What is a solid fuel boiler?
A solid fuel boiler is a home heating boiler that is fueled by a solid fuel such as wood pellets, and coal varieties (e.g. anthracite). Most solid fuel boilers are gravity-fed, so the fuel is loaded into a container (or hopper), and the fuel drops into the boiler.
The hopper can either be situated with the boiler, and some models have the hopper outside a building. Modern solid fuel heaters are able to heat central heating systems and water systems.
Modern solid fuel boilers are much more energy efficient than they used to be, and new fuels are being created that are made from recycled paper and wood.
Advantages of a solid fuel boiler
- Some types of solid fuel boiler can be fitted into existing chimney stacks or fireplaces, giving a nice focal point to a room and make any room feel cosy.
- The improved heating from a solid fuel boiler means the likelihood of mould or damp appearing in a home are greatly reduced.
- Solid fuel boilers are usually tough and have an extensive life.
- Solid fuel boilers can be installed in areas where gas isn’t available.
Disadvantages to a solid fuel boiler
- Solid fuel boilers are much less responsive than gas, oil or electric boilers, and there is sometimes a delay in response.
- Gas and other types of boiler have a constant supply of fuel, so they never run out. However, solid fuel boilers need refilling, so they can run out of fuel which can leave you in the cold until the boiler is refilled.
- Ensuring you can keep costs down takes a bit of organisation, as poor usage can mean fuel will be wasted, increasing your energy bills.
- Solid fuel boilers can be fairly large, and you will also require space to store the solid fuel.
