Once you have determined your energy needs and the availability
of wood fuel, you need to pick the most suitable type of equipment
to meet your needs. A range of different types of technology is
available from the domestic to large-scale and it is only
possible to provide a basic outline in these pages. Expert
advice is essential. .Early dialogue with the fuel supplier
is also essential to make sure you choose the best option and
design for your scheme.
Apart from the wood-burning equipment, other key design
considerations include the boiler house, storage,
access for delivery, pipework, chimneys and
flues, and, if necessary, abatement
technology. In some cases, additional items such as
accumulator tanks will improve the efficiency of the system. If you
are planning to link several buildings on a district heating
scheme, special pre-insulated pipes will be needed. Whether you are
managing an installation yourself or using a
contractor, you need to check that the whole package
will meet your energy needs.
To achieve optimum operational and economic efficiency from your
boiler, it must be sized accurately - this will save you money,
time and trouble! An inaccurate design load will lead to reduced
efficiency, higher emissions and increased fuel use. For
further information see boiler sizing.