Selecting the appropriate heating system for your house is essential to guaranteeing efficiency and comfort, particularly in the colder months. Choosing the best option for your needs can be overwhelming with so many options available, including firewood, gas, and electricity. To assist you in making the best choice for your home, we will examine the advantages and factors to take into account for universal heating boilers that run on gas, wood, or electricity in this guide.
Gas boilers are a common option among homeowners because of their affordability and high efficiency. They heat water with natural gas or propane and then distribute the heated water throughout your house via radiators or underfloor heating systems. Gas boilers are a dependable choice for people looking for convenience and dependability in their heating solution because of their rapid heat-up times and steady performance.
However, those who value the atmosphere and sustainability of burning wood tend to prefer firewood boilers, which provide a more conventional method of heating. These boilers heat water for distribution throughout the house by using wood pellets or logs as fuel and capturing the energy released during combustion. In spite of the fact that installing and maintaining a firewood boiler requires more labor-intensive work, in the long run, it can save a lot of money, particularly for homes that have access to free or inexpensive wood.
Electric boilers are an appealing alternative for people looking for adaptability and simplicity of use. These boilers, which run entirely on electricity, don’t require fuel to be stored or burned, which saves them space and helps the environment. For homeowners with limited space, electric boilers offer flexibility as they can be installed in multiple locations throughout the home and are frequently small in size. Electric boilers provide accurate temperature control and can be a cost-effective option for smaller homes or as an additional heating source in larger properties, even though local electricity rates may differ.
A number of factors need to be taken into account when deciding which type of universal heating boiler is best for your home, including initial costs, ongoing maintenance, fuel availability, and environmental impact. Every option has benefits and drawbacks, so you should weigh these factors against your unique needs and priorities to make an informed choice that will guarantee efficiency and comfort for years to come.
Universal | heating boilers |
gas | firewood |
electricity |
- Firewood – gas
- Gas is electricity
- Where to buy and what prices?
- Combined heating boiler: advantages, types, nuances of choice
- When you need a multi -fuel boiler: the pros and cons of the equipment
- Advantages of universal units
- Types of universal equipment
- Gas + liquid energy
- Hard energy + gas
- Liquid energy + gas + solid energy carriers
- Hard energy + electricity
- GAZ + electricity
- Four types of energy
- Nuances of choosing a multi -fuel boiler
- Popular brands of combined boilers
- De Dietrich
- Operation of combined boilers
- Varieties of combined heating boilers
- Design features
- Varieties
- Advantages and disadvantages of universal boilers
- Tips for successful acquisition
- Operation of universal boilers
- A few words about popular brands
Firewood – gas
Not any less well-liked is the gas-firewood hybrid heating boiler, which is offered by both domestic and foreign producers.
In addition to wood, peat briquettes, coal, and pellets can all be placed in a solid fuel firebox.
Gas boilers for heating that are structurally combined fall into two categories:
- Placed on the floor;
- Mounted to the wall.
The first kind is a powerful, comparatively large piece of equipment that is meant to heat up big spaces.
It is typical to install a boiler of this type in a different room. Compact models intended for residential heating comprise the second category.
The most well-liked by consumers are Finnish combined heating boilers, such as those made by Jama.
The majority of models function as heating elements for hot water systems and can be connected to multiple circuits.
Benefits of Drova gas boilers:
- Performance does not depend on gas and power supply;
- The level of emissions into the atmosphere is minimized;
- High efficiency – over 90%;
- The possibility of automatic switching between the fuel used;
- Easy to maintain and do not require specialized care.
Gas is electricity
A combined heating boiler and electricity is the most widely used model among those offered by the market that run on two different types of fuel, despite its low consumer popularity.
It is evident from the name that this type of equipment is not meant to lay solid-state fuel.
The benefits of using a solid fuel boiler for both gas and electricity heating are clear: are evident:
- Universality (use of two types of fuel);
- Work in automatic mode (since there is no need to carry out manual laying of solid fuel and removal of waste of its combustion, the process of switching is fully automated and does not require human participation);
- Economy and high efficiency.
However, there are a number of noteworthy disadvantages to such equipment:
- Complex structural features;
- Installation and preventive work is carried out only by a professional master;
- Performance depends on the availability of gas and power systems.
These combination boilers are more frequently installed to heat the summer cottages where seasonal residents reside.
They eliminate the need to handle and store solid-state fuel, which eventually dampens and becomes inappropriate. Additionally, there is a minimal chance that gas and power supply systems won’t function.
Where to buy and what prices?
The market is focused on purchasing combined heating boilers from both domestic (Raton, Metromash) and foreign (Viadrus, Ferroli) manufacturers.
Each of them has benefits and drawbacks. Every manufacturer provides their own line of equipment in two configurations: floor or wall.
It is advised to give preference to domestically produced brands because they are built to last even under the most demanding circumstances.
It is advised that you thoroughly familiarize yourself with the following features of a heating boiler before making your selection: power, linear dimensions, energy consumption (for models that come with an electric heater), and the number of connected contours.
The combined costs for the heating boilers that are being offered range widely:
- Single -circuit – from 300 at. e.;
- Multi -circuit – from 500 at. e.;
Expensive models can cost anywhere between $1,500 and $2,000. The total cost of an industrial boiler can be as much as $5,000–6,000.
Combined heating boiler: advantages, types, nuances of choice
One cannot exist in a country house without a dependable heating system. Warming the space is essential to prevent the structure from collapsing, even if you do not live there full-time. The dream of uninterrupted gas or electricity supplies for private property owners does not go away. Boilers with multiple fuels can handle the issue of unexpected power outages as well as inadequate gas pipe pressure. The design allows for multiple fuel types to be used concurrently by the units.
Utilizing combined heating boilers is convenient because it allows for the heating of different kinds of fuel.
When you need a multi -fuel boiler: the pros and cons of the equipment
Universal heating boilers solve the issue of uninterrupted supply of a warm house with a warmth. They make it possible to choose the fuel suitable for a specific situation. The installation of units will help with minimal financial costs over time to switch to an economical energy carrier. If in the future it is planned to gasify the settlement or supply to the House of Electricity, then it will prepare for this in advance. Replacing mono -fuel equipment is too expensive. Drilling hosts initially install combined boilers for heating the house. The combination of liquid energy, firewood, coal, gas, electricity is determined by the needs of the household. The availability of energy carriers in a particular area, the prices for them, the design of the building are taken into account.
Advantages of universal units
Purchasing boilers that function on a multi-fuel principle has more benefits than drawbacks. The following are some benefits of multi-fuel devices:
- The boiler produces heat without interruptions and forced stops
- Automation of processes – switching from one type of fuel to another occurs as the energy carrier is generated
- Saving when using various types of fuel
- Universal heaters supply the house with hot water, heat the room, help create comfortable living conditions
- Additionally, a boiler is connected
- Environmental friendliness and high efficiency
- The compact size of the unit is a significant advantage of multi -fuel apparatus
Beretta VR-5 combined boilers are pricey pieces of machinery.
One drawback of boilers operating concurrently on multiple fuel types is equipment cost. The most efficient boiler is known to be a 50 kW boiler. The functions that combined boilers perform are more modest the higher the power.
Multi-fuel units’ energy reliance makes total autonomy impossible to achieve without a backup generator installed. and the organization of specialized storage facilities is necessary for the storage of fuel.
Types of universal equipment
Boilers that use combined heating operate using two or more energy sources. Depending on the arrangement of energy carriers, different designs with pros and cons can be released. The floor-mounted structures produce heavy machinery that runs on multiple fuels.
Gas + liquid energy
The apparatus is acknowledged for its exceptional technical performance. In the event that gasification is planned in the future, units become the most popular. The boiler is set up to run on diesel fuel, though gas can also burn. The unit’s single combustion chamber and chimney design enable the burning of two different kinds of energy carriers during a minimal setup. A universal burner or an additional burner that is part of the boiler configuration is included with steam boilers.
Gas and liquid fuel are used by diesel boilers to operate.
The primary energy carrier selects whether to use liquefied or natural gas for the unit to operate. Diesel fuel serves as a fallback supply. The heat exchanger’s dependability dictates the equipment’s service life. Installing a gas-display boiler in a building with long-term tenants is advised.
One of the drawbacks is that diesel fuel must be stored in a designated area that has a protective capacity installed underneath.
Hard energy + gas
Solid fuels include coal, wood, pellets, and chips; however, "firewood and gas"—a mixture of gas and coal—is more frequently utilized. The primary energy sources are of the solid type; either gasification has not yet occurred or there are frequent disruptions in the supply of gas. The units must have a firebox if they are using combined gas and firewood or coal heating boilers as energy carriers. The equipment stands out due to its low automation and low efficiency. Since heating large areas with coal or firewood is already unprofitable, it is designed to heat small rooms only.
Boilers that run on gas or solid fuel must have a fully functional chimney that complies with all regulations regarding chimney laying. The machinery needs to be controlled constantly in order to operate. Coal, firewood, and gas make an excellent energy combination for heating temporary housing. The devices are the least expensive among all the heaters combined.
Ferroli Fer Mark RS 240 combined boiler and control panel
Liquid energy + gas + solid energy carriers
Because the structural characteristics of appliances that burn gas and diesel fuel are nearly identical, boilers that run on firewood and gas can also run on liquid fuel. Both the firebox and a functioning chimney are still required. The liquid fuel storage arrangement is included. The combustion process is only minimally automated. Constant control over the boiler’s operation is necessary.
Cost, adaptability, and quick reconfiguration from gas-burning to diesel-burning are among the benefits. For private homes, combined heating boilers powered by gas, diesel, wood, or coal are appropriate for structures with sporadic occupants and limited space. The price of units is democratic.
Hard energy + electricity
In homes where electricity is frequently disconnected or where there is no year-round habitation, combined fuel and electricity heating boilers are installed. The units are ideal for small buildings because their power ranges from 4 to 9 kW. Depending on the model, heaters that operate at 220 V can also be connected at 380 V. Separate buildings that run on electricity and coal or firewood can be connected at any voltage because they have a switch to select the appropriate voltage. The primary fuel used in electricity boilers is characterized by their high efficiency. As a backup, solid fuel is utilized.
Firewood is used when the house is visited for heating purposes, and when the hosts are not present, the electricity operates automatically. Since there is a combustion chamber in the firewood and electricity boiler, installing a chimney is required.
GAZ + electricity
By converting from electricity to gas, the universal boiler combines the benefits of both single-leg models. You can practically forget that your heating equipment is there thanks to automatic operation. When the installation of a gas and electricity-using apparatus is planned during the house project creation phase, it operates as efficiently as possible.
The attributes of a universal gas-electric boiler include compact size, maximum efficiency, eco-friendliness, and full automation. A chimney is installed in addition to a boiler that runs on electricity and solid fuel in order to eliminate combustion products from gas.
Power and gas are used in combined boilers.
Four types of energy
There are boilers that heat the coolant simultaneously using electricity, gas, firewood, and liquid fuel. The situation will determine which energy is best. It is not possible to go without heat when using such a boiler. It is as adaptable as possible.
Multifuel units are situated in homes that are difficult to access, intricately designed, or subjected to harsh environmental conditions; such equipment is not appropriate for a basic country home.
Large sizes are always associated with combined structures that burn gas, liquid, and solid fuels in addition to being powered by electricity. Operation requires the chimney and the area where liquid fuel is stored to be organized.
Nuances of choosing a multi -fuel boiler
The following factors are taken into consideration when choosing combined equipment to heat a home or cottage:
- Functionality – a clear understanding of the tasks that the equipment will perform. A single -circuit model is suitable for heating. If hot water supply is added, then a double -circuit boiler is selected on solid fuel or other energy carrier
- Power – boilers are produced up to 100 kW, but units up to 50 kW have the maximum set of useful functions. Such a boiler will perfectly cope with the heating of a two -story building of a large area
- Type of energy – all options are being worked out depending on availability and price
- Expediency – if the electricity turns off constantly and for a long time, then it makes no sense to purchase a boiler with this function. If there are no pellets in your region, then a combined type pellet boiler will not be the best solution, despite all its advantages
Combination steel boiler Protherm 70 No.
Popular brands of combined boilers
Several manufacturers stand out for having introduced dependable, cost-effective boilers of the combination type. Equipment designed to operate with any kind of energy carrier and specifically tailored to the climates of various regions is available on the market.
Slovakia produces it. Gas and liquid fuel are used for work. The use of mineral wool as isolation helps to reduce the energy supply. With its cast iron construction, 80 kW of power, and dual purpose of heating and hot water supply, the NL Bizon model is best suited for installation in residential settings. The use of other product types from the company attests to the equipment’s dependability in the field; for example, the wider electric boiler is already used to heat multiple country homes.
Comparing Russian boiler to those made by foreign manufacturers, it is very competitive. 50 kW maximum power is issued. produced in four models that are meant to function with any kind of fuel. It is constructed of steel and has a unique mechanism to lessen the production of smoke. Compared to imported boilers, Krasnoyarsk boilers are substantially less expensive.
Made in Korea, the South. utilizes both solid and liquid fuel. enables a 220 V network connection. Solid fuel two-circuit boilers can withstand any weather, making them appropriate for use with heavy loads. There’s enough power to heat 600 square feet.
KitUrami KRM 70R combined boiler using both liquid and solid fuel
Italy is the country of production. The combined ATLAS boiler models are calibrated for use in the Russian climate. made of cast iron, equipped with special self-diagnosis mechanisms, and shielded from freezing and overheating. When operating, the combined heating system produces very little noise. Combustible gases and liquids can be used as energy carriers. -circuit models are connected to a boiler. Area heated to up to 800 kV.m.
De Dietrich
French company group. The equipment operates on the basis of burning diesel and gas. Boilers have a mechanism in place to efficiently drain smoke and lower the carbon monoxide concentration. Models can be controlled mechanically or remotely. The units have a great "dimensions-power" ratio, are aesthetically pleasing, dependable, and simple to operate.
Operation of combined boilers
When selecting a combined boiler for a country home or vacation home, the unit’s functional features are taken into consideration. In this instance, it is necessary to install and operate the equipment correctly. This calls for:
- Prepare the foundation for installing a boiler – units are very mass
- Establish good quality a chimney to remove the products of burning solid, liquid and gaseous fuel
- Put a sheet of steel in front of the boiler to exclude a fire from falling sparks or not completely burned hard fuel
- Carry out timely cleaning
Using a combined boiler contributes to a continuous supply of hot water and heat. The demand for them when installing in private homes stems from their independence from the steady supply of main gas or electricity. A skillful mix of heating fuel types allows for the highest level of economic efficiency. Manufacturers provide devices that can connect boilers and single and double-circuit boilers with an automated operating principle.
Varieties of combined heating boilers
Country homes and cottages are becoming more and more powerful nowadays, bringing with them specialized equipment. Boilers with combined heating are an excellent choice for providing warmth and comfort in your house. The heating system is too costly and significant to purchase without first becoming acquainted with it. Now, what are we going to do?
Design features
You must comprehend the design of such equipment in order for it to operate correctly and effectively. There are various ways for universal heating boilers to switch to burning different kinds of fuel:
- Replacing burners
- Transition to different furnaces
For each type of fuel, the boiler in the first version of the kit has multiple burners. All that needs to be done to transition to a different fuel is swap out the burner. The second option entails burning in multiple furnaces. Liquid, gas, or solid fuel can be used in one combustion chamber and in another.
Varieties
You should be aware of the various types of manufactured heating systems. The kind of equipment you need depends on the fuel you plan to use. Boilers that combine are separated into:
1. Boilers using gas and liquid fuels
These boilers don’t require a lot of work to operate. It doesn’t take long or require much work to switch to a different fuel, and the power remains constant. These residential heating boilers run on liquid or gas fuel. Gas is frequently selected as the primary fuel type because it is affordable, safe, and environmentally friendly. This equipment has a sufficient power output to heat a sizable area.
Distinct from the preceding kind in that a firebox for solid fuel is present. Besides gas and liquid fuel, they also operate with coal, peat, and firewood. Owing to its affordability and adaptability, this equipment is well-liked; however, when compared to earlier generations of boilers, the gas-DROVA exhibits lower efficiency and less automation. They frequently heat small areas because it is less profitable to heat a larger area. A high-quality chimney is necessary for the universal heating boilers "GAZ-DROVA" to operate steadily in the appendage to everything.
3. Boilers for electric heating
The only difference between the aforementioned boilers is the type of fuel they use; boilers with heaters can also heat a space using electricity. They offer high automation and freezing protection, but they are ineffective for large buildings. The system activates the heater automatically when the temperature drops below +5. You can avoid numerous disruptions and maintain constant control over your work with automation. Boilers that combine wood and electricity for heating have a high degree of useful action efficiency and multifunctionality.
In today"s diverse heating landscape, the demand for flexible and efficient heating solutions is paramount. Universal heating boilers, capable of running on gas, firewood, and electricity, emerge as a versatile answer to varied energy needs. These boilers offer homeowners the freedom to choose the most economical and environmentally friendly fuel source while ensuring consistent warmth throughout the year. Whether it"s the reliability of gas, the renewable appeal of firewood, or the convenience of electricity, these boilers adapt to individual preferences and circumstances. With their ability to switch between fuel types, they provide resilience against fluctuations in energy availability and pricing. Moreover, they contribute to sustainable living by promoting the use of cleaner energy sources. Embracing universal heating boilers not only enhances comfort but also aligns with the goals of energy efficiency and environmental responsibility in modern home heating practices.
Advantages and disadvantages of universal boilers
Considering everything mentioned above, it is clear that they have both strong and weak points. Among the advantages are:
- fuel availability and low cost;
- A rich choice of fuel helps to maintain the unit in working condition, even in the absence of one of the types of fuel;
- the possibility of regulating the operating mode, saving fuel;
- environmental cleanliness;
- automatic work, and the possibility of compatibility with the Smart House system;
- reliability and ease of use.
Long-burning solid fuel boilers are not without flaws, either:
- restriction in the field of application – only residential facilities;
- requires a separate room in the house, for storage of fuel and installation of equipment;
- the need for regular inspection and maintenance.
Long-burning combined boilers have good economic and operational indicators, which helps to justify their demand despite all of their drawbacks.
Tips for successful acquisition
The Prometheus boiler’s operation
The following factors should be considered when purchasing a heating boiler:
- power;
- the presence of the second circuit;
- Materials of graters for cutting off ash;
- heating material;
- the size of the chamber firebox;
- valve for the quiet operation of the boiler;
- The material of the heat exchanger.
The proper and high-quality installation of the equipment will determine how reliable the heating system is, so it is essential to apply full responsibility for installation and to keep an eye on the proper installation and compounding of all components.
Certain requirements must be met when installing equipment, such as pellet combined boilers, for example.
A floor boiler is the best option for installation because it doesn’t require any extra structures. Check the floor’s strength before installing anything, and in place of installing stakes, use fireproof materials like asbestos or steel sheets. Make sure the boiler is positioned as steadily and smoothly as possible. If needed, place non-combustible material beneath the unit’s legs to help balance it. Remember that you might need to disassemble it, so plan for easy disassembly when installing.
You have to follow the instructions to the letter when connecting equipment, making sure that the boiler is connected to the chimney correctly. It is best to choose the boiler room ahead of time. To guarantee ventilation, it needs to be well-ventilated.
Installation can be done on your own, but connecting is preferable.
Operation of universal boilers
It is important to consider that installing a long-burning combined boiler requires a strong enough foundation due to its heavy weight. Purchasing and installing a chimney big enough to guarantee the boiler thrust is another crucial step. Additionally, the ash needs to be cleaned with attention. The type of fuel and boiler saturation will determine the level of pollution.
When buying universal boilers, the boiler room is a crucial consideration that you shouldn’t overlook. If the chimney comes into contact with the heated surface of the pipes, it should be purchased with non-combustible thermal insulation to prevent fires. A steel sheet needs to be positioned in front of the boiler’s firebox to shield the floor from any sparks or burning debris. Don’t forget about fuel deliveries and loads either; some boilers need to be filled every four hours. Firewood shouldn’t have more moisture in it than 20%.
A few words about popular brands
South Korean manufacturers of kiturami boilers, built for heavy loads and all weather conditions. The majority of the apparatus is designed to handle various kinds of fuel. Give them two contours so they can be installed in both commercial and residential spaces. Kiturami KRM series heat exchangers are robust two-chamber units. The remote control gives the equipment control. The room can be heated with a combined boiler for KRM 30 in 290kV or less and for KRM 70 in up to 570kV.m.
Ferroli is the company after that. Her specialty is providing specialized protection from both high and low temperatures. The Italian company is able to increase efficiency and decrease the toxicity of smoke during development because of new technology. The company adapts its equipment specifically for Russian conditions. For instance, under poor-quality water and gas. The Ferroli GN1 model is a widely used cast-iron shell model with power ranging from 22 to 92 kW. uses both gas and liquid fuel.
The Russian heating equipment brand Zota. Long-burning steel solid-fuel combined boilers with a 4 cm steel thickness and a 22–48 kW capacity. Home appliances adhere to all safety and dependability regulations. This brand’s models all have higher working pressure, which allows for the achievement of the maximum useful action coefficient. reduction in smoke density, improvement in heat transfer and quality, and at a lower cost than comparable products in the West.
Selecting the ideal heating system for your house is essential for both efficiency and comfort. Homeowners can choose from a variety of universal heating boilers that are powered by gas, firewood, or electricity to fit their needs and tastes.
Gas boilers are dependable and convenient, giving your house a constant temperature. They are a common option for many homes because of their effectiveness and low maintenance requirements. When choosing this kind of heating system, it’s crucial to take safety precautions and gas availability into account.
In regions where firewood is readily available and reasonably priced, firewood boilers represent a conventional yet efficient means of heating residential buildings. If they are sourced ethically, they can be a sustainable option and offer a nice, warm feel. They do, however, need manual labor and routine maintenance, so they might not be appropriate for everyone.
Another good choice that offers simplicity and flexibility are electric boilers. For homeowners looking for hassle-free heating solutions, they are convenient because they are simple to install and require little upkeep. But the price of electricity varies, and depending on the grid might be problematic when there are blackouts.
In the end, a number of variables, such as your location, financial situation, and personal tastes, will determine which heating system is ideal for your house. It’s critical to thoroughly consider the advantages and disadvantages of each choice before choosing one. Whether efficiency, sustainability, or convenience are your top priorities, a universal heating boiler can satisfy your demands and provide year-round warmth and comfort for your house.