Both boilers and furnaces are two of the most commonly used heating systems for homes in the United States. While furnaces heat and distribute air through the house using ducts, boilers heat water to create hot water or steam for heating that flows through pipes and is then distributed through radiant floor systems. High-efficiency heating systems are available in both boilers and furnaces. Ask a heating contractor which system or upgrade would be better suited for your home.
The best way to know which system is most efficient is to look up their annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). This information is required by the Federal Trade Commission to be displayed on all different models. This measurement displays the efficiency of an appliance over a year. So if a furnace has an AFUE of 85% this means that only 15% of the heat given off by this product is lost up chimneys and wherever else the heat can escape. When deciding on buying and installing a heating system, make sure to look up its efficiency rating first.
The best AFUE ratings for heating systems come from all-electric furnaces and boilers. There is usually less than a 5% heat loss through a chimney with the electric systems. Their only drawback is that they are more expensive to run which makes them an uneconomic choice. Your best option if you want electric heating is to investigate buying a heat pump system. Make sure before any of your final decisions are made that you consult a heating specialist or contractor for more information and installation options.
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