There are several factors to consider when comparing the efficiency of a gas furnace to a boiler, making it difficult to say definitively which is more efficient overall. Here's is some information on both systems to determine which suites your needs better.
Gas furnaces:
- High efficiency: Modern gas furnaces can achieve efficiency ratings in the mid-90s%, meaning they extract nearly all the usable heat from the burned gas.
- Forced air distribution: Furnaces usually use forced air to distribute heat throughout the home, heating homes faster and more evenly than radiant heat from boilers.
- Lower upfront cost: Gas furnaces are usually less expensive to install than boilers.
Boilers:
- Radiant heat: Boilers provide radiant heat through tubing, baseboards and radiators, which some people find more comfortable than forced air.
- Fuel flexibility: Boilers can run on different fuels like natural gas or propane,
- Longer lifespan: Boilers tend to have longer lifespans than gas furnaces.
Factors to consider:
- Climate: In colder climates, a boiler's higher efficiency is more consistent..
- Square footage and insulation: Larger homes with ample insulation usually benefit more from a boiler's radiant heat distribution.
- Existing equipment: If your home already has ductwork for a furnace, converting to a boiler will require additional installation costs.
Making an informed decision about what your needs and wants, will help you gain peace of mind. Consulting with a qualified HVAC professional can help you choose the most efficient and cost-effective heating system for your home.