absolutely winter-ready.
For Your HVAC Requirements, Contact Townsend Energy
New England residents can always turn to Townsend Energy for superior heating and cooling services. We keep the best technicians on our team who have the certification and training for handling HVAC repair and replacement projects, tune-ups, and more. Our technicians are knowledgeable and highly seasoned, and they can get the job done right.
Townsend Energy has a long-standing reputation for offering the most competitive HVAC service prices in the region. Our maintenance team can increase the energy-efficiency and comfort of your home while lowering your heating and cooling costs. When you’re ready to upgrade your HVAC system, we’ll help you find the perfect model at a reasonable price. Our work always comes with a satisfaction guarantee. Get a free, in-home estimate or set up an appointment for furnace service by calling Townsend Energy today.
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Why Hire A Furnace Repair Company?
