Making a decision between a boiler and a water heater to supply hot water to your home might be challenging. Both choices effectively provide a constant supply of hot water, but they do it in different ways and are best used for distinct tasks.
In this post, we will look at the fundamental differences between boilers and water heaters, as well as how they work and what they are intended for. After reading this, you should be able to make an informed decision about your household’s hot water needs.
What Is a Boiler?
A boiler is a sort of heating system that heats a residence with hot water or steam. A boiler does not necessarily boil water, although it does convert water to steam. Steam is a low-cost and highly effective heat transfer medium.
Boilers are a common choice for many homeowners because they are cost-effective and can distribute heat evenly throughout a home, regardless of size or layout. A boiler system uses a heat exchanger to warm water, which is then circulated via a series of pipes and radiators or baseboard heaters to warm the rest of the house.
Boilers are commonly used in homes with hydronic heating systems, which heat the residence with hot water. Some boilers can also generate hot water, which can be used to take showers and clean dishes.
Types of Boilers
Heat-Only Boilers
A heat-only or normal boiler has three major components: the boiler itself, a separate hot water storage cylinder, and a cold water storage tank. The boiler can offer both hot and heated water since it heats water for the central heating system and for the storage cylinder.
System Boilers
They are similar to heat-only boilers in that they contain a separate hot water tank, but theirs is unvented. Since everything, including the pump and expansion vessel, is housed within the boiler, it can get its water supply directly from the mains and does not need a cold-water cistern tank.
Combi Boilers
If you want an energy-efficient boiler, consider a combi (combination) boiler. They can be used to heat the house and the water in it, cutting down significantly on heating costs. Because they connect to the mains, you won’t need any extra water tank or cylinder space, making them perfect for apartments, condos, and other tiny dwellings. Plus, they can rapidly heat as much or as little water as you require, so you won’t have to wait forever to have a nice, steamy shower.
What Is a Water Heater?
Like boilers, water heaters allow you to use steaming hot water for all of your household’s plumbing needs, including the shower, sink, and dishwasher. In contrast to boilers, this is a water heater’s one and only function. It is a common misconception that water heaters also contribute to home heating.
A different method of generating heat is available to households that utilize water heaters rather than boilers. Most homes in North America rely on a furnace for this purpose. However, heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular as well.
Types of Water Heaters
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters don’t store hot water. They just heat water as needed. The tankless system heats cold water as it flows through.
Tank Water Heaters
Most residences use a standard tank water heater. They have 20–80-gallon tanks that heat and keep water hot. When you turn on your sink or shower, hot water runs from your water heater in the basement, garage, or utility closet to your faucet through the plumbing pipes.
Gas Water Heater
Gas water heaters use natural gas to quickly warm up cold water, delivering it to the taps in your home in a matter of minutes. The resulting hot water is also very clean and free from impurities, making it safer than using traditional tap water.
Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters slowly warm up stored amounts of cold water over time, usually in tank units that hold 10-20 gallons of hot water at a time meaning that electric heaters need more power to provide the same amount of hot water as a gas heater would.
Boiler and Water Heater Comparison: What’s the Difference?
Let’s examine the difference between boilers and water heaters using a few factors, as shown in the table below.
| Comparison | Boilers | Water Heaters |
| Installation Costs | New boilers cost $3,500 to $8,000, including the device and installation. | Water heater installation expenses range from $1,000 to $3,500. |
| Energy Efficiency | Up to 95% AFUE | Ranges between 60% to 93% UEF |
| Life Expectancy | Usually last between ten and fifteen years. | Usually last between ten and fifteen years. |
| Maintenance Required | Requires more maintenance services annually. | Requires less maintenance services annually. |
| Uses | Used to produce heat and hot water. | Providing hot water for household use, such as washing dishes, taking showers, and doing laundry. And heating water for a swimming pool or hot tub. |
What’s Best for You: A Boiler or a Water Heater?
The best option if you require heating and hot water is a standard gas boiler. A boiler is the most practical option if you also plan to install radiators or underfloor heating because it will quickly heat water and the entire room.
If all you need is hot water for your home, the gas water heater is a good choice. As long as their capacity isn’t exceeded, they can heat all the water added to the system without needing more boilers, and they’re much smaller.
Unfortunately, water heaters have a limited output that is quantified in liters per minute. Common flow rates are 5, 10, and 15 per min, however higher 0are available. It is important to consider both the number of people residing in the home and the total number of consumption points when estimating your requirements (bathrooms, kitchens, and appliances).
Also Read: Boilers Vs. Furnaces: What’s the Difference?
Contact MDM Mechanical for Boiler and Water Heater Installation, Replacement, and Repair
MDM Mechanical is ready to assist you with any water heater or boiler installation needs you may have. Our team can complete installations for any boiler or water heater model. We’ll help you find the most cost-effective and energy-efficient heating solution for your house, then professionally install it so that you can count on it for years. Contact us today to request a quote.
