Using a wood burning or multi-fuel stove for central heating.

A wood burning stove or multi-fuel stove can be part of a central heating system to keep your house warm and provide hot water. While there are several ways to achieve this, the basic principle is generally the same: some of the heat energy produced by burning wood or other fuel in a stove is transferred to the water in your tank which is pumped to the radiators around the house.

Installation costs of a stove and boiler can be similar to the price of setting up other home heating systems. However, as wood burning or multi-fuel stoves tend to be more energy efficient than other heating devices, many people find that a stove attached to a central heating system helps to significantly reduce monthly fuel bills and carbon emissions. As the cost of gas and electricity continues to rise, more and more of us are switching to wood burning stoves to heat our homes. 

A qualified heating engineer can advise you on which boiler and system will be right for your home and heating requirements. Here are some of the factors that need to be considered:

1. What type of boiler do I need?
   
   To provide maximum efficiency, economy and comfort, your stove and boiler need to suit the particularities of your home and heating requirements. Your decision may depend on whether you are adding a boiler to an existing stove or installing a completely new central heating system. A clip-in back boiler can be added to a separate stove, whereas an integral back boiler, which tends to be more efficient, is fitted to the stove by the manufacturer.
   
   The material of the boiler will also be a consideration. For example, while stainless steel or glass-lined steel boilers tend to cost more than steel boilers, their durability may be seen as a long term investment.
    
2. What is the required heat output?
   
   A qualified heating engineer will be able to calculate the heat output, measured in kilowatts (KW), required for your home. This will depend on factors such as the size of the property, insulation, the average range of temperatures expected for that geographical location and the pattern of heat requirement determined by the domestic routine of you and your family.
    
3. What will suit my taste and decor?
   
   Due to the increasing demand for wood burning and multi-fuel stoves, models are available in a broad range of styles that vary from traditional cast iron stoves to more innovative and contemporary designs. Take time to consider the full range available or, if you are finding it difficult to decide, contact a reliable supplier who will help you find the right style and model to suit your taste and budget.