Biomass is a type of fuel produced from organic materials.
Biomass fuels like wood pellets, wood chips or wood logs are used to power a
stove or biomass boiler. There are several different types of boiler – boilers that are loaded by hand
and automatic systems that are loaded by large hoppers.
Biomass boilers look like conventional boilers or wood burning stoves. Like all boilers you need to ensure that there is an adequate flue. If you are installing a wood burning stove there must be sufficient air movement in the room for the stove to operate.
It’s also important to have adequate storage space for the fuel.
You also need to check if you live in a smoke controlled area.
It’s also worth considering a boiler with a hopper so it can feed itself.
The cost for a boiler depends on system type. But a typical system costs between £5,000 and £11,000 for a three bedroom semi-detached house.
If you have an oil or gas operated boiler this could be a cost effective alternative.
Planning permission is not required, however:
the installations must comply with all safety and building regulations.
You need to ensure that you comply with the Clean Air Act that stipulates that wood can only be burnt in exempted appliances.
If you live in an area of outstanding natural beauty or you live in a listed
building you need to check with your local authority before a flue is fitted.
Benefits
- It is a carbon neutral solution.
- It can be installed instead of a gas or oil fired boiler with the fuel coming from a renewable source.
- The fuel is readily available in most areas of the UK.
- It could add value to your home.
Usually these systems require a yearly service, but you need to check with individual manufacturers for more details.
