Outdoor wood furnaces offer homeowners a number of benefits when searching for alternative heat sources. They're an excellent option for those wishing to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on heating expenses. Outdoor wood boilers utilize a variety of fuels, such as seasoned firewood and pellets. Modern units use gasification technology for cleaner combustion and higher efficiencies.
Cost
Wood is a renewable resource and can help you save money on your energy bill. Additionally, it's carbon neutral and an environmentally friendly way to heat your home. However, an outdoor wood furnace can be a costly investment. You'll have to purchase firewood and store it, as well as load and unload it several times daily. If you don't have much spare time or energy, an indoor wood furnace may be more suitable.
If you're concerned with your furnace's environmental impact, opt for a high-efficiency model. These can be up to 26% more efficient than traditional furnaces. They can save you a considerable amount on your energy bill, making the initial cost of an outdoor wood furnace seem worthwhile. The cost of an outdoor wood furnace varies based on its size and features. Standard efficiency models usually range between $7,500 to $16,000 installed, while high-efficiency units could reach up to $36,000 in price tag.
Some models can be dual-fuel, switching to natural gas or liquid propane in case your supply of wood runs out. You can use this feature for heating during peak demand periods or emergency backup heating, potentially saving money on your energy bill. Other options include coal-burning units, which are popular in areas where there is abundant coal. These machines generate enormous amounts of heat and can be used to heat an entire property or multiple buildings simultaneously. You can even add a brazed plate heat exchanger to an outdoor wood furnace for radiant in-floor heating or use it as snow melt system, potentially saving more than half the cost of your utility bills. Another alternative is to pair an outdoor wood boiler with an indoor forced hot air furnace. This combination provides heat for your home as well as useable hot water for garages, barns or pools in one unit.
Installing an outdoor wood furnace varies based on where you live and the unit's size and features. You'll need a trench that measures 50 to 150 feet long depending on how far away your furnace is from your house. Additionally, underground tubing must be buried which is costly and may lose some heat during transit.
Energy Efficiency
Outdoor wood furnaces are an energy-saving alternative for heating your home or business. They're an excellent alternative to traditional heating methods like electric, propane or fuel oil and they can even be used for cooking food! One of the greatest advantages of an outdoor wood furnace is that you can save money on your heating bill. This is because wood burns more efficiently outdoors than indoors and requires less material, resulting in significant cost-savings for consumers.
Another advantage of an outdoor wood furnace is that it can be installed in any structure, from a shed to a garage. This makes it more convenient and safer to operate since only one location needs to tend to the fire. Your outdoor furnace can heat up to several buildings and even provide domestic hot water. Not only does this save money on your heating bill, but it's a fun addition to the property!
Your outdoor wood furnace's efficiency depends on three factors: the quality of the wood you feed it, its moisture content, and how well the furnace burns it. Seasoned wood should only contain 20% moisture while freshly cut green wood may contain up to 50% moisture which wastes a significant amount of BTUs in your furnace. Maintaining your outdoor wood furnace is essential to keep it working optimally. Regular cleanings remove creosote buildup that can reduce its heat output and prevent the wood from burning properly.
Finally, ensure your outdoor wood furnace is placed correctly. This is because the smoke produced by an outdoor furnace can be an annoyance and should be placed where prevailing winds won't blow it away or cause it to smell unpleasant. Fortunately, there are various outdoor furnace types to choose from. Prices for these units vary and they make for a great addition to any property.
Convenience
Homeowners in rural areas or those with large properties where trees grow abundantly can benefit from outdoor wood furnaces as a convenient heating source. It also allows you to utilize wood as a renewable resource and reduce your carbon footprint. Outdoor wood furnaces can be used to heat multiple buildings and are an attractive choice for those looking to save money on their energy bill. They tend to be more cost-effective than gas or oil heating systems, plus they provide an unlimited supply of hot water in addition to providing heat.
Another advantage of outdoor wood furnaces is that they can be integrated with various heating systems, such as forced air or radiant in-floor heat. Furthermore, these furnaces can heat domestic water and pools and even work for snow melt applications. When shopping for an outdoor wood furnace, the first thing that should be taken into account is where it will go. Choose a spot that makes loading and unloading it convenient while keeping it out of sight of neighbors so they won't have to deal with piles of wood or ash.
When installing your furnace, ensure the area is well insulated as this can allow heat loss during extended operations. Furthermore, bury the pipes beneath the frost line to avoid freezing in cold weather. Finally, make sure your wood furnace is properly seasoned. Doing so will prevent creosote buildup and enhance its performance. Finally, it's wise to have your furnace professionally inspected prior to installation. Outdoor furnaces can be hazardous, so it's best to hire someone experienced with wood-burning furnaces for this task.
If you have any queries about outdoor wood furnaces or would like more information about the various models available, don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We can assist in determining which option is best suited for your home and family!
Maintenance
Outdoor wood furnaces are an excellent way to save money, energy and reduce your carbon footprint. But like any other heating device, they require regular upkeep in order to run optimally and effectively. Outdoor wood furnaces are relatively straightforward to maintain and require little time or energy. Furthermore, they may be a wise investment as you will save money on heating expenses in the long run.
Here are a few basic steps you can take to guarantee your furnace is operating optimally: First, check the water level in the tank to make sure it's full. Doing this helps avoid your unit from overheating and potential damage. Next, verify the airflow around the flame to make sure it's functioning optimally. Do this by opening up doors slightly and pulling them open slightly so air can circulate inside.
Additionally, make sure all gaskets and seals are functioning correctly to guarantee no leakage. If not, it may be necessary to replace them. If you observe creosote buildup in the firebox and lower combustion chamber, it is recommended to clean the furnace using its included service tools. Once the house has been thoroughly cleaned, be sure to dispose of the ashes in a metal container.
Additionally, you may want to consult with your insurance company to confirm the wood boiler is adhering to their safety requirements. Finally, be sure to consult your local building codes regarding the installation and use of an outdoor wood furnace. These regulations can differ from city to city and county to county.
If you would like to find out more about installing and using an outdoor wood furnace, reach out to your local contractor or HVAC technician. They are invaluable resources and will assist in determining the most suitable option for your home or business. Furthermore, they may suggest the type of furnace best suited to your requirements.