Posted on: March 24, 2018 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

Biomass refers to anything that originated from living organisms. It can include cow dung, dinosaur bones and so on. However, in the realm of energy, biomass refers to plant-based materials like wood. However, when it comes to biomass stoves and boilers, it is good to note that the wood used is a bit refined. It is not just chopped up logs. Most stoves and boilers use densely compacted pellets of wood or wood chips. This does not mean you cannot burn your own chopped logs.

 

Biomass heating

Have you ever thought about what people used for heating before the age of electricity and oil? Well, they mostly relied on biomass heating. There are two main types of heating systems that use biomass. You can even install them in your home today.

  • Stoves – These burn pellets or logs and provide adequate heat for rooms. Some stoves are also fitted with water boilers which ensure a supply of hot water. The biomass stoves have an energy rating of about 7kW. This is enough to heat a typical home.
  • Boilers – These are larger and industrial-like. Biomass boilers heat the whole house by making use of radiators. They can also provide hot water. They can use logs that are stocked by hand or pellets that are fed automatically using a hopper.

 

Advantages

Not many people consider the option of eco-friendly stoves and boilers. However, when you take a look at the many benefits that come with these options, you might reconsider your choice. Here are the main advantages you stand to gain when you replace your heating system with the biomass one.

 

  • Renewable heat incentives

The world is moving towards green energy solutions. Focus is on reducing carbon emissions. To encourage this, most governments around the world are offering incentives to people who use eco-friendly systems. You will benefit from these incentives, thus reducing the payback period.

 

  • Cost saving

Biomass costs almost the same as mains gas. As the supply of biomass increases, you can expect the costs to go even lower. This is a more cost-effective option when you consider that gas prices are going up every other day.

 

  • Carbon-neutral

Yes, burning wood leads to the production of carbon dioxide but this emission can be absorbed by plants in the growing cycle. Biomass is carbon-neutral when you compare it to the carbon rich fossil fuels.

 

  • Social benefits

Unlike fossil fuel which has to be imported by most countries, biomass is pretty easy to source. The continued use of biomass stoves and boilers will therefore stimulate the local economy.

 

Yes, biomass stoves and boilers have some drawbacks, but the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. The only thing you need to do is to find the most efficient biomass stove or boiler and have it installed by a professional. Don’t go for the cheapest options out there. Chances are they have more limitations than you can live with. Due diligence is required to help identify the most reliable stove or boiler for your house needs.

 

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