How do I Compare Wood Boilers?
Outdoor wood boilers can dramatically reduce heating bills. They are a good choice for those who have multiple buildings to heat as well. Comparing wood boilers is the first step toward making the correct purchase decision for the wood boiler that best fits your needs. If you are in the market for a wood boiler, take the time to research what is available before making your decision. Look for the boiler with features that point to reliability, durability and the toughness to withstand weather over the years. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Calculate the number of square feet you need to heat. Match the boiler size to the space and buy the boiler that best complements your existing heating system. Choose the system that will allow you to still use the existing duct work and returns already in place. Do not pay the expense of tearing out and replacing an expensive duct system just to accommodate the new boiler.
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Heavy gauge carbon steel is extremely heat resistant. Find the unit featuring the strongest construction material for the best durability. Look for units constructed with heavy gauge carbon steel as opposed to stainless steel. Be aware that carbon steel is not as apt to expand and contract as much as stainless steel. This means that carbon steel is longer lasting than stainless steel, because steel that expands and contracts is far more apt to crack and fail.
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Find a unit that has a large water jacket, because a larger water jacket will give added insulation and fire protection. More water will increase the insulation layer between the heat and the metal framework of the boiler, so buy the boiler that has the best ratio of water volume to heat volume. Using the water volume to insulate an almost equal heat area keeps the boiler metal frame cooler, thereby increasing boiler longevity. This same heat control makes the boiler a safer unit to operate, because the heat range is more easily managed by the increased water volume.
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Tops rippled on their undersides will last longer than traditional flat tops. Look for a boiler with a ribbed or rippled top, which allows for better heat transfer than the traditional flat tops. Cut maintenance costs with this feature as well.
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Select a boiler that features a large, cast-iron access door. This will make it easier to add wood to the firebox. Buy only a boiler with automatic draft control that will control the unit's water temperature by thermostat.
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Urethane foam has excellent sealing and insulation properties. Make sure the unit's exterior is all-weather steel siding, and that it is mounted on a skid frame. Eliminate the need to pour a concrete pad with the skid frame base. Purchase only a boiler that is guaranteed to be 100 percent airtight and waterproofed with urethane foam insulation.
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Buy a boiler that has a rectangular firebox with stay pins. Do not buy a unit with a round firebox, unless you are prepared to deal with replacing a collapsed firebox. Make sure your boiler has a rear exhaust outlet that reduces heat loss to the lines servicing the house and/or other buildings and a well-insulated chimney.
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Tips & Warnings
Locate the boiler in accordance with local ordinances and as close to the house or other buildings as possible for shorter loading trips.
Insulate the service lines well to retain as much heat as possible.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Wood House image by Gonçalo Carreira from Fotolia.com steel sheets image by Mikhail Tischenko from Fotolia.com Ripple 3 image by wayne ruston from Fotolia.com abstract yellow foam background image by GoodMood Photo from Fotolia.com
