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Boiler vs Furnace: Which Heating System Works Best in CO?

At times, the temperatures in Colorado really tank. In such situations, you need a proper way to stay warm. When it comes to ensuring this, you mainly have two options to choose from. You can either decide to get a boiler or a furnace. 

As a property owner in Colorado, you have to choose the best possible option for the state’s unique climate. The two systems can be quite effective when it comes to heating your home. However, each of them operates differently. 

You need to be aware of these distinctions. This is the only way that you can be able to choose the best one. This article looks at exactly that. 

How Does a Boiler Work?

It implements water as the primary medium to warm your home. The first thing that happens is that the system heats the water inside. This can be done using gas, oil, or electricity. The main objective here is to ensure the water reaches the desired temperature. Once this happens, it’s circulated as hot water via pipes to radiators and baseboard units. It could also be converted into steam. 

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The hot water or steam will move through the system. As it does this, it will release warmth into the living spaces. 

Due to the implementation of water, a boiler is able to provide more even and consistent indoor comfort. 

How Does a Furnace Work?

It works by distributing warm air throughout your home. This is usually done using a network of ducts and vents. 

When temperatures drop below your desired setting, your thermostat is triggered. After activation, the system pulls in cool air and warms it. This usually takes place inside a combustion chamber. When the air gets conditioned, it’s pushed back into living spaces. This is usually done using a powerful blower fan. This cycle continues until the desired comfort level is achieved. 

The good thing about this kind of setup is that it’s able to provide fast and even warmth. It also allows for easy temperature control across multiple rooms. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best System

Energy Efficiency and Cost

If a unit is to be regarded as energy efficient, it needs to utilize less fuel to provide consistent warmth. This goes a long way in helping you lower utility bills. It also minimizes the overall environmental footprint. 

Boilers are able to distribute warmth more evenly. They also retain it much longer. These attributes make them more efficient in many Colorado homes. This is especially true during the colder months of the year. 

On their part, furnaces tend to consume more energy over time. However, they have a lower upfront price and are much quicker to install. 

You need to evaluate further factors such as fuel availability and efficiency ratings. These characteristics play a huge role in helping you choose the most cost-effective option. 

Comfort and Air Quality

A boiler is able to provide steady and gentle warmth. By doing this, it ensures heat fills the indoors quite evenly. This ends up creating a cozy living environment that everyone will love. Another great thing about all this is that it’s achieved without blowing air around. This makes these units perfect for those individuals who prefer a calm and draft-free atmosphere. 

Meanwhile, furnaces rely on air circulation to distribute heat. At times, this can lead to dry air or movement of dust and allergens. Despite this, these systems can be fitted with humidifiers and advanced filtration systems. These enhancements go a long way in boosting overall living conditions. 

Maintenance and Lifespan

You also need to think about the level of care your unit will require. A boiler has fewer moving parts. This means that it experiences less wear and tear over time. With regular servicing, yours can last up to 30 years. 

This is quite different when it comes to furnaces. They have more moving components. Some of these include blowers and fans. These elements require regular upkeep to keep the unit in top condition. 

When looking for heating solutions for your Colorado home, you will have to choose between a boiler and a furnace. Your choice between the two will come down to your comfort preferences and energy efficiency objectives. 

However, if you are still unsure, you need some expert advice. At Bear Creek Plumbing, we can help you assess your options. This is because we are well-versed in Colorado’s conditions. We hence implement this knowledge to help you stay warm and comfortable all winter long.

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