The cheapest type of heating for a private home is, one of which is firewood. The peace and comfort in your home will depend on how high-quality and suitable the boiler you install specifically for your conditions is. Therefore, which solid fuel boiler is best for your home and by what criteria to choose it, we will look into it meticulously and in detail.
If you are going to buy a boiler for heating a private home, the first thing you need to know is the area of the heated room. After all, the power of the unit directly depends on this. According to manufacturers, the calculation is simple: every 10 m2 of area requires the generation of 1 kW of thermal energy. With a total house area of 150 m2, a power of 15 kW is sufficient. But it's not that simple.
Amendments must be made if:
- Ceiling height is more than 3 m;
- Quantity window openings exceeds the norm;
- The house is not insulated enough.
You also need to remember that in harsh climatic zones during the cold season the boiler will have to be heated constantly, even at night. Therefore, it is better to choose a unit with a power reserve of 5-10 kW, which will allow you to control the combustion intensity.
In addition to power, the following characteristics are important:
- Performance or efficiency is an important characteristic of a heating system. This coefficient is directly dependent on the design features of the equipment and the method of fuel combustion. Solid fuel boilers have a fairly high efficiency, it is 80-98%.
- Cost of operation. The reliability of a boiler brand depends not only on the manufacturer, but also on design solutions, materials used for components and casings, cost and availability of service, spare parts, and operating conditions.
- The type of fuel consumed is another important characteristic. When calculating the cost of heating in a private home, the price of the selected fuel in the region (coal, pellets, firewood) and the performance of the equipment are taken into account. The more expensive the fuel and the higher the combustion rate, the more expensive it becomes to heat a private home or cottage.
Kinds
There are several classes of boiler equipment based on the principle of its operation:
Classic.
Quite traditionally arranged. They consist of a combustion chamber and an ash chamber, a tank for a water jacket, and a chimney. All known types of solid fuel are used - firewood, sawdust, pellets, they can also be heated with coal. Used in heating circuits with natural air circulation. Every 5-7 hours of operation it is necessary to load the next portion of fuel. The automatic control unit regulates the air supply to control the fuel combustion process depending on the temperature displayed on the display. IN best models a draft regulator is built into the chimney, the task of which is to pump cold air into the chimney in order to retain the heat inside the firebox as much as possible.
Gas generating or pyrolysis.
Such boilers have two combustion chambers. Firewood is placed in the lower firebox, where under the influence high temperature and in the complete absence of oxygen, the process of smoldering occurs. Carbon dioxide enters the upper chamber, burns there, and the heat exchanger heats up. Fuel must be loaded once a day. There are boiler models with automatic and manual draft regulators. Look at user reviews on forums, think about what is more convenient for you.
Pellet
Why pellet boilers so popular in Europe? This equipment requires minimal human presence and runs on environmentally friendly fuel. Pellets are granules made from sawdust, peat, wood and agricultural waste.
- The main advantages of pellet boilers:
- high efficiency;
- wide range of adjustments;
- fuel is undemanding to storage conditions.
Among the disadvantages, we note the high cost of equipment and pellets.
Please note: if necessary, the pellet burner is covered with a sheet of iron on top and the system can be heated with coal or peat; firewood is also suitable.
Long burning.
These boilers are closest to pyrolysis boilers, but the operating principle is slightly different. The oven consists of two chambers; smoldering and gas formation occur below. In the upper chamber, the gas mixes with air and burns completely. Based on the number of actions performed by gases in flame tubes, they are divided into one-, two- and three-pass. Three-pass heat generators are considered the most efficient because they utilize the thermal energy of flue gases as fully as possible. One load of wood lasts for about two days, and one load of coal lasts up to five. In addition, it can be heated with coke, pellets and petroleum products. An ideal solution for non-residential premises, cottages, garages.
In the instructions for the equipment, boiler manufacturers describe in detail which fuel will be used as the main one and which is additional.
Material of manufacture: steel vs cast iron
The main materials for the production of solid fuel boilers are cast iron and steel. Steel models have high thermal conductivity and are quite durable, while cast iron grades, despite their fragility, have a long (up to 20 years) service life. When studying consumer reviews, the following summary emerged.
Steel boilers
- Advantages:
- allow the active use of automation and are sensitive to changes in operating parameters.
- have a high efficiency.
- easily tolerate temperature changes.
- Flaws:
- weak point: welds. Rusty, cracked, folded boilers cannot be repaired.
- equipped with only one heat exchanger.
- are subject to corrosion.
Cast iron models
- a structure consisting of prefabricated sections.
- the presence of a main and additional external heat exchange circuit.
- threaded connections, replaceable seals.
- are not afraid of corrosion (although with a long service life the coating
- Advantages:
are characterized by a film of “dry rust”; unlike steel corrosion, it does not progress).
- Flaws
- are subject to thermal shock. With sudden changes in temperature, fatigue zones appear.
Criterias of choice
Now that we’ve sorted out the basic concepts, it’s time to voice additional criteria that will help evaluate the ease of use of the models you’re interested in and add individuality to them.
External insulation available.
It is the external thermal insulation that makes it possible to reduce heat loss when warming the boiler room and significantly slows down the cooling time of the boiler. This also allows you to load the firebox no earlier than after 7-12 hours, eliminating the need for “cold” kindling.
The number of elbows in the smoke exhaust system.
If the boiler is direct, its performance is equal to the efficiency of a small indoor fireplace. The more economical it becomes heating device than from more parts made up the chimney.
Pressurization system.
The presence of such a unit reduces the requirements for the number of chimney bends. At the same time, a boiler with high efficiency copes well with the process, even with clearly weak draft.
Devices with a pressurized design require constant monitoring of the furnace door seals; the presence of the most inconspicuous gap guarantees the entry of smoke into the living areas of the house.
Energy independence
Like the ability to work in the event of a power outage. Boilers that have natural coolant circulation operate in this mode. However, such equipment has a low efficiency and does not monitor the combustion process, unlike units with a volatile automatic control panel.
Thermostat.
If there is no thermostatic unit, you will have to keep a close eye on the system. With a modern temperature control device, one load of the fuel chamber at a temperature near 0°C is enough for a day.
Existence of an exhaust gas combustion chamber with lining.
If we compare boilers with and without the lining function, it turns out that the former burn 25-45% less fuel with the same output power.
If you are installing a solid fuel boiler in order to save money, then the lining function is mandatory.
Boiler safety system
On the Internet there are consumer reviews about cases of folding the walls of boilers inward. This situation occurs in cases of overheating due to violations of operating conditions. Therefore, take care of your boiler and think over a security system.
Regardless of whether the boiler is heated with coal or wood, the circulation of the thermal agent is forced. To prevent overheating in the event of a circulation failure, a cooling heat exchanger is installed. It is built into the boiler, or installed at the outlet.
It is impossible to install an independent cooling circuit inside cast iron boilers, so it is mounted at the outlet of the device and equipped with a thermal valve that is activated when a critical temperature is reached.Some boiler manufacturers use shut-off valves that block the fuel supply when overheated.
To feel 100% confident in the safe operation of the boiler room, install in heating system accumulator tank. It will accumulate heat and, if necessary, transfer it to heating devices. Such a buffer tank will increase the efficiency of the boiler, ensure automatic maintenance of an even temperature of the coolant, and reduce fuel consumption.
Contrary to popular belief, it is not the excessive pressure generated in the hydraulic jacket that collapses the walls of the boiler; it is released through the blast valve. The walls of the boiler are folded by the physical ability of the metal to expand, and the process occurs in the easiest direction, inward. Remember - normal pressure for the boiler long burning 1.5 barrels, and the maximum permissible temperature coolant +95°C.3 popular models of solid fuel boilers
When choosing a solid fuel boiler, study its functionality. Now owners of private houses are concerned about finding a universal unit. Manufacturers are expanding product capabilities: offering models that run on different types of fuel and automating the process as much as possible. Let's consider 3 models of solid fuel boilers within the parameters described above.
1. Candle 18 company AREMIKAS (Aremikas), Lithuania
Fuel: firewood.
Type: long burning.
Material: steel.
Power: 18 kW, which is enough to heat a house with an area of 50 to 120 m2.
Chimney diameter: 160 mm, thrust - 15 Pa.
The shape is elongated, cylindrical, the minimum burning time of one load of firewood is 7 hours, the maximum is 34 hours. Compact, non-volatile, economical.
Feedback: “I experimentally determined the optimal size of logs to be 10-20 cm so that they fit comfortably in one hand. The better you arrange the wood, the better it will burn.” Ivan
2. Zota Mix 40 manufacturer Russia
Fuel: firewood, diesel, gas, coal, fractional coal.
Type: classic, combined.
Material: steel.
Power: maximum 40 kW.
Chimney pipe height: 8 m.
The boiler is equipped with an electronic control module. Water jacket located along the contour of the combustion chamber. The efficiency of the combustion process is ensured by a mechanical draft regulator and a thermomanometer to control the temperature and pressure of the coolant.
Reviews: “I also have a Zota, there are no problems with the equipment, but I had to contact the manufacturing plant... If there are problems, call or write... There are representative offices in many cities... intelligent, responsive people” Peter.
3. Alpine Air Solidplus-4, country of origin: Türkiye
Type of fuel: coal, firewood.
Material: cast iron.
Combustion chamber type: open.
Power: 25.5 kW.
Efficiency: 70%.
The boiler is finished with a special, corrosion-resistant paint on top. The manufacturer provides a guarantee of 3 years of uninterrupted service. Non-volatile, allowing efficient operation at low temperatures.
What consumers say: “I am the owner of a small country house with an area of 90 square meters. I bought Alpina a year ago. It works like a clock, without failures, both under heavy loads and not so much. I chose a cast iron boiler because it retains heat for a long time. I'm happy with the purchase, the best value for money." Alex.
Heating equipment should be purchased after careful research technical characteristics device, reviews on forums from real consumers, analysis of one’s own needs. Only a properly selected unit will help create a comfortable atmosphere at home and fill it with cozy warmth.
Wood boilers for home heating are still popular, despite the variety of models of gas and electric boilers, and there is a simple explanation for this: firewood is the most affordable type of fuel for country houses, not connected to the main gas. The efficiency of modern wood-burning boilers is quite high, their efficiency reaches 85%, and not only wood, but also pellets, as well as wood waste, can be used as fuel.
Wood boilers used for heating country house, easy to connect and use - they are even easier to handle than a stove. If the installation and operation instructions are followed, they are safe. The only one serious drawback wood boilers have a low level of process automation: loading fuel into the boiler must be done manually. A way out of the situation may be a boiler with a long-burning function or a combination boiler that runs on solid fuel and has an additional diesel or gas burner or electric heating element.
Despite huge selection models of wood-burning boilers, their design differs not so much. Any wood-burning boiler for heating a house must have a fuel combustion chamber, a water heat exchanger, a chimney and an ash pan. The simplest wood-burning boiler resembles a potbelly stove with a water jacket: when wood burns in the firebox, the water heats up and enters the heating system. The efficiency of such a boiler is low, and the consumption of firewood is significant; due to incomplete combustion of fuel, part of the money literally goes down the drain. The design of modern boilers with a long-burning function is, of course, more complicated; the structure of such a boiler and its main elements are shown in the figure.
Firewood is loaded into the boiler through the top loading door in large quantities at once. The initial combustion of the fuel occurs in the gasification chamber. The supply of air, and with it the oxygen necessary for combustion, into this chamber is limited - this is how the intensity of combustion is regulated. In this mode, the wood does not burn, but smolders, producing more heat, and the water in the heat exchanger is heated. But the combustion process does not end there: during smoldering, smoke containing flammable gases is formed. These gases enter the second chamber - the combustion chamber, which also serves as an ash pit. The air supply to this chamber is no longer limited, and with a sufficient amount of oxygen, afterburning of gases occurs. Combustion temperature gas-air mixture is very high, and the heating efficiency of the water heat exchanger in this chamber is also very high. As a result, the smoke is cleared of ash and harmful combustible gases, which makes the new generation of wood-burning boilers very environmentally friendly.
Pyrolysis is a long-term combustion process
Video - the principle of operation of a long-burning wood-burning boiler
Smoke is removed through a chimney duct connected to the chimney and pipe. For cold supply and outlet hot water From the heat exchanger, the boiler is equipped with pipes. They are connected to the heating system according to the selected scheme. New generation boilers are equipped with automatic equipment that makes boiler maintenance as simple as possible:
- a temperature sensor that sends a signal to the primary air supply fan;
- a pressure sensor that signals when the normal value is exceeded;
- water pressure sensors in the system.
The efficiency of solid fuel boilers directly depends on the type and quality of fuel. If the boiler is designed to operate on wood, you must not load coal or peat briquettes into it! This will reduce the efficiency of the boiler and may damage it. It is also not recommended to use poorly dried firewood and wood for heating a wood-burning boiler. coniferous species– they burn with the formation of large amounts of steam, tar and soot, and the boiler will have to be cleaned much more often.
Wood boilers - choice
When choosing a wood-burning boiler, you must begin by calculating the required power - this parameter is indicated in the boiler’s passport and is measured in kilowatts. One kilowatt of boiler power is enough to heat ten square meters of a well-insulated room. For example, in the middle zone, to heat a house with an area of 100 square meters, a boiler with a power of 10 kW is needed. For frosty days and poorly insulated rooms, a power reserve of 20-30% is required. When choosing, you should pay attention not only to the rated power, but also to the entire range in which the boiler can operate - in the fall and spring it is not advisable to heat the boiler at full power. If you plan to use the boiler also to produce hot water, then you will need an external boiler and an additional supply of boiler power based on the number of people permanently living in the house.
The boiler material – steel or cast iron – plays an important role. Steel boilers are lighter and have a simpler firebox design, which is easier to clean - just remove the ash from the ash pan. The smoke channel of steel boilers is longer, so heating of the coolant occurs more efficiently. Cast iron boilers have a shorter smoke channel, and a larger heat exchange area is achieved due to the ribbed surface in which combustion products settle; a cast iron boiler will have to be cleaned using brushes, scrapers and pokers. At the same time, the heat capacity of the boiler itself is higher for cast iron models.
A separate type is electric wood-burning boilers, which use electricity to further increase efficiency. Modern automation monitors the combustion process and influences it using valves that regulate the flow of incoming air into the firebox, so you can control the temperature in the firebox at a given level!
Wirbel steel wood burning boiler
An important indicator is the ratio of the volume of the loading chamber to the boiler power. To put it simply, how many times a day will you have to approach the boiler to load fuel. For steel boilers this figure is usually higher - on average 1.5-2.5 l/kW versus 1.1-1.4 l/kW for cast iron boilers - therefore, loading is carried out less frequently.
Be sure to make sure that there is an emergency cooling system and clarify the principle of its operation. This system may be needed if the boiler overheats and water boils in the heat exchanger. Boilers with a separate emergency cooling circuit are safer; if emergency cooling is achieved by abruptly draining water from the heat exchanger and replacing it with cold water, make sure that the boiler is resistant to thermal shock.
Protection against burns is an important indicator, especially if access to the boiler room is open to strangers or children. A useful option is heat-insulated firebox handles, protective casings and grates, and thermal insulation of the hottest surfaces of the boiler.
Thermal protection of boilers is a mandatory safety condition
Wood boilers - installation requirements
Efficient and safe operation of a wood-burning boiler is impossible without correct installation. How to install a boiler with your own hands without violating safety rules?
Installation location
Any wood-burning boiler consumes a fairly large amount of air during operation, so for low-power boilers that can be installed in common areas at home, they perform supply and exhaust ventilation, and if the boiler power is more than 50 kW, it is necessary to install a separate boiler room with a useful room volume of 8 cubic meters or more. Wood boilers are installed on solid, level base with fireproof coating - concrete, tiles, porcelain stoneware. The walls must also be lined non-flammable materials. The boiler room is equipped with forced ventilation.
Chimney requirements
The chimney for a wood-burning boiler is made of of stainless steel, ceramic or thick-walled metal pipe. The optimal choice is stainless steel chimneys of the “sandwich” type. They are easy to assemble from various elements– pipes held together with clamps, roof passages, unloading platforms. When bending such a chimney, bends are used at a certain angle. It is allowed to exhaust the boiler chimney not through the roof, but through the wall of the building. The height of the straight part of the chimney for stable draft in the boiler must be at least 6 meters for a 16 kW boiler and at least 10 meters for a 32 kW boiler, with a pipe diameter of 200 mm.
Service and maintenance
It is also necessary to clarify the service and warranty conditions for the selected boiler model, the proximity of service centers and the possibility of calling specialists for installation and repair. It may happen that servicing a cheaper model will cost significantly more than analogues from well-known companies with service centers in large cities.
Video - self-installation of solid fuel boilers
Wood-burning boilers for heating a house after installation are connected to a water heating system. For uninterrupted operation of the system, you can additionally install a tank-heater on electric heating elements, in this case you will not have to add firewood during your night's rest or when you are away from home.
Solid fuel boilers- an alternative method of heating private houses. Electric models consume a lot of electricity, so the effectiveness of their use (especially in large areas) is very questionable. Gas boilers are more justified in this regard, but require the supply of the appropriate type of fuel to the house, which is not always possible. It is in such cases that it is very difficult to overestimate the benefits of stoves, the combustible material for which is firewood, coal and other solid elements.
The current market realities are such that potential consumers are presented with hundreds, if not thousands, of models of heating boilers for every taste: long-burning and pellet, classic and pyrolysis. It is quite natural that making a good choice in such a situation is very, very difficult. To simplify the situation a little, we have prepared for you a rating of the 18 best solid fuel heating boilers in six different categories.
The best long-burning solid fuel boilers
The advantage of long-term heating boilers over others is clear from the name: the duration of solid fuel burning in them when the furnace is fully loaded is two to three days, and in other cases (depending on the type of fuel) it reaches five or even twelve days. At the same time, a volume of thermal energy sufficient to heat the entire provided area is released on an ongoing basis. They are economical, but have low efficiency and cause a lot of trouble to maintain.
3 NMK Magnum KDG 20 TE
Profitable price
Country Russia
Average price: 48,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
A typical representative of long-burning boilers from a Russian manufacturer, which was created specifically for the climatic conditions of our vast country. Unlike many other contenders (according to manufacturers’ recommendations), it uses exclusively coal for heating, which burns out within five days with an efficiency of around 75-80 percent. This is not much, but when heating with other fuels, for example, wood, the situation looks much more sad. Users' feelings from the operation of this boiler are generally positive: the design is serviceable, it is unpretentious in maintenance, and in terms of power in general it is the “golden mean”. I am very pleased with the existing system for regulating fuel combustion, albeit primitive.
Advantages:
- a domestically produced product, which explains the favorable price;
- good workmanship;
- the presence of a heating control system (the connection between the control links is carried out in a chain).
Flaws:
- the need to observe a strictly defined position of the air damper (with a gap of five millimeters) for proper operation of the boiler.
2 Stropuva Mini S8
The optimum ratio of price and quality. User selection
Country: Lithuania
Average price: 56,500 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
Lithuanian heating boiler, highly rated by users. In fact, the manufacturing company Stropuva continues and naturally reaps the benefits of the system built during Soviet Union. The Mini S8 boiler is compact, made in the form of a “barrel”, but it is very heavy to move, which causes some problems with installation. Its efficiency is associated, first of all, with the type - long burning One load of coal can provide heat for two to five days. There are also no complaints about the quality - everything is done reliably, neatly (which is not so important in boilers) and evokes some semblance of true admiration. But there is still one miscalculation - the shagreen lining is practically impossible to remove carbon deposits, which most often form above the firebox door.
Advantages:
- very high quality execution;
- economical heating of premises - one stack of firewood is enough for 12-20 hours of combustion; coal – up to five days;
- good balance between price and quality;
- the ability to connect additional circuits, heating elements, and other systems.
Flaws:
- beautiful, but impractical shagreen covering;
- difficulty in moving due to the large weight of the “mini-model”.
To complete the picture and clarify what pros and cons this or that type of solid fuel boiler has, let us turn to the comparison table:
|
Boiler type |
pros |
Minuses |
|
Classical |
Extremely simple and reliable technology Low price compared to other types Any available type of fuel can be used |
– Low efficiency – Inability to accurately adjust the coolant temperature – High sensitivity to moisture content of flammable materials |
|
Long burning |
When loaded with coal, the boiler can operate for up to five days. Using wood fuel the operating time is two days Complete energy independence |
– Lack of water temperature regulators in the system – Increased requirements for fuel quality – Typically very low efficiency |
|
Pyrolysis |
High efficiency Possibility of process adjustment Long intervals between placing flammable materials (up to 12 days) High reliability and workmanship |
– Electrical connection required – Without lining, the combustion chamber is very sensitive to raw fuel – If the lining is not at the proper level, the chamber walls burn out and the boiler fails |
|
Pellet |
High efficiency Complete process control via electronic control |
– High cost and large dimensions of boilers – High cost and shortage of fuel – Requires a power connection |
1 Buderus Logano G221-25
Best quality
Country: Germany
Average price: RUB 154,580.
Rating (2019): 4.9
German boilers from Buderus are the standard of quality and efficiency for heating spacious rooms. Despite their Eastern European production, they can easily withstand the difficult conditions of the harsh Russian winter, have a fairly high level of efficiency (85 percent), and also do not require a large amount of fuel. If the circulation pressure of the coolant is not enough, you can easily “hook up” a pump to the Buderus Logano G221-25, which is what savvy users resort to. Heating occurs very quickly, and cleaning the firebox does not cause any difficulties. Thus, 20-kilowatt models are capable of heating a room of up to 200 square meters. And judge for yourself what a 25-kilowatt boiler is capable of.
Advantages:
- voluminous firebox – accommodates logs up to 68 centimeters long;
- nice design;
- excellent workmanship and impeccable design reliability;
- high energy efficiency;
- unpretentious in maintenance and easy to install.
Flaws:
- high price.
The best inexpensive solid fuel classic boilers
Classic heating boilers– the devices are by no means rare in use. They are successfully used by people for heating private houses or for installation in houses on summer cottage. By the way, inexpensive models are ideal for the second rather than the first option. They are by no means bad, but their characteristics very often turn out to be overestimated, which leads users to disappointment after the first attempts to use them.
3 EVAN WARMOS TT-18
High power rating
Country Russia
Average price: 32850 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.4
Solid fuel boiler of Russian origin. Not bad to become a source of heat for country house, but is doubtful for use in private premises. Its whole problem lies in its overstated characteristics - the rated power of 18 kilowatts is designed to heat areas up to 120 square meters, but the effect of heat transfer is practically not felt. The real and most effective heating threshold is no more than 60 square meters. Solid fuel, with optimal regulation of the dampers, it burns out in 60-90 minutes, after which the boiler quickly cools down and, if this moment is missed, requires re-ignition. And you won’t be able to forget about the functions of a stoker either. The result is logical: the model is quite capricious, but if desired, you can always find a compromise that suits both parties.
Advantages:
- very simple installation of the boiler;
- acceptable quality of the case;
- capable of working on wood, coal and peat.
Flaws:
- inflated data on heated areas;
- the need to select the optimal position of the damper to prevent excessive fuel consumption or interference with normal combustion.
2 ZOTA Dymok-M AOTV-12M
Optimal balance of characteristics
Country Russia
Average price: RUB 18,870.
Rating (2019): 4.6
An ideal model for installation in a summer cottage. Small, but with decent power potential; unprepossessing, but it makes up for it with its original functionality. 12 kilowatts of thermal power released during complete combustion of combustible material is enough to heat 80 square meters of area. Even 70 percent efficiency does not spoil the overall impression of the work. This version of the oven is combined, so it can be used for heating and electrical element(TEN). At the top of the body there is a hob - a pleasant addition to the main function and acceptable characteristics.
Advantages:
- Availability hob as a nice addition;
- efficient heating of the area declared by the manufacturers;
- possibility of connecting a thermal electric heater;
- The coolant is heated to a temperature of 95 degrees Celsius.
Flaws:
- mediocre appearance;
- a little overpriced.
1 Lemax Forward-16
Best price
Country Russia
Average price: 16,500 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
16 kilowatts of power of the Lemax Forward-16 boiler is enough to heat administrative and domestic premises, private residential buildings and even cottages, through independent or forced (with the installation of a pump) circulation of the coolant through the heating water system. This is one of the most successful examples of small but productive installations with an uncharacteristically high (about 75-80 percent) level of efficiency. The simple design contains a solution to many operational problems. From the point of view of a technologist, such measures as, for example, “padding” the heat exchanger with channels to increase the ultimate tensile strength look redundant, but are justified from the point of view of durability of use. Such a boiler can last a good seven to nine years, provided that all correct operation measures are followed without exception.
Advantages:
- Availability additional elements, which have a positive effect on the durability of the installation;
- optimal cost with acceptable quality;
- a fairly high (atypical) level of efficiency;
- the ability to connect a pump to increase the coolant circulation rate;
- the possibility of converting the boiler to work with gas (carried out by installing a gas burner device).
Flaws:
Boilers: classic solid fuel boilers of premium class
More expensive classic boilers– installations on a completely different level. Unlike their budget “brothers”, they have a higher percentage of efficiency, power, and overall reliability indicators (not always, but as a rule). The disadvantages of inexpensive classics, expressed in the deliberate overestimation of characteristics, are absent here, however, the typical disadvantages of classical systems are fully manifested.
3 Kentatsu ELEGANT-03
Optimal cost
Country: Japan
Average price: 35990 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
Kentatsu ELEGANT-03 is a modified model of a heating boiler, which took into account all the nuances and errors of previous installations. It is reliably known that they, in turn, did not have effective cooling and allowed the boiler to overheat. In this version, this is a water grate cooler, and, as practice shows, it copes with the assigned task flawlessly. On the front wall of the cast iron body there is a thermometer showing the real temperature of the coolant water. A controversial step towards ensuring ergonomics was the division of the boiler into sections. On the one hand, it has increased effective area within the model, but on the other hand, this negatively affects the terms of service.
Advantages:
- the model took into account the mistakes of the past, including with active cooling;
- Availability of equipment for self-service;
- low price;
- high quality and durability of the cast iron body;
- presence of a thermometer on the front wall.
Flaws:
- dividing the boiler into sections complicates the process of repair and maintenance in the event of a breakdown.
2 Bosch Solid 2000 B SFU 12
The optimum ratio of price and quality. Experts' Choice
Country: Germany
Average price: 51977 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Bosch products confidently occupy high places in all areas of the manufacturer’s activities, and a similar trend is also observed in the boiler segment. Bosch Solid 2000 B SFU 12 is a low-power (for luxury installations) version of the boiler, which is very popular among users for its good heating ability. The main feature of the model is its functionality: it can be a leading one or combined with gas boiler to increase the efficiency of heating rooms. Thus, one of the users successfully used the installation to heat a small workshop, and, as practice has shown, there were no problems with handling. The heat from one load remained in the system for three to four hours, which indicates the clear feasibility of the installation.
Advantages:
- high quality of both housing and internal structure;
- acceptable efficiency (84-85 percent);
- positive user reviews;
- ease of maintenance;
- Possibility of combination with gas boilers.
Flaws:
- low rated power (13.5 kW).
1 Protherm Beaver 50 DLO
The best efficiency indicator (90.2%). High boiler power (39 kW)
Country: Slovakia
Average price: 109,500 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0
Protherm Beaver 50 DLO is a real monster among the elite, a Slovak-made product that will definitely appeal to anyone who wants to have a high-performance heating boiler.
The Slovaks did not come up with anything new to preserve useful thermal energy. Based on known physical laws, facts and practice, they simply stuffed thermal insulating glass wool under the cast-iron body, thereby reducing heat losses. As a result of this simple step, efficiency skyrocketed to a crazy 90 percent. By updating the standard shape of the heat sinks, they were able to increase the volume of the combustion chamber. Thus, with one download you can completely catch up comfortable temperature to a room up to 350 square meters. This is largely due to the rated power of 39 kilowatts.
Advantages:
- high technical characteristics;
- adequate build quality;
- large heated area;
- low heat losses due to the presence of insulating material;
- presence of an air regulator;
- availability of maintenance tools in the kit.
Flaws:
- not detected.
The best solid fuel pyrolysis boilers
The action of pyrolysis, or gas generator, boilers is based on the combustion of wood gas released from smoldering firewood under the influence of temperature. When passing through the nozzle, the gas burns out, which contributes to the formation of a small amount of ash and soot. The efficiency of such boilers reaches 85 percent. The burning time of one load ranges from 5 to 12 hours. Disadvantages include high price and special requirements for fuel - only dry wood is needed for heating.
3 Wirbel BIO-TEC 35
High level of efficiency (91%)
Country: Austria
Average price: RUB 370,216.
Rating (2019): 4.8
An Austrian boiler capable of maintaining a comfortable temperature throughout the day. It all depends on the selected power: in the nominal combustion mode, firewood and briquettes last no more than four hours. As the indicator decreases, the rate of complete combustion of the bookmark decreases. According to experts, an important difference between this model and domestic ones is the occurrence of a real pyrolysis process, as opposed to ordinary afterburning. Perhaps, the only drawback boiler is the need for constant connection with CAS - a specialized heat storage tank. The supplied control panel is responsible for the operation of the systems.
Advantages:
- presence of a control panel – complete automation of processes;
- after pyrolysis, the process of afterburning the exhaust gases occurs - complete exhaustion of fuel;
- high rated power.
Flaws:
- failure of the control panel deprives the user of the ability to manipulate processes;
- very high cost.
2 Bourgeois-K STANDARD-20
Affordable price
Country Russia
Average price: 55,470 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
The heating power of the Bourgeois-K series boilers has been repeatedly questioned - they say, a value of 20 kilowatts means absolutely nothing, since it does not heat the declared area of 200 square meters. Some users take the side of the manufacturers, while others claim inability. However, the never-ending debate has created quite a stir around model range, so the technician does not experience attention deficit. The burning time of one bookmark in it is about ten hours. In terms of price, this boiler is noticeably inferior to “foreign” models, which is its main and irrefutable advantage.
Advantages:
- the cost is lower than that of competitors;
- high thermal power and its corresponding heating capacity;
- burning duration of the bookmark;
- low consumption of combustible material.
Flaws:
- there is a huge stir around the possible discrepancy between the characteristics of the declared information.
1 Wattek PYROTEK 36
Best rated thermal power (36 kW)
Country: Czech Republic
Average price: 171,900 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Pyrolysis boiler of a serious European level, created in accordance with all current quality standards. Czech manufacturers decided to release a line of automatic control units, which simultaneously made life easier and more difficult for themselves and their users. The fact is that “automation” is a delicate thing, and in some particularly unfavorable cases (due to accidents) it can easily fail. Repairing and setting up a control system on a boiler of this level is expensive, which often causes bewilderment and an angry reaction from people. Perhaps this is the only significant drawback of the system, because in other components it is almost perfect.
Advantages:
- the presence of an automatic control system for temperature and operating parameters;
- presence of emergency, boiler and boiler sensors;
- burning of wood stock is 12 hours, briquettes - 15-17 hours;
- high quality assembly materials;
- expanded complete base.
Flaws:
- adjustment and repair automatic system control, in case of failure, will cost the consumer a pretty penny.
The best solid fuel pellet boilers
Pellet boilers are large installations equipped with bunkers for granulated wood waste. The sizes of such granules range from 5 to 70 millimeters in length and from 6 to 10 millimeters in thickness. This is the longest-lasting method of heating a room. The duration of heating directly depends on the volume of the adjacent bunker, and can be 2-12 days. The main disadvantage of such boilers is scarce fuel. Granulated pellets are not sold everywhere, so there is a high probability of equipment downtime.
3 ZOTA Pellet 100A
The optimum ratio of price and quality
Country Russia
Average price: 379,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
One such boiler is more than enough to heat an entire building, where there is a water heating system with a pre-installed pump for forced circulation. Manipulation of all aspects of the system is reduced to the electronic control panel. This system is truly indestructible - unless, of course, the user has the opposite goal. The rated power of the boiler reaches 100 kilowatts, but it can be reduced by regulating the air supply. The supply of pellets to the firebox is regulated in the same way. The only and most significant drawback of the system is the excess weight of the structure. 829 kilograms - that’s how much this unit weighs, which is not so easy to move even within the scope of the delivery task, not to mention the final installation.
Advantages:
- the price corresponds to the stated parameters;
- fuel is supplied to the combustion chamber by a screw mechanism;
- an electronic control system controls all aspects of the installation's functionality;
- high rated power.
Flaws:
- very heavy weight of the structure.
2 ACV TKAN 100
Optimal set of parameters in a lightweight package
Country: Belgium
Average price: 554,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Almost a complete analogy of the lower model, ACV (ATsV) TKAN 100 is one of the best pellet boilers on the world market. Screw feed mechanism, availability electronic system control, rated power of 100 kilowatts - all this is not new. The main difference between the two models lies in the price and weight parameters - the ACV weighs only 595 kilograms (significantly less than its opponent), but costs one and a half times more. However, based on the words of experts and those rare users who dealt with this boiler (mainly at large enterprises), we can conclude that its quality parameters are very high.
Advantages:
- not the heaviest weight of the structure;
- high level of efficiency (90%) and rated power;
- the presence of an electronic control system that exercises full control over ongoing processes;
- screw fuel supply mechanism.
Flaws:
- high price.
1 PELLUX COMPACT
The best compact model. Highest level Efficiency (92%)
Country: Sweden
Average price: 220941 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0
Although not large, the high-performance model of the PELLUX COMPACT pellet boiler can boast a high efficiency value - as much as 92 percent at the optimal operating level. All this and much more is the result of the vigorous activity of the Swedish company NIBE, specializing in the production of solid fuel boilers. This efficiency value is achieved by the installed burner, which has a positive effect on reducing the consumption of granulated pellets while increasing the release of thermal power. Another clear advantage is the presence of a replacement mesh in the combustion chamber, which allows you to turn a pellet boiler into a pyrolysis boiler by replacing the pellets with dry logs.
Advantages:
- economical burner, which reduced fuel consumption and increased thermal power;
- availability of automated electronic control;
- the ability, if necessary, to switch to another type of fuel - from pellets to firewood and vice versa;
- high level of efficiency;
- high build quality.
Flaws:
- no serious deficiencies were found.
The best double-circuit solid fuel boilers
Double-circuit boilers are superior to the models already discussed in that they are used not only for heating a house, but also for providing hot water supply. This is one of best solutions for private houses located in areas where gas connection is impossible and there are often power outages. Double-circuit solid fuel boilers are economical to operate and many models fully satisfy the needs of users for heat and hot water.
3 Burzhuy-K T-50A-2K
Possibility of heating large areas
Country Russia
Average price: 156,520 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
One of the most powerful solid fuel double-circuit pyrolysis boilers. Designed for heating large areas up to 500 m2, can be used for heating cottages and industrial premises and providing hot water supply in them. Thanks to the complete autonomy of the boiler, it can be used in places where electricity is not available. You can load firewood, wood processing waste and coal of any brand into the firebox. Fuel consumption is very economical - the boiler operates for up to 10 hours on one fill. This produces a small amount of ash, so there is no need for frequent cleaning. The boiler is made of high-quality materials and has a long service life (about 15 years), which is confirmed by user reviews.
Advantages:
- heating of areas up to 500 m2;
- reliability, safety and durability;
- ease of management and maintenance;
- work up to 10 hours on one bookmark;
- large selection of fuel and its economical consumption.
Flaws:
- high price.
2 Kiturami KF-35A
Best efficiency and cost-effectiveness
Country: South Korea
Average price: 121,770 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
The pyrolysis solid fuel boiler is equipped with a second circuit for producing hot water. Many users consider this model one of the best options for rural areas, small houses with an area of up to 100 m2. The boiler is characterized by high efficiency (85%) and economical fuel consumption due to a heat exchanger with three combustion stages. Additional savings are achieved by turning off the boiler fan when the required temperature is reached.
Up to 40 kg of firewood can be simultaneously unloaded into the oversized combustion chamber, so constant monitoring of the boiler operation is not required. Instead of firewood, you can use wood briquettes. Operational safety is also enhanced by the presence of overheating and water level sensors.
Advantages:
- electronic control, display;
- high efficiency;
- economical fuel consumption;
- stable temperature maintenance;
- operational safety;
- good feedback.
Flaws:
- can only be heated small areas up to 100 m2.
1 Karakan 16TPEV 3
The lowest price
Country Russia
Average price: 25,300 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
A domestically produced universal solid fuel boiler is designed for heating private houses with an area of up to 160 m2, garages, greenhouses, and small industrial premises. It has two circuits for heating and hot water. At the top there is a hob with one burner for cooking. The boiler is made well, from good quality steel. The service life is ensured by a “water tower” surrounding it on all sides, preventing overheating and burnout of the metal.
The functionality of the model is enhanced by some design features provided by the manufacturer. It is possible to equip the boiler with a gas burner - it is installed instead of the ash pan. There is also a hole for mounting a heating element on the side surface, which allows you to use electricity as a backup fuel. Despite the low cost, positive reviews prevail about the model.
Advantages:
- two circuits;
- the presence of a hob;
- possibility of installing a heating element and a gas burner;
- high quality workmanship;
- deep firebox (56 cm);
- outlet water temperature up to 95 degrees.
Flaws:
- not the highest efficiency (75%).
Autonomous heating has many advantages over centralized heating. You can turn it on and off at your own discretion, regulate the temperature and significantly save on operation. The main thing is to choose the most the best way heating - gas or solid fuel.
Features of gas boilers
Models running on “invisible” fuel have two undeniable advantages - they take up little space and are very affordable. They are ideal for houses and even apartments where there is no space to store firewood, briquettes or coal. Due to the closed combustion chamber and forced draft, which takes air from the street, there is no need to install the boiler in a separate room. His small sizes allow you to hang the unit almost anywhere.
Gas boilers have a large selection of dual-circuit models. They not only heat the room, but also provide the home hot water. Such devices are very economical: there is no need to spend extra money, because the water is heated simultaneously with the general heating system.
Solid fuel boilers: pros and cons
As a rule, models running on solid fuel are chosen by owners of non-gasified houses. The most profitable are units that use wood waste - sawdust and shavings. In addition, many boilers can simultaneously “consume” different types fuel.
Of particular interest are models with additional function stoves. The top surface is made of cast iron. It may have removable rings. When cooking, such solid fuel boilers allow you to save electricity or gas.
It is believed that gas models are more practical, since they do not need to be constantly looked after. However, you can choose a device equipped with a hopper and automatic download. Ignition, fuel supply and circulation pump operation are regulated without human control. Can be connected to many models room thermostat and use it to adjust the temperature. With one load of coal, the boiler can operate for up to 24 hours.
When choosing solid fuel boilers, you should know that they have one significant drawback: before installation, you need to equip a special boiler room with good exhaust.
Universal combined models
If you can’t decide between two types of boilers, you can purchase a combined unit. It works well on both gas and wood or coal.
However, it should be understood that installing such a boiler will not be cheap - at least two to three times more expensive than conventional models. But in the future, such devices are very practical to use and allow you to save a lot of money.
Before choosing a specific model, you need to calculate all possible costs: purchase, installation, fuel consumption. For example, gas boilers They are much cheaper, but cutting into a gas pipeline can cost a considerable amount. On the other hand, building a room for storing coal and firewood can also be problematic. Therefore, only after weighing all the pros and cons, you can provide your home with heat for many years.
