Biomass Boiler Types | The Different Types of Biomass Boilers

Written-by

Janet Richardson

Reviewed-by

Richard Burdett-Gardiner

Updated on

Oct 02, 2024

Biomass Boiler Types | The Different Types of Biomass Boilers

There are a vast amount of biomass boiler available, with varying costs, efficiencies, sizes and suitability, below are descriptions of the more common varieties.

Fully automated biomass boiler

Usually the most efficient type of biomass boiler: the wood - usually in the form of pellets or wood chips - is automatically fed into the boiler’s combustion chamber from a large hopper or silo (sometimes these can hold a year’s fuel) using an auger screw system.

A fully automated biomass boiler is a modern heating system designed to provide efficient and sustainable energy using organic materials, such as wood pellets, wood chips, or agricultural waste. These boilers are increasingly popular due to their low environmental impact. They use renewable biomass resources instead of fossil fuels.

The automation in biomass boilers simplifies the operation process, making them highly efficient. Once the fuel is loaded into the storage system, the boiler feeds the fuel automatically into the combustion chamber, adjusts the air supply, and manages the combustion process to ensure optimal performance. The system also automatically removes ash, which is a byproduct of burning biomass, further reducing the need for manual intervention and reducing maintenance demands. 

These boilers can heat homes, businesses, and industrial facilities of any size, and they can be integrated into existing heating systems. The initial cost of a fully automated biomass boiler may be higher than traditional heating systems, long-term fuel cost savings and environmental benefits make it a compelling choice. This is particularly useful if there is a local supply of accessible biomass to fuel the system. 

Combined heat and power (CHP) biomass systems

Biomass can also be used to fuel combined heat and power units, which generate both heat and electricity. CHP units are, however, very expensive for small scale domestic and business properties, and there are far cheaper ways of generating electricity. CHP systems can be suitable for larger buildings, and given that they produce electricity and heat energy, may be eligible for The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS).

Semi-automated Industrial biomass boilers

Less expensive than fully automated boilers, but requiring more input from a system operator, semi-automated systems are better suited to large installations such as farms and larger properties. These units come with an attached, large hopper that can accommodate a reasonable amount of fuel, but will require replenishing manually more often. These boilers have various operating modes - full, reduced and slumber with specially designed electronic controls.

Semi-automated industrial biomass boilers offer a balance between manual and automated systems, providing a cost-efficient and sustainable heating solution for larger facilities. Like other biomass boiler solutions, these boilers use organic fuel sources like wood chips, pellets, or agricultural waste, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

While they require manual fuel loading or periodic intervention for fuel management, they still automate essential functions like air control, combustion optimization, and ash removal. This reduces operational management compared to fully manual systems. Semi-automated biomass boilers are ideal for industries seeking a more sustainable energy solution without the high initial outlay of fully automated systems.

Semi-automatic residential biomass boilers

These boilers are compact in size and designed specifically for the residential market. They look great and can be situated in living areas as they resemble a standard log burner more than the larger units. Because of improvements in operating efficiency, aesthetic appearance and size, these units have become much more popular recently, especially in smaller properties.

Log-fed biomass boilers

Generally cheaper than boilers with automation, these are suitable for those with easy access to firewood. These must be hand fed, so can be rather time consuming with higher maintenance demands, however, with the right hot water buffer tank and optimised usage, these biomass boiler systems can be a very cost effective solution for those with a large property and reduced budget.

Log-fed biomass boilers are a traditional and cost-effective option for heating using renewable resources, offering a high temperature, on-demand heat solution. While they demand more frequent attention, log-fed biomass boilers are appealing for their simplicity, lower upfront costs, and the ability to utilize local, renewable wood resources.

Wood stoves

Wood stoves are a more basic option for biomass heating systems, but offer a great solution for those looking for a high temperature and efficient space heating solution. An open fire is by far the cheapest option but the overall efficiency is a meager 15-30%; this is because most of the heat is lost in a puff of smoke, up the chimney. Today’s wood stoves are highly efficient and can aid the heating requirements of a home and not just that of a single room. The ‘high efficiency’ and ‘clean burn’ models can offer an impressive 80% efficiency and can come with integral boilers, so hot water can be supplied as well.

Wood-burning stoves are a popular and efficient way to heat homes using wood as a renewable energy source. These stoves are designed to burn logs or wood pellets, providing warmth and a cozy ambiance. Modern wood-burning stoves are highly efficient, with advanced designs that allow for better combustion and reduced emissions compared to older models. They are often used as a primary or supplementary heat source, especially in rural areas or in less energy efficient properties. While they require manual loading and regular cleaning of ash, wood-burning stoves offer a sustainable alternative to traditional combustion boilers, making them both eco-friendly and cost-effective.