Frequently Asked Questions About Biomass

What is biomass?

Biomass is organic material (plants or animal waste, most commonly wood) of recent origin (i.e. not including fossil fuels). When we talk about biomass as a home heating fuel, we are generally talking about wood, in the form of logs, pellets or chips.

Will I need to change my existing heating distribution system?

Biomass boilers can be used with existing radiators and underfloor heating, or as part of a warm air heating system. If you currently have electric storage heaters and want to install a biomass boiler, then a new heating distribution system will need to be installed.

What controls are available?

Boilers and stoves are available with thermostatic temperature controls, programmers and timers as with modern oil/gas boilers. Stoves generally use fans to give an even heating temperature.

Will my system give off smoke?

A well installed system using high quality dry fuel will usually burn without any visible smoke.

What maintenance is needed?

Boilers produce typically less than 1% ash, which can be used as a fertiliser in your garden. Some appliances, particularly boilers, have self-cleaning systems built in, or compacting ash-collection pans that need emptying typically once a month. They will need to be swept out regularly.

What is typical lifetime of boiler/stove?

Biomass appliances will last around 20 years if kept in good repair throughout their life.

What size of system will I need?

This will depend on your home energy use and current level of insulation – better insulation leads to lower energy requirements. A typical 3-bed semi-detached house needs around 15kW, a large detached house may need 20kW or more. Sizing of heating systems should be done by a qualified heating engineer – oversizing will increase capital outlay and running costs. Any improvements to insulation should be carried out prior to sizing.

How much will fuel cost a year?

Fuel costs generally depend on the choice of fuel, distance from your supplier and whether you can buy in large quantities. See savings table for comparison to current fuel.

What if I run out of fuel?

Some pellet boilers have adjustable settings that will allow them to burn other types of fuel. Can also have gas/oil back up supply or integrated solar thermal panels.

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