Even far from civilization you can create comfortable housing. In winter, a high-quality heating boiler that runs on solid fuel will be indispensable. Modern models are able to work without outside intervention and constant monitoring for several days.
Solid fuel boiler
This technique has several options, the main division of models depends on the following parameters:
- Type of fuel;
- number of circuits;
- download methods;
- power;
- size.
The heating system is installed on the floor based on safety precautions and operating rules. The devices can operate on solid fuels such as coal, coke, charcoal, and firewood.
There can be one or two circuits. The functionality of the product depends on their number. Single-circuit options are suitable for the heating system. They heat only the water that is in the heating system. If you want to have hot water in the tap, pay attention to a double-circuit one, equipped with an additional burner.
Which model is better to buy?
Long-burning boilers are presented in a wide range on our website. When choosing, be guided by the size of your home or business. Modern models can process both wood and coal fuels. In this case, combustion occurs in such a way that fine ash remains as a result.
For industrial use, options that run on coal are suitable, which will be supplied inside automatically as needed.
If you decide to choose a high-quality cast iron option, keep these nuances in mind. The price of such products is slightly higher than that of steel ones, but at the same time the efficiency is higher, they have good corrosion resistance, and cleaning can be done less frequently. You will also have to take care of a special foundation that will support the heavy weight of the boiler.
By purchasing a branded stove on our website, you receive a quality guarantee. We are official dealers of leading manufacturers, we deliver in Moscow and other cities of Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan. Even on the coldest winter day you can feel like it's hot summer outside.
Cast iron is remarkable for its durability and ability to retain heat for a long time, and resists corrosion well. But a structure made from it will be very heavy and cost more than steel options. In a cast iron boiler, the heat exchanger is located outside, but in a steel boiler it can pass directly through the firebox. A solid fuel cast iron boiler has a number of advantages.- Good corrosion resistance and long service life
- The heat exchanger consists of sections and if one of them breaks, it is easy to replace
- The cost of long-burning boilers is higher than the classic options.
- The efficiency of the burned fuel is 70-80% (lower than that of gas), it is necessary to regularly fill the firebox or bunker with firewood.
- The temperature control mechanism is primitive and does not allow accurately maintaining the set temperature. It actually depends on the frequency of adding firewood to the firebox.
- The need for regular cleaning of ash and combustion products.
- Firewood needs to be selected according to the size of the firebox and stored somewhere, preferably in a dry place.
In conclusion, we can say that solid fuel cast iron boilers are an excellent alternative to other heat sources. First of all, because of its simplicity, safety and sufficient effectiveness even for the northern regions of our country.
Content- Cast iron heat exchanger - advantage or disadvantage?
- Floor-standing cast iron solid fuel boiler "Lamborghini"
- Solid fuel heating boiler "Baxi" BPI-Eco
- Cast iron solid fuel boiler "Roda" Brenner Classic
The heat exchanger is one of the most important parts of a solid fuel boiler. The functionality and efficiency of the entire device as a whole largely depends on what material it is made of and what properties it has. In this article we will try to figure out why cast iron heat exchangers are preferable, which ones have disadvantages and features. We will also conduct a mini review of solid fuel heating boilers presented on the Russian market, which use cast iron heat exchangers.
When choosing a heating boiler, the main difference between the models that catches your eye is the material from which the heat exchanger is made. Traditionally it is made of either steel or cast iron. There are many legends about the advantages of cast iron products; let’s try to confirm or refute some of them.
One of the biggest advantages of cast iron heat exchangers is their resistance to corrosion. Steel boilers quickly rust and fail, while cast iron devices, if properly operated, can last for decades and save you a significant amount of money on the purchase of a new solid fuel boiler.
Photo 1: Cast iron heat exchanger for a solid fuel heating boiler
Having correctly installed the Beaver wood- and coal-fired household heating boiler, you will not have any problems with it for many years, during which time it will serve you faithfully. However, if you make mistakes during transportation, installation or connection, some of its disadvantages may appear.
The first one is fragility. If a solid fuel boiler is delivered or installed carelessly, it can easily crack, thereby wasting the lion's share of the boiler's cost.
The second main problem with cast iron boilers is sensitivity to temperature changes. If there is a large temperature difference between the supply and return lines, the heat exchanger may crack. That is why all owners of cast iron heating boilers constantly monitor the temperature in the return line and do not allow it to fall below a certain level. A common practice to combat this drawback is to install a four-way mixing valve, which mixes hot water from the supply into the return line, thereby reducing the temperature difference and minimizing risks. Among other things, household cast iron boilers are quite massive and their price is significantly higher than for steel devices.
Photo 2: Cast iron sections of a solid fuel boiler Typically, the heat exchanger of a cast iron boiler consists of hollow sections. The greater the power of the device, the greater the number of sections included in the design. They are tightly connected to each other, the internal cavity is filled with coolant, and the space inside is used as a firebox. In our reviews, we looked at several similar models, one of which is the Russian cast iron heating boiler KChM 5 with a water circuit.
Cast iron boilers are single-circuit and double-circuit. In the case of one circuit, all heat is used only for heating the premises. Double-circuit models have a built-in hot water supply circuit that provides hot water supply.
In addition to those heating devices with cast iron heat exchangers, which we have already reviewed on the website kotlydlyadoma.ru, in this article we will look at several more popular models that you can buy to heat your country house.
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The Italian household solid fuel boiler Lamborghini WBL is a prominent representative of devices with a cast-iron sectional heat exchanger. The manufacturer produces low-power models from 12 to 50 kW. In addition to using coal and firewood, it is possible to install a burner to run on diesel fuel.
Photo 3: Cast iron heating boiler with a Lamborghini water circuit Among the main advantages of the Lamborghini WBL solid fuel boiler are:
- Stacked sectional heat exchanger made of a special cast iron alloy. Its design is made in such a way as to ensure maximum heat removal and thereby high efficiency.
- Possibility of installing a special burner to operate on diesel fuel. All necessary equipment for installation is supplied included.
- The spacious firebox makes it possible to use long logs.
- The boiler is electrically independent; all settings and power adjustments are performed mechanically using an automatic draft regulator.
Main technical characteristics:
The low power of the Lamborghini boiler makes it an ideal device for heating small country houses, and the lack of dependence on the electrical network makes it possible to use it even in areas where power lines have not yet reached.
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Let's consider another cast iron solid fuel boiler "Baxi" of the BPI-Eco series. Their main feature is that they are made of highly ductile cast iron, which reduces the likelihood of cracking upon impact and overheating. There are only 5 standard sizes available with power from 25 to 65 kW. Let us note the main advantages of these devices:
Photo 4: Floor-standing solid fuel cast iron boiler “Baxi” - The spacious firebox and wide door make it easy to load large portions of fuel into the boiler, thereby increasing its operating time.
- The supply of primary air is dosed by a special thermostatic valve. Secondary air is supplied through a special hatch on the door of the loading chamber.
- A special type of non-combustible thermal insulation increases the fire safety and energy efficiency of the boiler.
- The spacious and easy-to-remove ash tray makes cleaning easy.
Main characteristics of the solid fuel boiler "Baxi" BPI-Eco:
It is worth noting that all imported cast iron boilers are structurally and visually similar to each other. For example, in one of our previous reviews, we looked at the Beaver domestic heating boiler for wood and coal, which is exactly like the BPI-Eco model from Baxi.
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German cast iron heating boilers “Roda” of the Brenner Classic series are designed for heating small areas such as country houses or small private houses. They are made from high-quality cast iron with a long service life. Despite their compact size, solid fuel boilers have a spacious firebox, allowing the use of long firewood for heating.
Photo 5: Cast iron heating boiler using coal and wood “Roda” Among the main advantages of solid fuel boilers “Roda” we highlight the following:
- Simplicity of design and unpretentiousness. The device is devoid of complex elements and control systems that are prone to breakdowns and failures.
- The automatic power control system mechanically regulates the heating output of the boiler over a wide range.
- A spacious combustion chamber and a convenient hatch for loading fuel.
- Good thermal insulation increases the efficiency of the boiler, directing all the heat to the heating system.
Basic technical data:
In addition to the above, watch a short video review of the “Roda” Brenner Classic solid fuel boiler on YouTube:
Return to contents Conclusion
When choosing which boiler to buy, cast iron or steel, you should take into account the nuances of installation and operation of cast iron models, as well as the fact that these devices are more expensive than their steel counterparts. But if you are determined to purchase this finicky heating device, know that with proper installation and operation it will last much longer than a steel one, thereby saving you a lot of money and time on replacing the heating boiler.
kotlydlyadoma.ru
Wood boilers for heating
Many owners of suburban areas do not have the opportunity to use natural gas, so they have to use wood-burning boilers for their summer cottages. Such modern devices are characterized by increased operating time and high efficiency. When purchasing wood boilers for heating your home, you should know about the features of their installation. It is best to hire a professional, as without experience, you can make serious mistakes. In some cases, a heating device is purchased for a greenhouse.
Principle of operation
Heating boilers that operate by using wood are very different from traditional wood stoves. In their structure they resemble a thermal station. But it is worth noting that the basic principle of operation remains unchanged.
The difference from wood stoves is the presence of a water circuit. The described devices allow you to connect a radiator heating system with a chamber in which firewood is burned. They are divided into two types:
- Pyrolysis. Their difference lies in the fact that they simultaneously use the heat obtained by burning wood and afterburning the resulting gas. It is worth noting that long-burning boilers are very similar in operating principle to pyrolysis boilers. The described devices differ in that one stack of firewood is enough for long-term operation of the boiler.
- Classic boilers. They are devices that work on the same principle as traditional ovens. Such equipment has a low cost, so it is purchased by many owners of private houses.
A solid fuel boiler is a modified wood stove with automation of the combustion process. When purchasing a wood-burning boiler for a garage, you should not choose expensive models that are designed for heating large rooms.
How to choose a device
When purchasing a wood-fired boiler, you need to consider several points:
- The area that will be heated by the boiler.
- Type of heating boiler. As mentioned earlier, there are several types of such devices. Pyrolysis devices are the most economical. But it's worth noting. That they have a higher cost.
- Boiler heat exchanger type. They differ in the type of materials used and design features. Products made of steel have a lower cost and are not afraid of mechanical damage. It is also worth noting that they are easy to repair and maintain. When purchasing a cast iron boiler for a wooden house, it is important to remember that it can be used for 35 years and is susceptible to mechanical damage. It is also worth noting that such devices are heavy.
- Camera Features. Many manufacturers produce boilers with the ability to side load firewood. It is also worth paying attention to products with top loading. A similar design is used in gas generator devices. The main advantage is the ability to dry firewood.
- Additional functions. Many boilers are distinguished by the presence of automation. Also, some devices have a built-in boiler and the ability to be remotely controlled. Greenhouse boilers are usually simpler devices.
In addition, you need to decide on the brand of the device you are purchasing. To do this, it is worth learning more about well-known manufacturers of such equipment for the home. Often, land owners purchase wood-burning boilers for saunas.
Cost of wood boilers
The cost of the products described is influenced by several factors. These include:
- Heat exchanger type. Cast iron products have a higher cost.
- Manufacturer. Some manufacturers' products are more expensive. Often the price reflects the quality of the products.
- The principle of operation of boilers. For example, the cost of a wood-burning gas generator device is approximately 35 thousand rubles. Classic heating boilers have a price of about 20 thousand rubles.
- Availability of additional equipment.
It is worth noting that if the device is registered with Rostechnadzor, documents for commissioning are not completed. Often the product is purchased for a greenhouse. Such devices are quite easy to install.
Boiler installation
Wood burning boilers are connected to the existing radiator system. During such work, it is necessary to comply with building codes and regulations. It is also important to follow fire safety regulations.
It is important to properly arrange the storage for firewood so that it can be conveniently taken out when necessary. The device usually burns about 15 cubic meters of wood per season. The boiler is installed in the basement or outdoors.
Where should the device be installed?
The described device can be installed anywhere in the house, but it should be remembered that it must comply with fire safety requirements.
Before installation, you should carefully study the following recommendations:
It is worth remembering that connecting a modern boiler requires an electrical network. When using such a device, you should use a voltage stabilizer. Automation is usually connected directly from the switchboard. When installing a chimney, fire safety regulations must be observed.
All heating elements of the described device must be insulated. A spark arrester must be installed at the pipe head to prevent a fire.
The main requirement when using a boiler is to comply with the basics of fire safety. During operation, it is necessary to ensure that the room does not smoke or the coolant boils. Often the device is purchased for installation in a greenhouse or garage.
Heating schemes
There may be several heating schemes for a private house in which a wood-burning heating device is installed. They differ from each other in the following parameters:
Before creating a liquid heating system, it is necessary to carefully develop a diagram, and during operation, comply with building codes. It is worth noting that when installing circulation pumps, it is necessary to connect a voltage stabilizer and a UPS. The described devices are highly efficient and can replace gas equipment.
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We deal with long-burning wood-burning boilers for heating a private home
Long-burning wood-burning boilers are in demand among summer residents and owners of cottages intended for year-round use. Before installation, you should understand the features, pros and cons of this type of heating in a private home. Long-term combustion boilers using wood do not require frequent maintenance, and the cost of each 1 kW/h. thermal energy is several times lower than when using liquid fuel or gas units.
A solid fuel wood boiler is well suited for homeowners who have the opportunity to purchase good quality firewood In general, the operating mechanism is based on long-term smoldering of fuel due to limited air supply - as a result, the filling lasts approximately 80% longer than when operating a solid fuel boiler of the so-called classic type.
Pros and cons of wood-burning boilers for long-burning fuel
Advantages:
- no need for frequent refueling - depending on the chosen model, you need to add firewood into the combustion chamber from once every 3-4 hours and up to 12 hours;
- possibility of using different types of fuel and their combination;
- In most cases, the boiler operates autonomously and does not require connection to other communications;
- relative cheapness of fuel.
Solid fuel boiler in a private house Flaws:
- the cost is higher than classic boilers;
- due to the low calorific value of firewood, the efficiency is from 70 to 89%;
- There is no mechanism for regulating the temperature regime.
Another important disadvantage is the inability to operate heating equipment without human intervention
Advice. Wood-burning boilers with small combustion chambers are mainly purchased for summer cottages and private cottages. Heating efficiency can be increased by increasing the combustion chamber, but at the same time the dimensions of the boiler itself will also increase.
Varieties by mechanism of action
- Heating unit with an extended firebox The simplest and most common type of wood heating. The main difference from standard solid fuel units is their elongated shape with an elongated firebox. Directly into the combustion chamber after ignition, air is supplied in a dosed manner, due to which the operating time on each load of firewood is significantly increased (up to 6–8 hours).
Solid fuel boiler with extended firebox - Top combustion model Unlike standard wood heating boilers, which are ignited from below, in the chambers of top combustion boilers, fuel is burned under the influence of a burner moving from above and slowly descending down.
- Pyrolysis boiler The gas generator, or pyrolysis unit, has a more complex operating principle and design compared to the two previous models, due to which it can operate continuously for up to 12 hours on each fuel fill. In the combustion chamber, the wood does not burn in it, but smolders very slowly, in turn releasing gas. It is discharged into the lower chamber compartment, where it is burned under the forced supply of oxygen, releasing additional heat.
Top combustion solid fuel boiler The most popular units for private properties
Different models of wood boilers differ from each other:
- dimensions of combustion chambers;
- type of construction;
- material of manufacture.
The heat exchanger is often made of steel or cast iron. At the same time, cast iron will last longer than steel, it takes a long time to cool down, but can collapse under sudden temperature changes. Steel is heat-resistant, but can be subject to corrosion and will last on average about 10–15 years.
For country heating, simple single-circuit models are most often installed; for houses with year-round living, it is rational to install a double-circuit boiler. In the latter case, one circuit will provide heating, while the second will provide hot water supply.
Diagram: device of a pyrolysis boiler Each individual unit has its own special technical characteristics, averaged data:
- power about 100 kW;
- coolant temperature at the outlet is 80 degrees, at the return - at least 50 degrees;
- working pressure on average 1 atm;
- boiler weight up to 400 kg;
- Duration of operation on one load of fuel is 10-12 hours.
Attention! When buying a heating boiler that runs on wood, you need to take into account that most units were originally designed to burn brown or hard coal. Their technical data sheets indicate the power and burning time of one bookmark based on operation on coal. Therefore, it is necessary to separately calculate the power and combustion time of the fuel if the heat generator runs on wood. How to organize heating correctly
In private cottages intended for year-round use, long-burning boilers equipped with heat exchangers are embedded in the heating system. The coolant carries the thermal energy obtained from burning wood to the radiators.
Attention! If a circulation pump is used in an autonomous system, it is necessary to make sure that the boiler heat exchanger can withstand the operating pressure of the entire system.
In small dachas with 1-2 rooms, there is no need for an autonomous heating system; it is more rational to use a convector stove of the Buleryan type. For models operating on the convection principle, the walls of the fireboxes consist of open metal tubes that are welded to each other in a vertical position.
House heating system using a solid fuel boiler During the combustion of wood, heated air rises through the tubes due to the action of convection, and cold air comes in its place.
Fuel selection
You can place a long-burning wood-burning boiler both in the house and in an equipped boiler room or in a small separate extension to a private cottage. In this case, it will be necessary to allocate a separate place for fuel: wood, coal, peat, etc.
The most popular type of fuel is often waste from the wood processing industry. But this type of fuel is low-calorie, so it requires high consumption.
Wood is the most popular type of fuel for a home boiler room The choice and degree of moisture content of the raw material will directly determine its calorific value. The fuel with the highest productivity is dry firewood, the quality of which should ideally be the same high from purchase to purchase. The maximum fuel length is 40 cm.
Important installation features
The weight of wood-burning boilers reaches several hundred kilograms, so before installation you need to make sure that the floors can withstand the load. For durable floors, a cast iron product is suitable; in other cases, it is worth considering the option of purchasing a boiler made of steel, which will weigh several times less.
At the place where the unit is planned to be installed, a concrete pad is usually installed (its thickness varies from 100 to 150 mm).
For the smooth operation of the boiler, its correct installation is very important. Non-volatile boilers use so-called mechanical thermostats. If the model has a fan designed for forced air supply, as well as an electronic control system, then a power supply will be required.
It is important to take into account that during power outages, operation will be very difficult.
Conclusion
Long-burning boilers deserve special attention when choosing heating equipment for private houses and cottages. The most effective are pyrolysis units, which have the highest efficiency of 97% and a long service life without refueling.
Placing a solid fuel boiler Before purchasing, you should also decide on the material of manufacture, the required volume of the firebox, prepare the boiler room or equip a place for the boiler in the house. Separately, you should take care of choosing high-quality fuel - dry firewood must be prepared in advance, and a separate place is allocated for its storage.
How a pyrolysis solid fuel boiler works: video
Long burning boiler: photo
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Heating a private house with a solid fuel boiler, cast iron, combined for a summer residence
Solid fuel boiler Cottage construction has been developing very rapidly for a long time, because many want to hide from the bustle of the city in villages and towns with clean air. And it very often happens that in such remote areas there is no gas main, and electricity is supplied with problems. In addition, the cost of electric heating may not be affordable for everyone. It is in such cases that home heating is installed with a solid fuel boiler.
Of course, you can install something as exotic as an ordinary antique wood stove or fireplace. But at the same time, the heat transfer of these devices will be insufficient, you will have to constantly monitor them.
Heating a house with a solid fuel boiler uses available materials such as firewood, coal, peat, and pellets. You won’t need to spend a lot of time on heating – just add fuel every few hours.
Solid fuel boilers can be made in the so-called classical variation and in pyrolysis. In classic models, the fuel that burns heats water, which acts as a heat carrier. The hot water is then distributed through the pipeline, after which it begins to heat the rooms of the house.
Solid fuel heating boilers for dachas of the pyrolysis type, which are also called gas generators, operate on the principle of dry distillation of fuel.
If the temperature is high - 200-800 degrees and there is not enough oxygen, the wood will decompose and release pyrolysis gas. When this gas comes in contact with oxygen, it starts to burn, thus releasing a lot of heat. Thus, it can be noted that a gas generator boiler increases the fuel loading period; if we compare it with the classic variation, it doubles. The efficiency is 90%. Also, home heating fuel burns more completely.
Pyrolysis boiler In addition to the above classification, solid fuel boilers can be energy-dependent or independent. Heating a private house with a solid fuel boiler will be dependent on electricity in the case when the boiler uses an electric control panel, as well as a blower fan. This improves the air circulation system.
On the heating equipment market you can find many models of solid fuel boilers - steel and cast iron heating boilers, single- and double-circuit, volatile and non-volatile. Let's take a look at the popular models that are most in demand.
Common models of solid fuel boilers
Currently, a popular model is Viadrus, produced in the Czech Republic. This is a cast iron boiler that has an affordable price and at the same time is of high quality. Due to the fact that such solid fuel boilers for water heating have a cast iron heat exchanger, they have a fairly long durability. It is possible to connect a mechanical draft regulator and a forced-air burner to the boiler.
Viadrus boiler Among other things, a circulation pump with an operating temperature of more than 80 degrees can be included in the system. This boiler is easy to maintain and install, and it can also use almost all types of fuel for heating boilers.
If you plan to install a gas pipeline in your area, you can give preference to models such as solid fuel combination heating boilers.
Such boilers have the ability to connect a gas burner. An example is the Don boiler. This is a Russian production, the device itself operates on coal or peat. The device belongs to steel boilers, so it is resistant to changes in temperature.
Solid fuel boiler Don Separately, it is worth noting such solid fuel boilers for home heating as KChM. Today such boilers are popular. It is worth noting that any fuel can be used here - not only different types of solid fuel, but also gas, diesel fuel, waste oil. Undoubtedly, such “omnivorousness” of the boiler is a very convenient property, especially in those areas that are remote from the city. The boiler itself is made of cast iron, it is durable and reliable, power is 16-90 kW.
It is also worth noting the popular Prometheus model from Sibenergotherm in Novosibirsk. Such single- and double-circuit solid fuel heating boilers have a power of 10-45 kW and are made of steel, which undergoes special treatment against corrosion. For work, fuel such as firewood, coal, pellets is used. The boiler produces high heat output, and to prevent overheating there is a function for dumping fuel into the ash compartment.
Cauldron Prometheus As for pyrolysis boilers, we note the Kharkov model. Such boilers have high efficiency, and all types of solid fuel can be used as fuel. In this case, air acts as a coolant, so heat loss can be reduced.
Advantages and disadvantages of solid fuel boilers
Among the advantages we note:
- Many people can afford to heat a wooden house with a solid fuel boiler, since the cost of the boiler is low, and installation does not require special skills.
- Fuel for heating boilers is also inexpensive, since it can be found in almost any area.
- A corollary to the previous point is that the costs of the entire heating process are not that high.
- Solid fuel boilers do not harm the environment.
- Solid fuel boilers can be used where there is no gas and poor electricity.
We also highlight several disadvantages:
- Factory-made and home-made solid fuel heating boilers require constant attention: they will constantly have to be loaded with fuel, and manually. But this disadvantage is compensated for in boilers with auto-loading, but they are more expensive.
- Both steel and cast iron solid fuel heating boilers require regular cleaning, otherwise they may simply stop working.
- Operation of the boiler at full capacity will not begin immediately, and starting it, if there has been a long downtime, will become quite difficult. Calculation of expansion tank for heating
Traditional heating of houses with wood is not so popular these days. With the advent of electricity and gas, solid fuels gradually gave way to them, but not everywhere. Not all villages have a gas pipeline yet, and the quality of the electricity supply leaves much to be desired. Moreover, modern heating designs have appeared on the market that work well on different types of solid fuel.
Features of the units
Manufacturers of cast iron solid fuel boilers are trying to offer consumers models with different price components.
To make the right choice, you need to know the main characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of using such equipment.
Advantages
The advantages of a solid fuel boiler include:
- cheap fuel;
- the use of alloy cast iron in the design, which has high strength and resistance to corrosion;
- a heat exchanger that reduces the likelihood of condensation forming on the internal walls of the fuel combustion chamber;
- long-term maintenance-free operation, guaranteed for at least 10 years;
- complete autonomy, independent of other types of energy carriers (electric current in the first place);
- Powder coating of paint, which provides a presentable appearance to the device during long-term operation.
Flaws
Solid fuel cast iron boilers also have disadvantages:
- low efficiency – up to 70%;
- difficulty in controlling ongoing thermal processes, hence the minimal automation of the unit;
- inconvenient to maintain - you have to periodically add fuel and clean the ash pan;
- high sensitivity of the boiler to temperature changes;
- heavy equipment weight.
Varieties
All solid fuel boilers are divided into two categories: conventional and pyrolysis or long-burning.
The operating principle of conventional heaters is based on burning fuel in a firebox. The generated heat warms the heating system coolant. Carbon monoxide and part of the thermal energy are removed through the chimney to the outside. The second type of equipment should be discussed in more detail.
Pyrolysis units
How do they differ from the conventional design of a solid fuel boiler? To answer this question, it is necessary to understand what the pyrolysis process itself is. This is an unusual combustion of solid fuel, which occurs with minimal participation of oxygen. In this case, a sufficient amount of heat is released plus pyrolysis gas, as one of the combustion products of the same firewood, coal, sawdust, and so on.
The operating principle of such devices is that the gas released during fuel combustion is used as an additional type of fuel. Therefore, in the design of pyrolysis-type heating units, two combustion chambers are installed: in the first, fuel is burned, in the second, pyrolysis gas.
What is the principle of long burning based on? The thing is that fuel combustion occurs with a minimal supply of fresh air (oxygen). Therefore, it is difficult to call the process itself combustion. Firewood, pellets and sawdust slowly smolder inside the first firebox, releasing heat and gas. The latter, under the influence of high temperature (according to physical laws), independently moves into the second chamber, where it burns, releasing a large amount of thermal energy.
Depending on the design of the boiler, the fuel can burn inside it from eight hours to two days. That is, there is no need for frequent periodic filling and cleaning of the ash pan, which means that the constant presence of a person is reduced to a minimum.
Device Features
Conventional cast iron solid fuel heating boilers and long-burning units emit a large amount of heat. Hence some requirements for their installation and maintenance.
Chimney
The chimney is of great importance in their composition. The high temperature of the exhaust carbon monoxide is a guarantee that condensation will begin to form on the inner walls of the pipe. This is what leads to corrosion processes and the formation of tar. The latter narrows the cross-section of the chimney, which means it negatively affects draft.
Therefore, experts advise using chimneys made of sandwich structures for solid fuel devices. They are based on stainless steel and insulation. The ideal option is a ceramic or glass outlet pipe. True, this pleasure is not cheap.
It is better not to use a brick chimney for solid fuel appliances. The likelihood of condensation forming in it is very high due to the heating of the brickwork through and through.
Safety
And a few more recommendations for safe operation. Installation of a cast iron solid fuel boiler requires pouring a foundation for the device. A steel sheet must be laid on the foundation; its dimensions must be at least 20 cm larger than the area of the unit on each side.
The distance from the fuel storage location to the boiler must be at least half a meter. If a solid fuel heating device is installed in a wooden house, then the walls near the installation site must be lined with fire-resistant materials (metal or asbestos sheets, brickwork).
Comparative analysis
Comparing solid fuel heating units (conventional and long-burning) with other boilers is a thankless task. After all, each type and type has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Electric boiler
For example, electric boilers have neither combustion chambers nor chimneys. This is a heating equipment that does not pollute the atmosphere. But on the other hand, devices of this type operate on the most expensive type of fuel. And as mentioned above, domestic electrical networks cannot provide a constant supply of electricity with the necessary indicators (especially regarding voltage) to all suburban villages.
In this regard, the availability of solid fuels is one hundred percent. Moreover, stores began to sell pellets packaged in paper bags of 25-30 kg. By the way, about pellets. The requirements of most consumers to automate fuel loading made it possible to create solid fuel boilers with a hopper and auger. Wood pellets are poured into the hopper, and they are fed into the combustion chamber by an auger as needed. The only disadvantage of these models is their energy dependence.
Gas appliances
You can compare gas boilers with solid fuel ones according to two criteria:
- In terms of efficiency, the efficiency of a gas boiler reaches 95%, that of a conventional solid fuel boiler reaches 70%, and that of a long-burning boiler reaches 100%.
- Solid fuel units, unlike gas ones, can be installed independently without any permits.
Oil Heaters
Liquid fuel heating boilers are rarely used today in private housing construction. It's all about the complexity of storing the fuel itself and supplying it to the nozzles of the heating device. Firstly, for this you will have to set up a separate warehouse, which must fully comply with fire safety requirements.
Secondly, a thermally insulated metal pipeline must be stretched from the warehouse to the boiler room. All this is expensive and difficult.
