How to choose a coal boiler for heating a private house

For efficiency and comfort, selecting the ideal heating system for your house is essential, particularly in areas with harsh winters. A coal boiler is one common option that many homeowners take into consideration. Modern coal boilers provide effective heating options for individuals looking for an alternative to conventional gas or electric systems, even though coal may not be used as frequently as it once was.

It is crucial to comprehend the operation of coal boilers and the reasons they could be a good fit for your house before delving into the specifics of selecting one. Heat is produced by burning coal in coal boilers, and that heat is then transferred throughout the house via underfloor heating, baseboard heaters, and radiators. This technique offers steady and dependable warmth, even during the coldest weather.

Size is one of the most important things to take into account when choosing a coal boiler. To ensure best performance and energy efficiency, the boiler size should be matched to the heating requirements of your home. The right size boiler for your needs depends on a number of factors, including the size of your home, the amount of insulation, and the climate where you live.

The kind of coal that is used in the boiler is another crucial factor. Coal comes in a variety of forms, each with unique qualities and burning qualities. For instance, bituminous coal is a common option for coal boilers since it burns cleaner and tends to produce more heat than other types. It’s critical to investigate the various coal options in your area and select one that addresses both your heating requirements and environmental concerns.

It’s also crucial to take maintenance needs, emissions, and efficiency into account when choosing a coal boiler. Many models of modern coal boilers have efficiency ratings that are on par with those of other heating systems, demonstrating their high level of efficiency. Furthermore, cleaner-burning coal boilers with lower emissions are now a more environmentally friendly option than older models thanks to technological advancements.

In conclusion, there are a number of factors to carefully consider when selecting a coal boiler for your home’s heating needs, such as size, coal type, efficiency, and emissions. You can choose a coal boiler that maximizes energy efficiency and minimizes environmental impact while providing dependable warmth by knowing your heating needs and investigating your options.

Considerations	Recommendations
Heating Needs	Calculate your house"s heating requirements.
Size of the Boiler	Choose a boiler size that matches your heating needs.
Fuel Efficiency	Opt for a boiler with high fuel efficiency to save on costs.
Environmental Impact	Look for boilers with low emissions to minimize environmental impact.
Brand Reputation	Research reputable brands known for reliable boilers.
Installation Costs	Consider installation expenses when budgeting.
Maintenance Requirements	Choose a boiler with manageable maintenance needs.
Warranty	Check for a warranty to safeguard against potential issues.

What are solid fuel coal boilers

Anthracite, stone, long-flare, gas, black, brown coal, pressed briquettes, and some other types of solid fuel can be burned in a solid fuel boiler, a contemporary heating device, to produce energy and heat the coolant subsequently.

In actuality, direct (below-up) combustion boilers are the direct descendants of the old Russian furnace; however, if the massive stone (brick) design is laid even in the early phases of the house’s construction, a smaller device can be integrated with the current system.

Application and effectiveness

In areas where there are issues with the connection to the gas supply system, residential and commercial buildings (dachas, cottages, offices) are equipped with coal boilers. The best option for heating a private home up to 100–150 m 2 is a coal boiler.

Comparison of the efficiency of boilers powered by various fuel types:

Type of energy resource	Heat -making, MJ (kW)/kg (m 3)	Fuel price, rub./ton (m 3)	Efficiency	The cost of kW of energy, rub.
brown (W ≈ 20–40 %)	12.9 (3.6)	2700–3200	70 %	1.71–1.27
Stone (W 7-15 %)	27.1 (7.5)	6000–7000	70 %	1.14–1.34
Anthracite (W ≈ 1-3%)	31.1 (8.7)	8000–8500	70 %	1.31–1.40
natural gas	36.5 (10.3)	5400-5700	90 %	0.63-0.65
Firewood (W ≈ 60–50 %)	8.1 (2.2)	1300-1500	60 %	0.98–1.05
Firewood (W ≈ 30–20 %)	11.2 (3.1)	1500–1800	60 %	0.76-0.83
granules (pellets)	17.2 (4.7)	7000–9000	85 %	1.75–2.25
Briquettes (Evodrova)	16.1 (4.3)	6000–8500	85 %	1.65–2.32

As the table illustrates, a coal boiler is by no means the most cost-effective choice when considering gas and wood units.

Coal has a lower combustion efficiency and, in the literal sense, some of the fuel cost will go toward paying for "garbage waste" because it leaves a lot more ash behind than gas, which burns almost entirely.

Firewood is coal’s second closest competitor. While they are undoubtedly less expensive, they are less practical to use because, in addition to needing to be brought to the desired fraction (or to purchase stabbed, which is more expensive), you also have to add firewood to the furnace every three to five hours, whereas coal burns for six to ten hours.

Device and principle of operation

The coal boiler’s essentially constructive device is the same as that of any other solid fuel unit; it is composed of the following nodes:

• the external spacious cylinder, which is also the case;
• a layer of heat -insulating material covered with facing panels;
• the inner cylinder located along one axis (coaxial) with the first;
• combustion chamber (firebox), allotted to the lower part of the inner cylinder;
• a hole adjustable to the sash (blown), to create and enhance traction;
• variable system from air -outlet and air supply pipes;
• ash collection and instrumental equipment (optional).

Reference: The inner and outer cylinders are incompatible; there must always be room (a water shirt) for the coolant to flow freely. In this instance, the quantity of water that is heated simultaneously is directly determined by the clearance’s value.

The basic idea behind how the furnace works is very straightforward: air enters the furnace through the chimney thrust, which ignites the coal and releases heat gases. They heat the interior walls in turn, transferring heat either directly to the water circulating in the heat exchanger system or converting it into hot steam.

After completing the entire cycle (circuit), the heated water is recycled back to the boiler via the pipes of the home’s heating system and/or hot water supply (DHW). Exhausted thermal gases enter the chimney, where their energy keeps the temperature just right for traction-building.

Reviews of household boilers on coal: Advantages and disadvantages

Because private homes have been heated by coal boilers for a very long time, they can be assessed as objectively as possible because of years of experience and owner feedback.

Advantages	Flaws
For a long time of work – coal burns out slower than most of the other fuel (firewood – 2–2.5 times, pellet – 2.5-3 times)	high price – The price of even the most primitive coal boilers is quite comparable with the price of gas units
Simple design – An ordinary boiler is quite simply arranged, which guarantees protection against the appearance of random breakdowns	Division of the household premises – The unit itself and fuel reserves should be separate from living rooms
Universality – a coal boiler can burn any hard fuel, the only question is to reduce power (up to 20–40 %)	constant control and management – boilers without electronics are launched only manually and require supervision
independence from external factors – many models are completely autonomous (energy -dependent) and do not need access to electric networks	Damage to ecology – coal dust and other particles of combustion products pollute the surrounding space

Additionally, users observe that as system pressure decreases, heating occurs more slowly and monthly fuel consumption rises. It is not appropriate to attribute this to the negatives, t. To. The issue is caused by the banal cluster of the scale, which affects all hot water boiler units in addition to those that burn coal.

Coaling boilers on coal

A more sophisticated device is used in coal boilers; instead of being positioned above the combustion chamber as in the traditional model, the heat exchanger is now behind or surrounding it. This alters the furnace process itself, causing the coal to burn out very slowly (smoldering without flame) from the upper layer to the lower, significantly reducing the amount of coal used.

Regular air intake is essential for optimal oxidation, which is why these boilers have an upper burning system set up where air is pumped directly into the coal burning zone. By using this combustion method, refueling frequency is reduced by approximately 1.5–2 times.

Efficiency and selection criteria for coal-fired long-term combustion boilers

Pyrolysis coal boilers

The primary characteristic of pyrolysis type units is that they have two linked furnaces: one furnace produces hot gases at a temperature of between 1200 and 1300 degrees Celsius when coal is heated, and the other furnace cools the gases by allowing them to escape. 155–160 oC and essentially don’t produce smoke.

As a result, the extra energy needed to heat the coolant is released and the unburned particles of the withdrawal gases are oxidized. This extends the combustion time of a bookmark to 24–30 hours and accounts for the hopper for up to 4–7 days. It also improves boiler efficiency and guarantees the fullness of fuel combustion.

Selecting the ideal coal boiler for your house’s heating needs is essential for reasons of economy, comfort, and environmental effect. Prior to getting started, think about things like the size of your home, what kind of coal is available in your area, and your heating requirements. Selecting a boiler with a high energy efficiency rating will help you cut down on fuel usage and your carbon footprint. To guarantee trouble-free operation, look for models with simple maintenance options and safety features. Give respectable brands that are renowned for their dependability and durability additional weight. Purchasing a coal boiler is a big choice, so do your homework and make an informed selection to save money and have long-term warmth for your home.

Bunker automatic boiler units

Automatic coal boilers are different from their predecessors in that all work process adjustments are made entirely or partially (in the case of semi-automatic models) by a programmable microprocessor controller that is linked to sensors and thermal controllers.

The forced air supply system (superchargers) and the traction system for exhaust product removal enable extended combustion.

A loading hopper, which is a metal box with a screw transporter inserted from the bottom, is provided to ensure that the refueling process continues uninterrupted.

The built-in fuel tank in the bunker coal boiler has enough capacity to last for two to seven days on average. If fuel is obtained from an independent mechanized storage, however, its capacity may last for up to four weeks or the whole heating season.

Which to choose: in detail about the characteristics that you should pay attention to

The project will assist in making the right decision because it outlines all of the specifications for the design parameters, communication connectivity options, room installation data, etc. D. The operational features of the device itself receive particular attention in the documentation.

Direct, long burning or pyrolysis

Comparison of various combustion technologies for coal boilers:

Direct burning	Long burning	Pyrolysis
Maximum efficiency	65–75 %	78–84 %	85–92 %
Autonomous work	no Yes	no Yes	Yes
Energy dependence	no Yes	no Yes	Yes
Refueling period	6–10 h/––	12–18 hours./1-2 d.*	24-30 hours./4–7 d.*
Fuel moisture	W ≈ 30-50 %	W ≈ 20-30 %	W ≈ 7-15 %
Permissible faction	up to 60–80 mm	up to 25-50 mm	up to 5–25 mm

* the time needed for refueling while accounting for the integrated automated bunker

It is therefore best to select this option if the home owner’s plans do not include nightly refueling and continuous supervision of the unit’s operation. It can be concluded that fuel combustion cannot be more efficiently achieved than in an automatic pyrolysis boiler.

Nonetheless, it is important to take into account how exacting the fuel quality is, find a dependable source for fine coal, or buy a crusher. Furthermore, this type of heater functions solely through automation, meaning that it requires constant power supply.

Primary heat exchanger material (case)

One of the key elements influencing the heating system’s longevity and maintainability is the material used to make the coal boiler’s case:

• steel – light plastic material, which calmly withstands pressure and temperature changes, but is prone to corrosion and through burning;
• cast iron – durable material that allows the use of large capacities of the boiler, but does not tolerate blows and sharp temperature fluctuations.

A high-quality "boiler" metal with a thickness of more than 4 mm will likely cause the hole to brew even with minor damage to the steel heat exchanger; however, if the cast iron develops even the smallest crack, the entire detail will need to be replaced.

Many manufacturers create boilers with a steel casing and a cast-iron firebox because they like to combine the benefits of both materials.

Single -circuit or double -circuit

The number of contours determines how the boiler distributes the heat it produces:

• single -circuit – intended exclusively for the heating of the room, is connected to the battery system (radiators) and heats the water only for them;
• Double -circuit -It is used not only for heating the house itself, but also for heating water of sanitary purposes, as well as for "warm floors".

Reference: Thermal power in a stable heating heater for a hot water supply should always adjust to the water’s flow.

Since solid fuel combustion cannot be adjusted dynamically in real time, the only boiler that can operate profitably is one that uses the thermal energy produced by burning gas. e. pyrolysis type, and even then not always, considering regional variations in coal prices.

A single outline can be used to set up a hot water supply system. In order to accomplish this, an indirect heating boiler must be connected. This will enable water to circulate via pipes and enter the storage tank, heating the water inside thanks to an integrated heat exchanger.

The minimum necessary power and heated area

The ratio of 100 W for every m² of room area is the most widely used method of calculating the desired power in an informal setting.

Q is equal to S × 100.

• where Q is the required thermal energy for heating the room (kW);
• S – heating area (m²), 100 – specific power, norm per unit area (W/m²).

As an illustration, for a 17.6 m² room, Q = 17.6 × 100 = 1760 W ≈ 1.8 kW

Generally speaking, the computation is done exactly "from small to large." To put it simply, the value of each room is calculated independently, and the total is then calculated. This makes it possible to determine the desired power as well as the number of radiators that will eventually be needed.

One more detail: power is determined based on the maximum amount of thermal coal that can be burned in the aggregate. Such heat cannot be produced with a firebox with other angles, so it is advised to make a power supply of 10% to 20% so that the equipment will not operate at maximum capacity even in the coldest weather.

What kind of coal is best to use to heat a home solid fuel boiler?

Efficiency

The ratio of fuel consumed to usable heat released by the aggregate is displayed by the utility coefficient, also known as efficiency.

Since this is the most significant factor affecting how well heating equipment performs, greater efficiency is obviously preferable. As was previously mentioned, the indicator for a coal boiler varies between 65 and 92%, depending on the design, kind of combustion, and level of work process automation.

Other important selection criteria

After determining the coal boiler’s primary parameters, you can also consider the following extra features of the unit of interest:

• Smokewood device – the degree of heat of heat with gases depends on the knees of the chimney, so the three -way system is more effective than single -bed;
• The volume of the combustion chamber – the larger the size of the firebox (considered in l/kW), the less often you need to report fuel and the longer the battery life;
• Management and functionality -boiler equipment can be equipped with a thermostat, weather-dependent automation, a self-cleaning system and a mobile GSM module;
• External thermal insulation – good insulation allows you to reduce the loss of beneficial energy, preventing sharp temperature differences and cooling of the boiler;
• The presence of lining – Flying chambers with lining are more economical, because they consume 25–45 % less fuel at an equal level of power;
• security – to protect against overheating, an external heat exchanger is provided or an independent cooling circuit, and emergency thermal class.

Reference: Deformation (folding) of the boiler’s walls is the most frequent way for it to break. Contrary to popular belief, this occurs because of banal overheating rather than high pressure (which is generated by the safety subversive valve). However, not all units have built-in protection.

Best famous manufacturers and models: characteristics and prices

Russian coal boilers have gained popularity recently because of their consistently rising quality and relatively low price when compared to their international counterparts. However, boilers made by European manufacturers continue to be the most automated and functional. Note that nearly every model has multiple power versions.

Direct combustion

Zota "Master" 20

With a 20 kW capacity, the Zota Master is an extremely affordable isolated boiler made of basalt cardboard. It can operate on almost any fuel, including coal, wood, pellets, and gas (optionally), and it can withstand pressure of up to 3 bar. In addition, he employs electricity as a supplemental heat source (TEN).

Russia’s TPK LLC "Krasnoyarskenergokomplekt" is the producer country.

Protherm "Beaver" 20 DLO

The 20 kW Protherm "Bobur" boiler is an energy-dependent boiler with a maximum working pressure of 4 bar and a longer service life, t. To. It makes use of a cutting-edge cast-iron heat exchanger (GG20), which is immune to heat stroke and corrosion. can only be submerged in different woods and angles.

Producer Nation: LLC Vaillant Group (Viland Group Rus.), Slovakia.

Bosch "Solid" 2000 b sfu 12

With a 13, 5 kW capacity, the Bosch "Solid" 2000 b SFU is a straightforward, dependable boiler that can burn wood waste, coke, stone coal, and firewood in addition to brown coal. equipped with gas turbulenters, thermal protection, and an integrated pressure control device that limits pressure to 2 bar.

Germany-based Bosch LLC (Bosch thermotechnics Rus) is the producer.

Long burning

Stropuva S15U

With a 15 kW capacity, the Stropuva S15U is an unparalleled leader in compact boilers, capable of burning coal for up to 7 days, thanks to a volumetric furnace that holds up to 240 kg of coal. uses firewood, briquettes, coal, and pellets while maintaining a maximum pressure of three bars.

Producer: Stropuva, LLC Russia-Lithuania (Stropuva).

81 500–99 778 rubles is the cost.

Boilers that can burn a single fuel for up to seven days

Buderus "Logano" S181-15 E

One of the best bunker automatic coal boilers for heating a private home is the 15 kW Buderus "Logano" S181-15 E, which has integrated gas and water temperature sensors. Long-term coal or pellet burning is made possible by the enhanced heat exchanger design, which can withstand pressures of up to 3 bar.

Germany-based Bosch LLC (Bosch thermotechnics Rus) is the producer.

252 000–258 840 rubles is the cost.

Liepsnele L20U

With a 20 kW capacity, the Liepsnele L20U solid fuel unit is nearly "omnivorous," meaning it can run on coal, firewood, coal briquettes and pellets, peat, wooden chips, and other wood waste. A complete coal lay can support burning for up to seven days. There is a 1.5 bar limit on the pressure level.

Lithuania, LLC is the production country. The UAB Vakaro Rasa (Vakaro Rasa).

Galmet "Carbo" 21

Galmet "Carbo" 21, a 22 kW Polish semi-automatic boiler, is a corner unit that is already equipped with a lot of sophisticated technology. It includes a smoke gas sensor, a thermometer, a pressure gauge, and a smart PID regulator that manages all of the boiler’s nodes and the combustion process. Maximum pressure: 2 bar.

Galmet LLC (Galmet-Rus), Poland-Russia, is the producer nation.

113 890–116 759 rubles is the cost.

Prices: Final table

Popular coal-burning boiler models and their corresponding price ratings:

Model of a coal boiler	Cost, rub.
Zota "Master" 20	34,000
Protherm "Beaver" 20 DLO	79 000
Bosch "Solid" 2000 b sfu 12	80 000
Stropuva S15U	81 500–99 778
Buderus "Logano" S181-15 E	252 000–258 840
Liepsnele L20U	110 000
Galmet "Carbo" 21	113 890–116 759
Zota "Carbon" 20	47 900–53 290
Teplodar "Kupper" OVK 10	23 050–25 680
Thermocrates "URAGAN" Prof 22	28 640–34 641

How to drown a coal boiler unit correctly

You must set up the boiler’s operation before turning it on:

• test the heating system for strength, increasing the pressure × 1.25;
• check the traction by bringing a strip of paper to the air supply damage;
• enable heating 80 ° C and correlate the thermometer data with the traction regulator;
• adjust the position of the damper to achieve the required temperature;
• Test the thrust by 90 ° C, at 95 ° C at the output, the damper should be closed by itself;
• After calibration, a constant temperature is set ≈ 80–85 ° C.

The boiler’s effectiveness is decreased due to the tightened kindergarten; therefore, it is advised to burn more light fuel with a lower efficiency initially, and only subsequently add fuel with a larger efficiency. For instance, you could begin kindling with paper and small, dry firewood, then add coal once they have completely burned.

It reduces subsequent maintenance to carrying out cyclic tasks:

• timely loading of coal into the furnace or bunker, if the boiler is automatic;
• removal of the upper cortical layer, sprinkled and fused pieces of coal;
• Cleaning the combustion chamber from slag and ash from accumulated waste.

Traditional boilers don’t have fuel requirements; they can run on practically any solid fuel, including household trash. However, high efficiency can only be attained with coal that has an ash content of up to 25% and a humidity content of up to 30%. If not, the efficiency will be significantly less than what the manufacturer claims.

However, because the design of prolonged burning and pyrolysis boilers was initially created for a specific standard, there are now stricter requirements for the fuel’s quality: the coal must not only be small (up to 20%) and low-zone (up to 15%), but also have a fixed size (between 5 and 25 mm).

Selecting a coal boiler for your home’s heating needs is a big choice that needs careful thought. With so many options on the market, it’s critical to determine your priorities and unique needs before selecting one.

First, think about how big your home is and how much heating it needs. Naturally, a larger home will need a more potent boiler to provide enough warmth throughout. Evaluating your home’s insulation is also essential because a well-insulated home will retain heat more efficiently, possibly enabling you to choose a smaller, more efficient boiler.

While coal is not the cleanest fuel option, modern boilers are designed to minimize emissions and maximize efficiency, reducing both environmental impact and fuel costs. When choosing a coal boiler, it’s important to prioritize efficiency and environmental impact. Look for models that are certified as environmentally friendly and energy-efficient.

Take into account the boiler’s maintenance needs as well. To guarantee longevity and optimum performance, regular maintenance is necessary. Select a model with easily accessible components and easy-to-follow maintenance instructions.

Lastly, remember to account for the cost of both installation and continuous operation. In areas where coal is easily accessible and reasonably priced, coal boilers can result in long-term fuel cost savings over alternative heating options, even though their initial cost may be higher.

To sum up, choosing the best coal boiler for heating your home requires giving careful thought to a number of factors, including cost, size, efficiency, environmental impact, and maintenance requirements. You can make an informed choice that will guarantee comfort, effectiveness, and sustainability for many years to come by comparing these factors to your unique needs and priorities.

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