What's the Difference Between a Boiler and a Water Heater?
Boilers and water heaters are both used to heat water, but they have different functions.
A boiler is meant to heat space by providing hot water throughout the house to radiators. On the other hand, a water heater provides domestic hot water for use in your dishwasher, washing machine, and other appliances, etc. Luckily, we’re experts in both so when it comes time for water heater or boiler installation or repair, we’re here for you.
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Boilers
Boilers are part of a type of residential space heating device that performs the same functions as other home heating devices like HVAC systems, furnaces, in-wall heaters, baseboard heaters, or any other system or device that heats space. Oil, natural gas, propane, or electricity is the energy source that heats water to near-boiling (145 to 190°F) in a large sealed tank. A circulating pump pushes the hot water through a network of pipes in a loop throughout the house. Some types of boilers push steam through the pipes. Radiators are end points or waypoints along the hot water loop. With either, the water cycles back to be heated in the boiler again, where the process starts all over.
Water Heaters
Water heaters are devices that heat cold water to a specified temperature for home water usage. Cold water enters the water heater from the top and is deposited toward the bottom of the sealed tank with a dip tube. The water is heated by coils with electric models or by a gas flame with gas models, or in some cases, water to water (commonly known as heat exchangers). Hot water leaves the water heater from the top. The hot water is delivered to various parts of the house through 1/2-inch pipes, usually PEX or copper.
Which is More Efficient?
In terms of energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness, boilers are more efficient than water heaters because they can heat up large amounts of water quickly and maintain that temperature for longer periods of time². However, boilers are more costly to install and repair than water heaters.
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(1) The Differences Between a Boiler and a Water Heater - The Spruce https://www.thespruce.com/boiler-vs-water-heater-5223066
(2) Water Heater Vs. Boiler: Which One Is Better for Your Home? https://upgradedhome.com/water-heater-vs-boiler/
(3) Boiler vs Water Heater: What Are the Differences? - Angi https://www.angi.com/articles/boilers-vs-water-heaters.htm
(4) Boilers vs Water Heaters: What's the Difference? - Home Climates https://homeclimates.com/blog/boilers-vs-water-heaters-whats-the-difference