Biomass Boiler FAQ’s

The team takes a bit of time out to answer common questions we hear about owning a biomass boiler and biomass heating system. If there’s anything we haven’t answered here contact us and we’ll be sure to add it to this post.

What is a biomass boiler?

This is by far the most common question we hear. Biomass boilers are simply wood-fueled heating systems designed to provide heat to your home from a renewable source – saving you money and cutting CO2 emissions. With a biomass boiler, you get many benefits including monetary help from the RHI.

How reliable are they compared to my existing boiler?

We only sell top of the range, high-quality boilers, after all its in our best interest we will never install a boiler that is cheap and liable to breakdown.

Good biomass boilers are incredibly reliable and well-engineered products. They are designed to last around 20 years, unlike many other traditional heating methods.

Can I use my existing central heating and hot water system?

 Yes – Biomass boilers connect in the same way as your old heating system would; they are designed to work with the standard domestic heating system. However, If you feel your current system does not perform well enough and your current hot water cylinder is undersized or inefficient (in which case we can replace it), you can make use of your existing heating system.

Will my radiators still get as hot as they do with fossil fuels?

Yes – Your radiators will still be as hot if not hotter. Biomass boilers deliver temperatures of up to 80-degree, which is the same as a standard gas, boiler or LPG or oil boiler for that matter.

Will I need a hot water cylinder for a biomass boiler?

 Yes – the biomass boilers are designed to operate with a hot water cylinder. If you don’t already have one then we will install one as part of the installation procedure.

How do I know my system will qualify for the RHI?

We will only install systems that are eligible for the RHI, whether that is in the domestic or commercial scheme.

The full eligibility criteria is listed in our proposals, so make sure you read through this carefully to ensure you will qualify before placing an order. We can advise on your own unique circumstances as well.

Do I need a Green Deal Assessment?

No –this has recently been scrapped back in spring 2016

How much room do biomass boilers take?

Biomass boilers are much bigger than a standard gas appliance as part of our survey we will make sure you have the appropriate room for a boiler and hopper if required.

How controllable is the system compared with my current system?

 The pellet boilers we install are incredibly controllable and are super efficient too – thanks to state-of-the-art control sensors and pump stations.

How long will the installation take?

 A typical domestic installation takes five days, with more complicated or involved systems taking up to ten days.

Will I need a heat meter?

 Yes – soon in the spring we must meter every installation more information on this will no doubt be released soon.

What about my old boiler and oil tank?

 This is very much up to you – we can either take it away completely, remove it and leave it for you to sell or scrap, or leave it is a backup boiler (where possible).

Do I need planning permission?

 This depends on your individual circumstances, such as whether the building is listed, or whether you live in a conservation area.

How do I apply for the RHI?

The RHI application process is a simple online procedure accessible through the Ofgem website. When we commission you system we will provide you with all the paperwork and certification you need to qualify for the scheme.

We will help with all aspects of the application procedure in any way we can.

Will I have to load my boiler with pellets?

This depends if you have a bulk hopper installed then no, the hopper will automatically feed the boiler with pellets.

If you opt for a manual system then you will need to put bags into the hopper the frequency of this depends on your heat demand and our design a general rule is that you will need to top up with pellets every 1-2 day in winter and every 2-3 weeks in summer.

How often do I need to empty the ash pan?

 This will depend on your choice of biomass boiler, however, with most boilers this will need doing every two to three weeks.

What maintenance is required?

 It is important that you give your boiler an annual service. This is something we can do for you and we have a range of service contracts available.