What is the Difference Between Furnace and Boiler?

The main difference between a furnace and a boiler lies in how they distribute heat within a home. Here are the key differences:

1. Heat Distribution: Furnaces heat air and distribute it throughout the house using ducts, while boilers heat water and provide either hot water or steam for heating. Steam is distributed via pipes to steam radiators, and hot water can be distributed via baseboard radiators or radiant floor systems, or can heat air via a coil.
2. Fuel Sources: Most modern boilers use natural gas or oil as a fuel source, while furnaces can use natural gas, propane, oil, or electricity.
3. Efficiency: Boilers tend to be more energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan, but they are also more expensive initially. Furnaces, while less energy-efficient, are cheaper to install.
4. Comfort: The radiant heat from a boiler system is considered more comfortable than forced air from a furnace. Boilers are also less noisy and create better air quality inside the home.
5. Ductwork: Furnaces require ductwork to distribute heated air, while boilers do not need ductwork and can use radiators or other systems to distribute heat.

In summary, a furnace heats air and circulates it through ducts, while a boiler heats water or steam and distributes it through pipes or radiators. The choice between a furnace and a boiler depends on factors such as efficiency, cost, comfort, and the existing infrastructure of a home.

Comparative Table: Furnace vs Boiler

Here is a table summarizing the differences between furnaces and boilers:

Furnaces heat and circulate air throughout the house using a blower motor and the home's duct system, while boilers heat water or produce steam, which is then distributed through pipes to radiators or other heat emitters. The main differences between these systems include their heating methods, comfort, indoor air quality, ductwork requirements, maintenance schedules, and energy efficiency.