Are boilers more efficient than furnaces?

Boilers and furnaces are two of the most common choices for keeping your home warm during the wintertime. That said, a lot of homeowners who are on the market for a new heating system often have the same question: which one is more efficient?

If this is something you’ve wondered yourself, you’ve luckily come to the right place because the team at Mersey Heating and Air Conditioning is going to be settling this debate by giving you inside info on the advantages and disadvantages of both systems, so you can have a better idea which one would be best for your home.

Therefore, if you want to learn more about whether a boiler or furnace is more efficient, keep reading through our comprehensive guide below!

Boiler Experts Available 24/7/365

With 50 years of industry experience, the professional and certified HVAC team at Mersey Heating and Air Conditioning is well-equipped to provide homeowners with expert repairs, maintenance, and installation services on all HVAC systems, including boilers!

Our team is available 24/7/365 days a year, including after-hours, weekends, and holidays, at no additional cost for all repairs and maintenance appointments! Furthermore, if you're in the market for a new system, we would be more than happy to offer you several discounts and financing options so you can save money on your new purchase!

Book a consultation appointment with Mersey Heating and Air Conditioning today to receive a complimentary new system purchase quote from a professional home comfort advisor!

Can I have both a boiler and a furnace?

Certainly! It is possible to have both a boiler and a furnace in your home, which is referred to as a "dual fuel system." This configuration provides adaptability, performance, and a higher level of comfort.

The boiler serves as the basis for radiant heating, which involves distributing hot water through pipes to generate even heat in certain rooms, such as bathrooms or bedrooms. Meanwhile, the furnace provides forced-air heating by quickly heating and sending air throughout the house through ducts and vents.

A control system enables you to quickly and easily switch between the boiler and the furnace based on your heating requirements and the outside temperature. For example, you could use the boiler on mild days and for specific room heating, while the furnace on colder days and for whole-house heating.

Do boilers last longer than furnaces?

When properly maintained, boilers have a longer average lifespan than furnaces. A properly maintained boiler can last 15 to 30 years or even more, though this depends on the overall condition of the boiler itself and the water quality entering the system.

Furnaces, on the other hand, have a slightly lower average lifespan, with an average lifespan between 15 and 20 years. The duration of service of a furnace can also vary depending on things such as the type of furnace, the quality of the system, and the kind of maintenance it receives.

It is important to note that these are standard service lifespans, and individual systems may vary from home to home. Routine maintenance and swift repairs can significantly extend the life of both boilers and furnaces. It is generally suggested that you schedule an annual maintenance appointment from the time you have your new unit installed in your home to ensure your unit lasts as long as possible.

Should I replace my boiler with a furnace?

In truth, a wide range of factors can affect whether or not you choose to replace your boiler with a furnace, including the structure of your house, your heating needs, and your individual preferences. Here are a few things to consider which will help you figure out what is best for you:

Reasons to Replace a Boiler with a Furnace:

·   Furnaces can be easily combined with ducted cooling systems to provide year-round comfort. If your existing ductwork is in good working order, a furnace could turn out to be an excellent option.

·   If your current boiler runs on oil or any other type of fuel, changing to a natural gas system is likely to result in savings on energy costs as well as environmental benefits.

·   Setting up a new high-efficiency furnace can often be less complicated and less costly than converting an older boiler system. This is especially important if your boiler is old and needs a lot of maintenance or if you want to make a switch to a different fuel source.

Reasons to Keep Your Boiler Serviced:

·   Boilers are some of the most energy-efficient heating systems available today. Changing to a newer, more energy-efficient boiler can bring about significant savings in costs as well as a reduced impact on the environment.

·   Well-maintained boilers can last longer than furnaces, providing a constant supply of heat for a long period of time. 

·   Boilers also support zoning, allowing you to control the temperature in a variety of areas of your home on their own.

What are the benefits of having a boiler?

Boilers offer a range of benefits that make them a popular choice amongst homeowners. Here's a closer look:

·   Energy Efficiency: Boilers are extremely efficient, resulting in lower energy consumption and heating costs.

·   Even Heat Distribution: Boilers distribute heat evenly throughout a space, reducing fluctuation in temperature and cold spots.

·   Durability: Because boilers have fewer mechanical components, they have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance.

·   Quiet Operation: Boilers operate quietly, resulting in a peaceful living space. 

·   Versatility: Boilers can provide both central heating and hot water, making them a versatile home comfort solution for many homeowners. 

·   Minimized Environmental Impact: Many modern boilers are built with high efficiency in mind, which reduces the emission of greenhouse gases and their effect on the overall environment.

If you’re looking to install a boiler in your home, the team at Mersey Heating and Air Conditioning is here to make it happen! If you’re located in Toronto and the surrounding neighborhoods, book a consultation appointment with us to receive a complimentary new system purchase quote and learn more about our incredible discounts and financing options!