Get matched with top boiler installation pros in Newtown, OH

A furnace is a big unit where gas, heating oil, or electricity heats the air. The warmed air is then pushed back out through ducts and vents. 

A boiler uses electricity, heating oil, or gas to heat water that is pushed into the room through a radiator. This is one of the oldest and most effective ways to heat a house, but radiators can also be unsightly and leave hot and cold spots in the room.

Heat pumps use a refrigerant to move heat from outside into the house and return it to the room through ducts and vents.

The best time of year to purchase or replace an HVAC system, including components like an air conditioner or furnace, is during the off-season—spring and fall. During these periods, HVAC professionals are less busy than in summer and winter, when extreme temperatures create urgent demand. Shopping during the off-season can lead to savings of 10% to 15% on an AC unit and allows you more time to find the best deal and other cost-saving incentives. Typically, air conditioning units go on sale in the fall after demand drops, while furnace prices tend to decrease in the spring.

No, boilers and water heaters are not interchangeable because they serve different primary functions. Boilers are used for central heating systems, providing hot water or steam to heat your home. In contrast, a water heater's purpose is to supply hot water for daily household use, such as for faucets and showers. A water heater alone cannot supply the warm water or steam needed for a central heating system.

While they are not interchangeable, it is common to have both a boiler and a water heater. In fact, a conventional boiler often works best when a water heater system is already in place. The two systems can be combined to provide both heating and hot water, either by pairing a boiler with an indirect water heater or by installing a premade combination boiler-water heater unit. For home heating, some homeowners may also opt for a furnace instead of a boiler.

Warmed or cooled air can escape your home through drafty windows and doors. If you notice any gaps, be sure to caulk and seal them. You can also hire a local pro for an energy audit to get a list of energy-saving recommendations. 

Finally, check your insulation. It can settle in over time and become less effective. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that you can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs (or 11% of total energy costs) by sealing leaks and making sure attics, crawl spaces, and basements have a nice layer of insulation.