Five Wood Boiler FAQs

February 23, 2023

Wonder what are some of the biggest questions asked by people looking to purchase an outdoor wood boiler or are new owners to an outdoor wood boiler. Here are some of the most common questions asked of people like yourself looking to purchase a new wood furnace:

What is an outdoor wood boiler and how does it work? An outdoor wood boiler is a heating device that burns wood to produce hot water which is then circulated to heat a building. It is usually located outside the main structure and connected to the indoor heating system through pipes. There are heat exchangers within your building to transfer heat to a forced air furnace or a hydronic system.

What are the benefits of using an outdoor wood boiler? The benefits of an outdoor wood boiler include lower heating costs, increased energy independence, and reduced carbon footprint, compared to traditional heating systems that rely on fossil fuels.

What types of wood can be used in an outdoor wood boiler? Most outdoor wood boilers can burn any type of wood, but it is recommended to use seasoned, dry wood for optimal performance and to minimize creosote buildup. Some models, the the multi pass, will be able to burn other types of biomass including coal.

How often does an outdoor wood boiler need to be refilled and maintained? The frequency of refilling and maintenance depends on the usage and size of the boiler, but it is usually necessary to refill the outdoor wood boiler with wood, coal, or other biomass once or twice a day, and to perform regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure its proper operation and safety. There will be weekly cleaning that takes 5 to 15 minutes and end of the year shutdown cleaning.

Are outdoor wood boilers safe to use? Like any heating device that uses combustion, outdoor wood boilers can pose a fire hazard if not used and maintained properly. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions, have the chimney inspected annually, and ensure that there is adequate ventilation and clearances around the boiler.