What’s the difference between a boiler and a furnace? Both can be used to heat your home, but in different ways. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, furnaces heat air that then gets distributed through your home’s air vents, while boilers heat water and use hot water or steam to heat your home through radiators.

Are maintenance and repairs different for boilers than traditional furnaces? For example, since boiler systems use water, they may leak.

There are different types of boilers, including hot water boilers and steam boilers.

If you have a steam boiler, it’s important to check your system often to ensure sediments do not build up and create clogs. This can lead to poor efficiency in heating your home. Draining water from the boiler and float chamber can help remove these sediments.

For hot water systems, test the pressure-relief valves and inspect the pressure tank often to ensure it is not filled with water.

How often should you get your boiler inspected? Schedule annual inspections and tune-ups with a trusted heating service near you to keep your boiler working correctly. These frequent checks and maintenance services can give you peace of mind that your home’s heating system is safe and working properly each season.

Are there other ways to keep your home warm in addition to maintaining your boiler? Check that your ceilings, walls, and floors are properly insulated. Windows, fireplaces, and doors are also big-time culprits for letting warm air escape. Inspect these areas for cracks or gaps that bring cold air into your home.

You can take additional steps to ensure the energy efficiency of your HVAC system, like changing your air filters and installing a smart thermostat.

Repairing your home’s heating system can be expensive. With equipment and labor costs, you can expect a range between $4,500 and $10,000 or more. Before committing to such a large purchase, be sure you’re working with a boiler maintenance or replacement service you can trust.

Look for the BBB Seal when hiring a trusted repair service. BBB Accredited Businesses adhere to the BBB’s Standards for Trust and operate with your best interest in mind.

For more information

Read how to find a general contractor you can trust. See BBB’s tips on buying and servicing your heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

Visit BBB’s Home HQ for more tips and resources for home maintenance.

For additional information about HVAC, visit BBB’s HVAC HQ.