When Saskatoon temperatures fall below –30 °C, homeowners need a heating system that delivers steady warmth and reliability. Two common options—boilers and furnaces—operate differently, each with unique advantages. Understanding how they compare helps you make the right investment for comfort and efficiency in Saskatchewan’s long winters.
How Boilers and Furnaces Work
- Furnace: Uses forced air distributed through ducts.
- Boiler: Heats water, circulating it through radiators or in-floor piping.
- Furnaces warm the air quickly, while boilers provide even, radiant heat.
Boilers heat water in a closed loop, offering consistent comfort and fewer drafts. Furnaces, by contrast, push heated air through ducts, which can create quick temperature changes but also allow integration with central air conditioning.
Efficiency and Operating Costs
Modern high-efficiency furnaces can reach up to 98% AFUE, converting nearly all fuel into heat. Boilers are slightly lower on paper—around 85–95%—but radiant heat tends to feel warmer at lower thermostat settings, balancing out energy use.
In Saskatoon’s cold climate, radiant systems excel at maintaining comfort without frequent cycling, while furnaces recover faster after doors or windows open.
Maintenance Requirements
- Furnaces: Filter changes every 1–3 months.
- Boilers: Annual pressure and valve inspection.
- Both need professional servicing once per year.
Furnaces typically cost less to maintain, but boilers have fewer moving parts and longer lifespans (20–25 years vs. 15–20 for furnaces).
Installation & Space Considerations
Furnaces require ductwork, making them easier for newer homes or retrofits with existing vents. Boilers suit older homes with radiators or hydronic floor systems.
Pro Service Mechanical installs both types and ensures compliance with TSASK gas and mechanical codes.
Which System Is Best for Saskatchewan?
For homes with large open spaces and variable use, a furnace’s fast air delivery is ideal. For homeowners prioritizing even warmth, quiet operation, and minimal drafts, boilers shine—especially when combined with in-floor heating.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but both systems can perform exceptionally when installed correctly. Whether you’re replacing an old unit or building new, Pro Service Mechanical can help you choose the right heating solution for Saskatoon’s extreme climate.
Schedule a consultation with Pro Service Mechanical today to compare furnace and boiler options that match your home and lifestyle.
