If you’re considering replacing your existing heating system, there are a number of decisions you’ll need to make. One of the most important is deciding between installing a boiler or furnace—but how do you choose? Either option will keep your home warm and comfortable throughout the fall and winter months, and there are pros and cons to each. The only way to make the best decision for your home and family is to learn all that you can about each option and see which one best suits your budget, lifestyle, and needs.
For nearly 150 years, the experts at McAllister have been helping homeowners in South Jersey with the selection, installation, repair, and maintenance of their heating systems. Give us a call today at 800-757-4122 or contact us online to learn more.
Pros & Cons of Boiler Installation
Regardless of whether the source of power is electric, gas, or an alternative source, a boiler system heats up water, channeling it through pipes or radiators. As it circulates, radiant heat is produced and the temperature inside your home increases.
Pros
- Zoned heating. Heat is easily divided in to zones, so you can control which areas of your home to heat based on need, lowering your energy costs.
- Fewer repairs. With fewer moving parts, it is likely your boiler will require fewer repairs.
- Allergy friendly. Since a boiler doesn’t move the air in your home, it doesn’t circulate contaminants—resulting in cleaner indoor air.
- Even heating. Radiant heat produces even, consistent heat, compared with hot and cold spots often associated with forced air furnaces.
- Long lifespan. When properly maintained, a boiler system can last upwards of 25 years.
- Quiet operation. Along with the absence of blown air, comes the absence of any noise, for whisper quiet operation.
Cons
- Delayed heat. A boiler needs more time to heat your home, as it requires time to heat the water.
- Freezing. Because they rely on water to produce heat, a boiler system is at risk for freezing in subzero temperatures.
- Water leakage. Water leaks can reduce system pressure, and potentially cause property damage.
- Bigger initial investment. While they cost less to operate and maintain, the initial cost is typically higher than a furnace.
Advantages & Disadvantages of a Furnace
Today’s high-efficiency furnaces can run on either electricity, natural gas, or propane, and rely on a network of ducts to distribute forced, heated air to every room in your home.
Pros
- Lower initial investment. Purchase and installation price is typically lower than that of a boiler system.
- Won’t freeze under extreme temperatures. Because they rely on air instead of water, there is no risk of freezing.
- Programmable heat. Use a programmable or smart thermostat to control your heat remotely, or program the unit to raise and lower the temperature of your home based on your needs and preferences.
Cons
- Increased maintenance. Because they circulate contaminated air, a furnace requires periodic cleaning to prevent undue wear and tear on parts. Regular filter changes are required by the homeowner every four to six weeks during peak heating season.
- Lower air quality. Allergens such as dust, dander, and pollen can be recirculated through ductwork causing issues for those that are sensitive or have compromised immune systems.
- Reduced efficiency. Leaky ductwork can account for up to a 30 percent loss of conditioned air, driving up energy costs, and forcing your furnace to work harder to heat your home to the desired temperature.
Heating Services in Somers Point
When you choose McAllister, you’re making the smartest decision for your system. Our technicians are skilled and experienced heating professionals who can efficiently install a new heating system or repair your existing one. We’ll identify the issue, fix it, and you can get on with your life. If you need emergency service, no worries—our HVAC repair specialists are on call all day, every day, even holidays.
For dependable heating system installation, maintenance, or repair in South Jersey, choose McAllister. Contact us online or give us a call at 800-757-4122 to schedule service.
