Choosing the right commercial heating system is no small decision. In Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore or the South Shore, commercial property owners often ask the same question: Should I choose a furnace or a boiler? At AirGreen, we’ve guided countless building managers through energy transition projects by helping them choose the heating solution best suited to their property, specific needs, and budget. This article is here to help you understand the key differences between commercial furnaces and commercial boilers, backed by real-world examples from our on-site work.
Understanding the Key Difference Between a Furnace and a Boiler
The distinction between a furnace and a boiler comes down to how they operate:
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A furnace heats air and uses a ductwork system to distribute the warm air throughout the building. It’s an air-forced system.
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A boiler, on the other hand, heats water or glycol, which then circulates through radiators or radiant floors. It’s a hot water system, typically associated with greater thermal comfort.
Each technology has its advantages and limitations, particularly when it comes to energy efficiency, installation cost, maintenance, lifespan, and compatibility with the existing infrastructure.
Advantages of a Commercial Furnace
Quick Performance and Simpler Installation
Furnaces are often chosen for their ability to heat large volumes of air quickly. Forced air systems reach a comfortable ambient temperature in minimal time—an undeniable benefit in cold winter climates like Montréal and its surroundings.
Lower Initial Cost
The installation cost of a furnace is generally lower than that of a boiler, especially if the building already has existing ductwork. Many of our South Shore commercial clients have opted for this system during energy retrofit projects.
Can Be Integrated with Air Conditioning
Another key benefit: a furnace integrates easily with a central air conditioning system, allowing for a unified HVAC setup. This simplifies maintenance and optimizes mechanical room space.
Advantages of a Commercial Boiler
Superior Thermal Comfort
A hot water system delivers more even, consistent heat without drying out the air. This is particularly valued in settings like offices, clinics, or heritage buildings, where comfort and thermal stability are essential.
Less Noise and No Drafts
Boilers provide quieter operation and eliminate air movement that can stir up dust or create unpleasant drafts. On the North Shore, several medical or educational buildings have chosen boiler systems to maintain a quiet and stable indoor environment.
Higher Long-Term Efficiency
While the initial investment may be higher, boilers—especially high-efficiency condensing models from brands like Bosch, Viessmann, or NTI—typically deliver better energy performance over time, especially in larger surface areas.
Case Study: HVAC Installation Project in a Commercial Building in Laval
We recently completed a full HVAC system conversion in a Laval office building. The outdated forced air system no longer met the building’s energy or efficiency requirements. After an in-depth assessment, we recommended installing a 400,000 BTU Bosch condensing boiler powered by natural gas, combined with a multi-zone regulation system.
The result: a 35% reduction in annual energy costs, improved comfort in every unit, and eligibility for a generous rebate through Québec’s energy transition program.
Key Factors to Consider Before Choosing
1. Existing Building Infrastructure
Installing a boiler requires the proper piping infrastructure (radiators or radiant floors), whereas a furnace fits into existing ductwork systems. We always assess this setup before making any recommendations.
2. Specific Heating Needs
A furnace may be sufficient for open spaces with variable occupancy (e.g., warehouses, retail stores), while a boiler is more appropriate for environments that demand consistent and even heating (e.g., daycares, senior residences).
3. Long-Term Operating Costs
Even though furnaces are cheaper upfront, they can be less economical over a 15–20 year lifespan. We help clients calculate their Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) so they can make a fully informed decision.
Available Grants and Financial Incentives
Thanks to programs like Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert or the federal Greener Homes initiative, various types of HVAC equipment, whether air- or water-based, may be eligible for significant subsidies.
We support our clients throughout the application process by providing detailed technical quotes, energy performance documentation, and all required paperwork.
Our Expertise Working on Your Commercial HVAC Projects
For over 10 years, at AirGreen, we’ve helped dozens of commercial clients in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and South Shore with their heating and air conditioning projects. Whether it’s a major HVAC retrofit in a multi-unit building or a targeted equipment replacement in an SME, we leverage our HVAC expertise to deliver tailored, high-performance, and long-lasting solutions.
Our approach always includes:
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A complete thermal needs analysis of your building
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Energy modelling to compare options
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A precise installation plan carried out by certified technicians
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Rigorous post-installation follow-up and an annual preventive maintenance program
Conclusion: What’s the Right Choice for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Choosing between a furnace and a boiler depends on numerous technical, economic, and logistical factors. What matters most is basing your decision on a thorough professional evaluation and partnering with a trusted commercial HVAC specialist like AirGreen to make the right call.
Get in touch with us today for a free evaluation of your current system and see how we can help you improve your building’s thermal comfort and energy efficiency.