What is a residential boiler? How is it different from a furnace?

A residential boiler is a heating system used in homes to heat water, which is then distributed to provide warmth. The heated water or steam circulates through radiators, baseboard heaters, or radiant floor systems to heat the home. Boilers can run on natural gas, propane, oil, or electricity.

Differences Between a Boiler and a Furnace

Furnace:

Heating Method – Heats air and distributes it through ducts.

Heat Distribution – Uses ductwork and vents to circulate warm air..

Comfort Level Can – Heat rooms quickly but may cause dry air.

Energy Efficiency – May lose heat through duct leaks

Installations and Maintenance – Easier to install and maintain

Best for – Homes needing quick heating, often in milder climates

Boiler

Heating Method – Heats water to produce hot water or steam for heating

Heat Distribution – Uses pipes, radiators, baseboards, or in-floor heating

Comfort Level Provides consistent, radiant heat (less dry air)

Energy Efficiency – Often more energy-efficient due to radiant heating

Installations and Maintenance – Generally requires more maintenance due to water components.

Best for – Homes in colder climates needing steady, even heat

We will service a range of manufacturers. The following are the companies that we recommend after installing and servicing a wide range of manufactured boilers and furnaces. For Boilers we found that both Bosch and Utica Boilers provided the highest quality. For furnaces we recommend Armstrong Air or Concord for Gas, Electric and Propane. For oil furnaces we recommend Airtemp and Thermo products. We will service a range of manufacturers.