Boiler vs. Furnace

What is the difference between a boiler and a furnace?

Many homeowners incorrectly refer to their heating system as a furnace when it might be a boiler. A furnace is all about heating air and then pushing or forcing this hot air through a series of air ducts located throughout the home with strategically placed supply and return vents. A boiler heats water and circulates either the steam (older and inefficient) or hot water (hydronic heating, highly efficient) through the home using baseboards, radiator, and/or radiant tubing.

The Boiler Advantage

Hydronic heating boiler systems have many advantages to heating your home.  Boilers can be installed as a replacement heating system or planned in a new home build.  You should always consult with the heating contractor near you to understand the best solution for your residential boiler needs.

Understanding the differences between the two types of home heating systems can help you decide which contractor near you to locate.  When searching for a home heating contractor you can utilize the Laars Contractor finder where we highlight our factory trained Certified Service Centers as well as members of LaarsPro.  You can also contact the local Laars sales representative and they will be happy to help guide you to the right heating contractor for you.

Furnace

forced air heating in a house

Forced Hot Air

  • Moves heated air through the house
  • Heated air is turbulently moved in on-off cycles by fans
  • Ducted system with metal contracting and expanding resulting in unwanted noise.
  • Furnaces are constructed of many moving parts and filters that need frequent changing
  • Hot and cold spots as air is pushed from one spot to another

Boiler

radiant floor heating in house

Hydronic Heating System

  • Heated water travels through the home efficiently heating the home
  • Heat radiates into the air and is gently circulated by convection
  • Clean and closed system doesn't spread allergens
  • Multiple heating zones keeps rooms at the individual temperature desired
  • Versatility with multiple uses
  • Space Heating
  • Water Heating
  • Snowmelt Systems
  • Towel Warmers