Highlights
Boilers provide hot water and central heat to your home.
Water heaters only provide hot water to your faucets.
Boilers are more costly to install and repair.
There are more options for water heaters.
It’s easy to take hot water for granted, but let’s face it—we need it. There’s only so long you can go without a hot shower, after all. Plus, the dishwasher depends on it, and a bubble bath just isn’t the same without warm water.
Both boilers and water heaters supply your home with all the hot water you need, but they’re also very different. If you need to choose between the two, consider these points to decide on what would work best for you.
Boiler Pros & Cons
Boilers provide central heating for your home and hot water to your faucets (talk about two birds with one stone!). Although they can be a bigger investment upfront, they can save you money in the long run.
Pros
Heat is evenly distributed
Keeps floors warm in winter
Less noisy than water heaters
No vents or forced air that blows allergens and dust
Typically lasts longer than water heaters
Costs less to run than forced-air systems
Cons
Costs two to three times more than water heaters
Replacement parts are more costly
Takes time for temperature to change after adjusting thermostat
Requires additional ductwork for central cooling system
Water Heater Pros & Cons
Water heaters have one mission: to provide your house with hot water. It’s definitely one of the first must-have appliances you’ll want to install in a new home.
Pros
Less energy to run than boilers
Smaller in size
Easier to install
Many different options
Lower upfront costs
Less expensive to replace
Cons
Requires separate system for central heating
Higher utility bills
Tankless may require water softener
Water temperature can be inconsistent
Boiler vs. Water Heater
Boilers and water heaters are significantly different, but how can you choose? If you already have a central heating system, then you’re probably better off installing a water heater. However, if you’re building your house from the ground up, you might benefit from choosing a boiler system.
Options
There are standard or combination boilers. Standard boilers are large and have one tank for cold water storage and a cylinder for hot water. Combination boilers heat water on demand and don’t have a storage tank. Also, boilers either use water or steam, with the former type requiring an electric pump.
The main two types of water heaters are tank or tankless. The tank heaters heat the water and hold it in the tank until it’s needed. On the other hand, tankless heaters heat water on demand. They can also use a heat pump or a hybrid heater, which uses 60% less electricity because it uses heat in the air and the ground instead of electricity.
Most choices: Water heaters
Lifespan
Boilers can last around 10 to 15 years, although some can last 25 years or more. Eventually, you’ll notice problems like odd noises, radiators taking a long time to heat, water leaks, or higher gas bills. High-quality boilers that are properly maintained have the best chances of lasting a long time.
Water heaters usually last around eight to 12 years. Notably, if you consider the pros and cons of tankless water heaters, you’ll find that tankless models can last 20 years. Common signs of a failing heater include water leaks, hissing sounds, and inconsistent performance.
Longest lifespan: Boilers, if you invest in a high-quality model
Price
Installing a new boiler costs $5,800 on average. A standard-efficiency boiler costs $3,000 to $6,000 and a high-efficiency boiler costs $6,000 to $11,000. Installation costs $1,000 to $2,500.
Replacing a standard gas boiler costs $4,000, and replacing a high-efficiency boiler costs $7,500. These costs include a tank inspection, soil test, tank replacement, old tank disposal, and environmental cleanup.
Additionally, if your boiler is powered by oil, you’ll need to account for periodic oil refilling. 50 gallons of oil could last all winter if your home is less than 1,000 square feet, with 100 gallons costing around $280 to $300.
On the other hand, water heaters cost substantially less. A new water heater costs $1,200 on average with installation. Tankless heaters cost $1,000 to $3,000 while high-efficiency heaters cost $700 to $3,000, and installation ranges from $150 to $1,500.
Most affordable: Water heaters, if you already have a central heat system
Installation
Installing a boiler in your home requires extensive work, especially if you’re putting in a brand new system. Boilers are very heavy and have many complex parts. You would need to install the boiler, radiator, and the input and output pipes under flooring. For a job like this, it’s probably best to call a boiler installation company near you.
If you have some plumbing knowledge, you may be able to DIY a water heater installation. However, there are many steps involved and you’ll need some muscle to get it done.
Easiest to install: Water heaters
Repair/DIY-ability
Generally speaking, if you’re noticing issues with your boiler, like leaks, temperature differences, or emissions problems, you’ll want to call an HVAC professional. Boiler parts are intricate and complex, so repairing them is not a typical DIY project.
If you call in a pro, you can expect the cost of a boiler repair to fall somewhere between $240 and $2,500.
Water heaters are easier for DIY repairs, depending on the problem. Most DIYers will be able to troubleshoot common issues like temperature being too hot or cold, the pilot light going out, or the heater working less efficiently.
If you have to hire a pro, the cost of a water heater repair ranges from $100 to $1,300.
Easiest to DIY repairs: Water heaters
Maintenance
Boiler maintenance requires an annual inspection of your boiler, vents, and wiring. Every six months, you should lubricate the circulating pumps and flush the boiler. Additionally, conduct a safety valve check monthly.
To maintain your water heater, you should conduct a visual inspection for leaks, test the water valve, and drain the tank to remove sediments.
Easiest to maintain: Water heaters
Sustainability
Boilers can be considered more sustainable because they harness the natural properties of hot water or steam.
But if you’re looking for something that is 100% sustainable, your only option is a solar water heater. These cost around $1,000 to $6,000 for the tank and $2,000 to $4,000 for installation. Although the upfront costs are high, it’s hard to beat having unlimited hot water without paying for electricity or natural gas.
Additionally, you can opt for high-efficiency tankless water heaters that use less energy.
Most sustainable: Boilers
