Biomass Instal. Scottland

BUILDING STANDARDS DIVISION
Low carbon equipment and building regulations

A guide to safe and sustainable construction
Biomass Installations
This guidance document is intended to be read in conjunction with

the general introduction to low carbon equipment
Document Version Control

Title: Low Carbon Equipment & Building Regulations: Biomass Installations
Purpose: To provide a guide to safe and sustainable biomass installations
Version
Date
Notes
1.0
February 2012
Guidance for the installation of woody biomass equipment taking

account of the mandatory building standards set by the Scottish
Building Regulations.
We acknowledge with thanks the drawings and photographs kindly provided by others.
Low carbon equipment and building regulations:

A guide to safe and sustainable installation
This chapter is one of a series that provides a basic introduction to different low carbon technologies and
describes their relationship to the building regulations in Scotland. It should be read alongside the
general introduction to this guide.
Biomass Installations
Section 1
INTRODUCTION
Section 2
WOOD BIOMASS
Section 3
LOG BURNING APPLIANCES
15
Section 4
WOODCHIP APPLIANCES
17
Section 5
PELLET BURNING APPLIANCES
20
Section 6
CHIMNEYS AND FLUES
22
Section 7
HEATING SYSTEM CONTROLS
24
Section 8
BUILDING REGULATIONS
27
Appendix A
EXPLANATION OF TERMS
37
Appendix B
GOOD PRACTICE ADVICE
39
Appendix C
WORK NOT REQUIRING A

WARRANT
42
Appendix D
RELEVANT STANDARDS
44
Biomass
1. Introduction
BIOMASS
This guidance is one of a series of chapters that provides a basic introduction to
different low carbon technologies and describes their relationship to the building
regulations in Scotland.
In the energy industry, the term biomass includes a wide variety of materials not
just wood. The UK Biomass Task Force defines biomass as:
literally, any biological mass derived from plant or animal matter. This includes
material from forests, crop-derived biomass including timber crops, short rotation
forestry, straw, chicken litter and waste material The use of woody biomass, in the
form of wood chips, wood pellets, and logs may offer a viable alternative to fossil
fuels, particularly in areas not served by gas mains.
Biomass heating systems can be a simple stove used to heat a single room or with a
boiler to provide hot water and central heating. Wood logs and wood based products
can be included as part of a low carbon emissions strategy for buildings.
The majority of biomass boilers on sale in the UK, at the scale appropriate to this
document, are designed to run on dry and seasoned logs, woodchips and wood
pellets. Appliances should be designed in accordance with the British Standards
Institution (BS EN or BS) or the Design Guide produced by the Chartered Institution
of Building Service Engineers (CIBSE).
The types of wood biomass appliances covered are:
Log boilers
Pellet boilers
Wood chip boilers
SCOPE OF GUIDANCE
This guidance has been prepared with domestic sized installations in mind, with
output ratings not more than 50kW. The guidance therefore, may not be relevant to a
biomass appliance with an output rating of more than 50kW. It is also important to
note that the wood fuel systems discussed within this guide are only space heating
and hot water systems.
CARBON MONOXIDE
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an extremely poisonous gas that can be present in the
fumes from the combustion of fuel burnt under incorrect conditions. The gas cannot
be seen, smelt or tasted, making it difficult to detect.
Carbon monoxide can kill or cause permanent damage to a persons health. Initial
symptoms include tiredness, drowsiness, headache, nausea and chest pains (similar
to flu). To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning the following should be
checked to ensure that:
there is adequate ventilation
there is correct installation of flue liner and chimney
the draught in the flue meets manufacturers recommendations
the correct fuel for the appliance is being used
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Biomass
there is regular maintenance, including sweeping chimney and

there is a carbon monoxide detector to alert occupants.
HETAS recommends that a Carbon monoxide detector is installed with every solid
fuel appliance including existing ones. However the detector must never be
considered as a replacement for correct maintenance or chimney sweeping.
CLEAN AIR ACT
The Clean Air Act allows local authorities to create smoke control areas in which
smoke emission is prohibited unless arising from the burning of authorised fuel or
from the use of an exempt appliance. Wood fuel can be burnt in a smoke control
area, if you use an exempt appliance. An exempt appliance is one which is
permitted to burn unauthorised fuels in smoke control areas. These appliances have
passed tests to confirm that they are capable of burning an unauthorised or
inherently smoky solid fuel without emitting smoke.
EXEMPT APPLIANCES
The following website lists the appliances and fuels that are approved for use in
smoke control areas and contacts for local authorities - smokecontrol.defra.gov.uk
FUELS
To burn wood, wood chips and wood pellets in a smoke control area you must use
an exempt appliance, as listed in the above link. It is an offence to acquire any
unauthorised solid fuel for use in a building in a smoke control area other than in a
building or appliance that is exempt.
A definition of terms used in this guide can be found in Appendix A.
Biomass
2. Wood Biomass
WOOD BIOMASS
The most common biomass used for domestic sized appliances is wood. When
used as an energy source wood can be classed as a low carbon fuel because
although it emits CO2 during combustion, it absorbs CO2 during growth.
Wood is a very versatile fuel
which can be burned in many
different forms and in a number
of appliances. It can be used to
heat one or more rooms, a
whole house, or to produce hot
water and to cook.
This guidance document looks
at biomass in the form of a
wood derived fuel. There are
three
main
forms:
logs,
woodchips and reconstituted
fuels such as pellets.
atmosphere
CO2
wood
burning
releases
CO2 back
growing
trees
convert CO2
into plant
material
IS WOOD BIOMASS RIGHT FOR ME?
Wood biomass may be suitable for you depending on:

building location
space available
position of the fuel store in relation to the boiler
the availability of fuel.
For many people in rural Scotland where a backup source of heating in the event of
a power-cut is useful, stoves which can burn logs may provide the ideal solution.
THE BENEFITS OF WOOD FUEL
The benefits of wood fuel as a renewable energy are:

Good for the local economy - wood fuel sourced locally can create business
opportunities and contribute to the local economy.
Security of supply using wood to heat our buildings diversifies the fuel sources,
decreases dependence upon fossil fuel exporting countries and depending on the
amount of wood grown can increase the security of our energy supply.
Carbon neutral fuel wood fuel is considered almost carbon neutral due to the
short time span of the carbon cycle if the wood is harvested and replanted. The
same quantity of atmospheric CO2 is absorbed when the tree is growing as released
when the wood is burned.
Low carbon process - the emission of carbon dioxide through harvesting,
processing and transportation of wood fuel can be minimised by using local
production and distribution networks.
Contributing to social amenity - parkland, woodland, forestry and agriculture are
generally perceived to be environmentally and socially attractive amenities by the UK
population, providing opportunities for recreation and leisure activities. The wood fuel
industry invests in these sectors.
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Biomass
Avoids landfill - recycling and reuse is generally the best environmental option and
should ideally be the first choice for use of wood by-products and waste. Where this
is not done, the debris left from processing trees and the waste not used as fuel,
generating energy, or some other application are often consigned to landfill. This
imposes costs for disposal, additional burden on limited landfill resources and also
contributes to climate change by the creating landfill gases. These gases include a
high proportion of methane (CH4), which has a much higher global warming impact
than carbon dioxide.
FUEL TYPES
Wood logs - are easily available and are the
most common form of wood fuel. Logs have
been used for centuries in open fires and
more recently in stoves and boilers. The
amount of storage required for logs will
depend on whether the owner is splitting their
own or buying ready prepared logs from a
supplier. Log stores should allow plenty of air
flow and be designed to protect the logs from
rain. The moisture content of logs can have a
considerable effect on the useful heat yield. Between 35% and 60% of the weight of
freshly felled (green) wood can be water therefore, it is important that logs are
allowed to dry or season to reduce the moisture content.
For successful burning, the moisture content should be below 25% so it is advisable
to have covered storage facilities for at least one year's worth of fuel to allow for
seasoning. As the moisture content in the wood increases the amount of useful
energy available from the wood decreases; as energy is used up to drive off the
excess moisture. At 60% moisture, wood can have an energy content of typically
1.7kWh/kg, but at 25% moisture this can increase to 4kWh/kg.
Burning wet wood will result in a fire that smoulders and creates a lot of tar, steam
and smoke. This can result in corrosion and condensation problems in boilers and
flues and reduce the amount of heat produced. This applies to both log burning
boilers and stoves. Unburned fuel can result in tar like deposits on the lining of the
chimney thus contributing to the risk of chimney fires. It can also be detrimental to
the visual look of a stove as burning wet wood can blacken the glass at the front of
the stove.
Wood Chips - are made from whole trees,
branch wood or coppice products which
have been mechanically shredded by a
chipping machine. Wood chips are bulky
and sufficient storage and delivery access
needs to be considered when designing a
heating system with this type of fuel. They
are normally stored in a bunker or silo
designed so that the chips can be tipped in.
The chips are then fed by an auger to the
boiler. Transport costs can be high, but if wood chip is sourced within a 20 miles
radius it can be a very cost-effective fuel.
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Biomass
For most users and suppliers of wood chips the two parameters that are critical to
efficient, trouble free operation of the appliance are moisture content and chip sizes.
Wet wood chips have a lower energy content (lower calorific value) than dry wood
chips. Chips with a moisture content greater than 30% should be stored in a
ventilated area to allow for seasoning. The wood species used also has a bearing on
the calorific value of the chips, with hardwood chips having a higher calorific value
than softwood. Heaps of wood chips can be very difficult to dry and should therefore
be ideally dried as logs and chipped once the wood is at the target moisture content.
Wood Pellets - are a type of wood fuel
generally made from highly compressed
waste
sawdust.
Because
they
are
compressed they need less storage space
and are easier to handle. They are usually
produced as a by-product of sawmilling and
other wood transformation activities. The
materials used, include ground woodchips,
sawdust and bark however, pellets can be
made from practically any biomass material
including straws, grasses, energy crops etc. No chemical additives are needed, the
properties within the wood itself serves as a binder, although sometimes small
quantities of maize starch are added to improve binding.
As with logs and chips, storage has to be considered; a whole house size wood
pellet boiler uses up to 10m3 or 6.5 tonnes per year. Depending on the heat loss
from a house, a stove which heats only one room is unlikely to use more than a
tonne a year.
Pellets can be delivered in pre-packed bags or by bulk tanker delivery. With bulk
storage, dust may accumulate creating health and safety and operational hazards.
The pellets are extremely dense and can be produced with a low humidity content
(about 6% to 10%) this allows them to be burned with a very high combustion
efficiency. There are only minor energy losses due to the need to burn off the
moisture content.
Biomass
CHOOSING THE RIGHT TYPE OF FUEL

Description
Storage
Advantages
Disadvantages
Logs - usually
During seasoning
store under cover
with good air
circulation. Keep
dry
Familiar fuel, which can

be used on domestic
fires, stoves and wood
burners
Not as suitable for automatic

feeds. Log burners require
regular de-ashing. Large
storage space may be
required
Keep dry, store as

loose piles
More suited to automatic

handling
Covered open air

storage is
preferable
More efficient combustion
Moisture content > 30%

results in a lower net calorific
value.
When storing over long
periods high moisture wood
degrades quickly which can
result in risk of self heating
and potential spontaneous
combustion. Turning over of
stockpiles is necessary to
avoid build up of heat
Keep dry, stored

under cover,
preferably in
enclosed areas
Generally good storage

characteristics
seasoned for up to 2
years to decrease
moisture content.
Suitable for small to
medium appliances
Wood Chips Depending on the

moisture the chips
can be:
wet: moisture
content > 30%
dry: moisture content
< 30%
Cheaper than pellets
More suitable for

larger installations
e.g. over 25kW
output
Wood Pellets usually

referred to by the
diameter of the
pellets, typically
between 4-10mm.
They should be
clean, pleasant
smelling and
smooth to touch
Suitable for small to
medium appliances
Low moisture content

Can be shipped in bulk.
Good combustion
characteristics
Pellets must be kept dry as

exposure to water will
breakdown pellets and cause
them to swell considerably
Can degrade to saw dust as
a result of excessive, or
poorly designed, mechanical
handling processes
If breakage of pellets does
occur levels of dust can rise
dramatically. In the most
severe cases this has the
potential to create a dust
explosion hazard
FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED
When considering what is the most suitable appliance for a particular building there
are many factors that will influence the choice, including the location and the need
for additional building work. For most houses, equipment and storage space needs
to be compact and easy to maintain. Logs or pellets may be best suited as they can
be more easily accommodated.
Other factors to take into account are:
the source of fuel and the delivery method
installations inside Smoke Control Areas must only be of exempt appliances
owners of wood fuel boilers where the burn rate exceeds 45.4kg/hr must apply to
the local authority for chimney height approval
storage facilities
suitably sized log stores will be required to dry wood during the summer
water heating stoves have higher installation costs than room heating stoves.
9

Biomass
COMBINED SYSTEMS (central heating)
The most economic and effective system to realise a fully low carbon heating system
for single family houses is at present, the combination of a wood biomass boiler, a
water tank and solar thermal collectors (2-3m) (see also the low carbon equipment
chapter - Solar thermal systems or solar hot water (SHW)). In summer the solar
system provides hot water and stores it in the tank.
BOILER SIZING
Similar to other solid fuel systems, wood biomass systems do not respond well to
varying loads or long periods of low load. Therefore to get the best out of the system
it should be operated relatively continuously between 30% and 100% of its rated
output. This is because if used as part of a combined heating and hot water system,
more energy (heated water) will be produced during the combustion process than
may be required at that time. A heat store (highly insulated heat storage tank) is
useful for accommodating this excess energy (heated water) for use at different
times during the day.
The correct sizing of a wood biomass system is essential in helping reduce waste,
cost and providing a comfortable environment. The sizing of an appropriate boiler
should be carried out by a qualified heating engineer. However, there are a couple of
methods and online calculators for roughly establishing the boiler output required.
The following is an example of one of these methods.
To produce a room temperature of around 21 Celsius, when the outside
temperature is minus 1 Celsius, you will need about 1kW of heat for every 14 cubic
metres of an average insulated space. 1kW is the equivalent of approximately 1 bar
of an electric fire.
EXAMPLE
To establish the output of the wood burning stove required to heat a room,
ascertain the cubic capacity of the room in m3, the kilowatt requirement is then
calculated by dividing this figure by 14.
VARIABILITY DEPENDING ON INSULATION
These calculations are based on heating a room which has been averagely
insulated (1990s or earlier). To calculate the kW requirement for a poorly
insulated room (1950s or earlier) divide m3/10. To calculate the kW requirement
for a room constructed to comply with current energy efficiency standards divide
m3/24.
Worked example - a room 5 metres wide, 3 metres long and 2.4 metres high will
have a cubic capacity of 36m3. The required output in kW for the boiler would be
36/14 = 2.57.
A stove with 3 kW output would adequately heat this room.
A higher output stove may be required if the room has, stairs leading off it, is badly
insulated, or has lots of windows/external doors.
The actual size of the appliance will not only vary depending on the insulation but
also, the exposure of the room, the temperature requirements, the geographical
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Biomass
location and the amount of time it will be used. Specialist advice should be sought
before a final decision is taken.
The rated output of each appliance is based on the performance of the appliance
when tested using a standard test fuel and with all doors closed. Appliances are
tested to BS EN 13240 if they are conventional room heaters/stoves burning wood
logs and/or smokeless fuels and to BS EN 14785 if designed to burn mechanically
fed wood pellets.
STORAGE
The storage facilities for the fuel can be a significant proportion of the overall capital
cost of a system. It is important that careful consideration is given to the design of
such facilities so that there is sufficient storage space for the fuel, appropriate access
to the boiler for loading and a local fuel supplier.
There is considerable variation between the amount of storage needed depending
on the different boiler systems and fuels such as wood pellets. Sufficient storage is
needed to avoid frequent transport deliveries which would reduce the carbon savings
generated from using biomass.
The main factors that influence the choice of storage are:
type of fuel and appliance
quantity of fuel required depending on heat demand
frequency of deliveries
space available and
vehicle and handling equipment available.
VOLUME OF STORAGE REQUIRED
Courtesy of Forestry Commission
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Biomass
To calculate the storage area necessary for the particular fuel type, the following
information is required:
Energy demand
Calorific Value of the fuel
Density of the fuel
Fuel consumption (kg) = Energy demand (kWh)/Calorific value (kWh/kg)
Fuel volume (m3) = Fuel consumption (kg)/Fuel density (kg/m3)
EXAMPLE
Calculate the storage volume required for wood pellets if:
The annual heat requirement is 24000kWh and the coldest monthly heat
requirement is 4000kWh
Wood pellets density is 600kg/m3
Wood pellets calorific value is 5kWh/kg
Pellets are delivered on a monthly basis
Worked Example:
Calculate the fuel consumption (FC) for the coldest month
FC = 4000kWh/5 kWh/kg = 800kg/ month
Calculate the fuel volume (FV) required
FV = 800kg/600 kg/m3 = 1.33m3
The store volume required would be 1.33m3
OTHER FACTORS
Due to the cost of delivery it is usually prudent to order a minimum of 3 tonnes of
wood chips. Calculating the storage volume for logs is more problematic as the sizes
are not always consistent.
If a hopper is used for storing wood fuel, it is best if it can be attached to the outside
of the building in an accessible location, or in an underground lined pit.
The following table provides details on the size of storage for different fuel types
based on a 3 month delivery cycle to minimise the number of deliveries. Advice on
the sizing of storage for woody biomass fuel for larger buildings is given in the nondomestic Technical Handbook.
Bulk woody biomass fuel storage: 100% primary heating and DHW
Dwelling size
Wood pellets
Wood chips
Logs - stacked
< 80 m
1.5 m
3.5 m
3 m
80 -160 m
2 m
5 m
4 m
> 160 m
3 m
6 m
5 m
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Biomass
In some dwellings the stove may only be used to provide secondary heating. The
following table provides details on size of storage based on a 6 month delivery cycle.
Bulk woody biomass fuel storage: secondary heating
Dwelling size
Wood pellets
Wood chips
Logs - stacked
< 80 m
0.3 m (9 bags)
1 m
0.5 m
80 -160 m
0.5 m (13 bags)
1.5 m
1 m
> 160 m
0.7 m (16 bags)
2 m
1 m
SELECTING THE RIGHT FIREWOOD SUPPLIER

Environmentally, it is preferable to select a local supplier as this limits the
energy/emissions required to transport fuel. Using a local source where possible,
can result in local investment and employment, it also has the potential to create and
sustain jobs in rural areas.
There are various factors which could influence the choice of supplier:
does the wood supply come from a sustainable source?
what type of wood is being supplied hardwood, softwood or a mixture of both?
will the wood fuel suit the appliance?
is it possible to buy the wood by volume rather than weight? (as this removes the
influence of moisture content).
UNAUTHORISED FUELS
Burning certain wood fuel types can affect the amount of tar and deposits which build
up on your chimney and release noxious chemicals into smoke. The materials
should be avoided for combustion as they can emit unpleasant odours, generate
emissions that damage the environment and are harmful to health:
varnished or plastic-coated wood
wood treated with preservatives
household waste
garden waste
AMOUNT OF ENERGY (calorific value)
Energy density - the term 'energy density' refers to the energy contained in a fuel per
unit weight. The energy density of fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas are
considerably higher (up to three times) than that of wood biomass fuels such as
pellets or chips.
Indicative Calorific Values of Wood Biomass
Particle size
Logs
Chips from fresh
wood
Wood Pellets
100 mm
2 25 mm
(can be graded)
8-10 mm
Moisture content
(%)
60
25
50
10
10
Gross Calorific
value (MJ/kg)
6
15
8
17
17.5
13

CARBON EMISSIONS
Research indicates that using wood biomass for
heating can give reductions in carbon emissions
compared to using other fossil fuel heating fuels.
This is dependent on good practice in fuel
production, processing and transport, the
efficiency of the heating system and the eventual
disposal.
Biomass
Comparison of CO2 emissions
Fuel
kg CO2/kWh
Heating oil
0.274
Electricity
0.517
(standard tariff)
Mains gas
0.198
Woodchip
0.009
Wood pellets
0.028
Wood logs
0.008
PERFORMANCE
The performance of a wood biomass boiler
depends upon the type of fuel used. The relationship between the boiler and the fuel
is crucial boilers are usually designed to burn fuel of a specific type and quality.
Deviation from the specification without adjustments to the boiler design can lead to
poor efficiency and increased emissions of air pollutants.
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Biomass
3. Log burning appliances

TYPE OF APPLIANCE
Appliances for burning logs are:

open fires
stoves (includes ranges)
log boilers
OPEN FIRES
These appliances are the traditional way of burning
logs to provide space heating. Although not renowned
for their efficiency, they have a strong amenity value as
a feature in a room and a modern fireplace with a well
designed grate and flue can make a useful contribution
to space heating. For example, many modern designs
of fireplaces include chimney dampers to control air
flow to the chimney increasing the useful heat output.
Some also include a convection chamber which
pushes hot air into the room which greatly increases
their efficiency. A coal grate may not be suitable for an
open fire to burn wood, as a solid base to retain an ash
bed is required.
STOVES
A wood-burning stove is often the simplest and the
cheapest way of benefiting from efficient wood heating.
Stoves are available in a variety of forms, including
cast iron, steel and ceramic. This includes kitchen
ranges although relatively few are specifically designed
for wood-burning and tend to be designed as multi-fuel
systems.
Although many wood-burning stoves only heat the
room they are in, the higher output versions may have
an integral back boiler to provide domestic hot water
and if required, central heating.
Courtesy of Biomass Energy Centre

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Biomass
An efficient wood burning stove or boiler produces flue gases that are cooler than an
open fire. For this reason it is beneficial to install an insulated liner within an existing
chimney when a wood burning stove is installed to ensure that there is a sufficient
draw of air. If there is no existing chimney, a wood burning stove or boiler installation
is normally fitted with a new system chimney, such as the insulated twin wall type.
LOG BOILERS
While wood logs are often used in stoves to heat the room they are situated in, they
can also heat water for central heating systems, either in a stove with a back boiler
or a log burning boiler designed for burning logs. Stoves burning logs often have an
efficiency of around 65% however, modern wood log boilers when burned at
maximum output can have efficiencies of up to 90%. Log boilers are the least
'automated' of all the wood heating options described here and require refuelling
every few hours as well as regular de-ashing.
Modern boilers have closely controlled combustion and a high level of efficiency.
They are often referred to as log wood gasification boilers where the term gasifying
means that the wood is superheated, resulting in high efficiency ratings.
Boilers can be designed with large combustion chambers to minimise how often they
need to be stoked. Log systems however, begin to become impractical for heating
requirements over 50kW because of the need to regularly re-fuel.
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4. Woodchip Appliances
WOODCHIP APPLIANCES
Woodchip burning technology has been widely developed and adopted in the Nordic
countries, North America, Austria, Germany and many other countries. Many
decades of development have resulted in robust and reliable systems ranging in size
from appliances suitable for a 4 bedroom domestic property up to a power-station.
Modern woodchip systems are typically used for larger buildings such as schools or
community centres but they are available from 20kW which is suitable for about
fifteen radiators. This means that the heating of larger homes is perfectly feasible
with wood chip. However, as these boilers require automation to feed the fuel to the
burner and need up to three times the storage space required for wood pellets, they
might not be cost-effective for a smaller home. The space requirements of wood chip
systems also means that their incorporation into existing buildings can be difficult,
especially where there is limited access for vehicles.
TYPES OF WOOD CHIP BOILERS
There are different types of woodchip boilers on the market, which are characterised
by the type of combustion and feed mechanisms. The main difference between wood
chip and wood pellet systems is the way the chips are fed into the boiler. As the chips
do not flow as easily as pellets an agitator is needed to stir the chips to keep them
moving through the boiler to the burner.
Modern small-scale woodchip heating systems are relatively simple in design and
generally contain a woodchip storage hopper and a supply pipe to the burner unit
attached to the boiler. Domestic sized appliances will normally use the underfeed
burner or the horizontal burner. The three types discussed here are:
underfeed burner
horizontal (stoker) burner
moving grate burner
UNDERFEED BURNERS
In these systems the chips are fed from the bottom up using an auger system. The
primary air is supplied through the ring shaped steel grate with secondary air being
supplied from above. While fuel should ideally have a low moisture content this type
of burner can accept fuels with a moisture content of up to 50%. The removal of ash
from the bottom of the combustion chamber is sometimes by manual intervention,
but it is more common to have the ash augured from the bottom of the combustion
bed to an external ash bin.
Underfeed burner
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Biomass
HORIZONTAL BURNERS
Commonly known as the stoker burner this appliance has a small self-contained fire
bed at the end of the fuel feed pipe which is fixed into the base of a boiler-water
jacket heat exchanger. A small fan blows air under and over the small heap of wood
fuel that is fed by the horizontal auger into the fire bed to produce a large flame
which heats the boiler surface and heat exchanger. It is cheaper than the moving
grate systems because it is less complicated. Ash is usually removed manually
especially on smaller units.
Horizontal Burner
MOVING GRATE BURNER
The moving grate burner, (also known as step-grate or inclined grate) is similar to
furnaces traditionally designed for coal firing. Woodchip fuel is fed via the hopper
and feed pipe onto an inclined fire grate. The grate gently oscillates to move the
woodchips down and along as it burns and forced combustion air is fed in
underneath the grate. Combustion happens at high temperatures within a ceramic
chamber, with a boiler heat exchanger above the firebox. Appliances are made in the
full range from 20kW upwards. While fuel should ideally have a low moisture content
this type of burner allows wet fuel to self-dry before combustion. Therefore it is less
sensitive to fuel moisture content and to a degree fuel quality; this allows it to burn a
wide range of fuels of varying moisture content. Once the wood has combusted, the
remaining ash falls from the lower end of the grate, and is removed mechanically into
the ash pan or bin.
Of the three general designs the moving grate burner type is the most complex in
construction and generally the most costly. Moving grate plants can use pellets or
woodchips, although woodchips are used more commonly because of the capacity of
the plants to burn wet fuel.
There are 3 main types of moving grate burners, these are:
stepped
tipping
rotating
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Biomass
Moving Grate Burner

Water
Ceramic
Secondary
Combustion
Feed
Primary
3-section reciprocating
WOODCHIP FUEL
Woodchip fuel should:
be uniform in shape and size and suited to the heating appliance
be free of oversize slivers or pieces of twig that could block the automatic feed
system
have a low dust/fines content. Small airborne particles are injurious to health,
reduce the airflow through the chips, and tend to create more fly-ash
be of low moisture content. Woodchip systems are not as sensitive to this as log
fuel systems. Woodchip moisture content below 30% are usually fine, but the
ability of each appliance to self-dry the fuel should be assessed.
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Biomass
5. Pellet burning appliances

PELLET STOVES
Pellet stoves are often designed to be a focal point of a room, giving a direct view of
the fire. They are efficient and have a high level of control with automatic operation.
Rooms are heated radiantly through the glass door and by heat from the body of the
appliance and the boiler. They offer the most user-friendly form of wood heating.
These appliances generally have an auto-ignition system using a hot air blower,
allowing the stove to be used in conjunction with a heating system programmer and
boiler interlock. With thermostatic controls it can automatically stop burning when
demand is satisfied or when a time clock turns it off. The controls allow an accurate
supply of fuel and combustion air in response to the energy demand.
Most stoves have an integral hopper which can normally hold enough pellets for
several days burning. They are much easier to control than log burning stoves, and
can be left to burn all day with little attendance. Domestic sized stoves are filled by
hand using bags of pellets of 15kg upwards.
Wood pellet appliances should be tested to BS EN 14785 if designed to burn
mechanically fed wood pellets.
KEY CHARACTERISTICS
The stoves are designed to burn quality pellets to an approved standard. Pellet
stoves are generally available with heat outputs between 5kW and 18kW. Careful
consideration needs to be given to the flues to ensure they satisfy the building
regulations (see section 8).
OPERATION OF WOOD PELLET STOVE
Wood pellet fuel is loaded into the top of

the stove, with a pellet feed auger at the
bottom of the hopper. The auger turns
and pushes the pellets up into the top of
the chamber, where they drop down into
the combustion chamber. Once in the
combustion chamber ignition is usually by
a hot air blower which starts the fire
automatically. A combustion fan then
feeds the fire with the correct amount of
air to achieve maximum combustion
efficiency and minimum ash. Secondary
air is introduced above to create full
combustion of volatile gases resulting in
low levels of carbon monoxide and
unburned gas. The ash generated from
combustion falls through the grate into
the ash pan below although because of
the high efficiency of the appliance the
ash pan may only need to be emptied
every two months.
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Many units have pressure switches in the flue system to prevent or extinguish
combustion if the flue becomes blocked.
TOP FEED BURNER
This system allows for the accurate feeding of fuel to the combustion chamber and is
particularly suited to small appliances with on/off operation. After use the ash needs
to be cleaned from the grate. If low quality pellets are used clinkering or slagging of
the ash can occur.
Wood pellet burning stoves and boilers are designed and constructed to be very
efficient with low emissions and high levels of automation.
COMBINED HEATING
Wood pellet stoves with a back boiler can provide convenient hot water and
appliances are available that provide central heating and hot water for all building
types. These appliances range from simple 8kW boilers upwards to several hundred
kWs.
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6.
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Chimneys Hearths and Flues
CHIMNEYS
The purpose of a chimney is to take the combustion products (smoke and gasses)
from an appliance to the outside air and at the same time, to draw air for combustion
into the appliance. This movement of combustion air and exhaust is called draught.
For wood burning appliances to work successfully they must be connected to a
chimney with a correctly sized flue. For a flue to work properly the hot air must rise.
Factors such as running an appliance at a very slow rate or cold air leaking into a
flue may cool and slow down the combustion gases which will affect the performance
of the chimney.
For a chimney to operate satisfactorily it should be smooth internally, warm and as
straight as possible.
The use of the words 'chimney' and 'flue' can be confusing. BS EN 1443 defines a
chimney as 'a structure consisting of a wall or walls enclosing a flue or flues' and a
flue as 'the passage for conveying the products of combustion to the outside
atmosphere. For the purposes of the building regulations a 'flue pipe' is defined as a
pipe that connects a combustion appliance to the flue in a chimney. See diagram
below:
Open Fire Example
Flue Liner the material which forms the passage
through which combustion gases pass
Chimney the structure that surrounds,
carries and supports the flue
Flue the passage through which the

products of combustion are discharged to
the external air.
Gather, lintel and throat above the fireplace

recess formed by brick / blockwork or a pre-cast
chamber
Superimposed Hearth
Constructional Hearth
Fireplace Recess
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If the property does not have an

existing chimney then one can often
be constructed without too much
disturbance.
CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
Chimney are generally made of
brick or stone but other materials
such as metal (system chimney)
can also be used. By using a double
skin insulated chimney system, a
stove can be installed practically
anywhere, and no existing chimney
is needed to fit the flue system.
Modern stove / boiler connection to chimney
CONNECTION OF THE APPLIANCE
The flue connection should be:
vertical for at least 600mm from a top outlet appliance
no more than 150mm long horizontally from a rear outlet appliance
airtight
no more than 450 from the vertical and
easy to sweep both the connecting flue pipe and chimney.
HEARTHS
A solid fuel appliance (including wood biomass) should be provided with a solid, noncombustible hearth that will prevent the heat of the appliance from igniting
combustible materials. Also any part of a dwelling that abuts or is adjacent to a
hearth should be constructed in such a way as to minimise the risk of ignition by
direct radiation or conduction from a solid fuel appliance located upon the hearth.
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7. Central Heating Systems and Controls

CENTRAL HEATING RELATING TO BIOMASS APPLIANCES
The boilers discussed here are for central heating. BS EN 303-5:1999 applies to
heating boilers for solid fuels, that are hand or automatically fired with a nominal
output of up to 300kW. This covers appliance properties such as performance,
efficiency, emissions, thermal output, pressure testing, safety measures and testing.
ACCUMULATOR TANK
A combined system for both space
heating and hot water is likely to
generate more energy (heated water)
than is required. Therefore, to get the
most out of the system it is best
practice to store the heated water in a
highly insulated heat storage tank,
called an accumulator. The tank
retains the hot water generated by
your heating system for use when
you need it.
This can be used in log, woodchip or
pellet boilers to deliver both central
heating and domestic hot water to the Typical log burning boiler
house for the rest of the day. A
further advantage is that an accumulator tank can be integrated for use with different
heat sources. For example the water could be pre-warmed by solar panels, or come
from other wood burning stoves, a kitchen range, electric immersion heater or an oilfired boiler which could also provide a backup heating system.
Log boiler with thermal store (accumulator) for hot water and central heating
Vent pipe
Cold water feed
Hot water cylinder
Log Boiler
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The heat from these systems cannot be turned off immediately so require inbuilt
safety devices for heat cut-off or heat dump to allow them to be used with sealed
type heating systems.
HEAT CONTROLS
Wood biomass heating systems can be fitted with controls that will enable the
generated heat to be directed around the system in accordance with the wishes of
the building occupant.
All new installations must include heat and safety controls to minimise energy
consumption and carbon dioxide emissions and to ensure that the risk of harm to
users of a building is limited. Systems must be installed in accordance with the
building standards requirements of both Section 6: Energy and Section 3:
Environment of the building standards Technical Handbooks.
Controls for wood burning biomass systems have three functions:
Safety - they provide additional safety in the event of misuse or mechanical failure
Comfort - to control the comfort level in the building
Efficiency - to reduce energy consumption.
Safety functions include:
high limit thermostats to activate the pump if the system gets close to boiling. This
will dissipate the heat
a low limit thermostat to switch the pump off to prevent condensation of the water
vapour in the products of combustion within the appliance and
temperature control of stored hot water or water leaving the store.
The other 2 functions of comfort and efficiency are normally considered together and
must satisfy both Section 6: Energy and Section 3: Environment of the Technical
Handbooks.
In the majority of cases the following should be considered:
the optimum temperature of the water distributed around the system
control of the temperature of the stored hot water and/or the temperature of the
water leaving the hot taps
time control for the operation of the heating system
temperature of the space that is heated and
zoning of the heating system for larger properties.
TIME AND TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR HEATING SYSTEM
A full programmer which can be wired to the pump to control the on/off periods for
central heating and hot water is recommended. However, the level sophistication of
any time controls should be selected to be compatible with the appliance. It can also
be linked to temperature sensors to control the level of comfort.
The two main ways of controlling room temperature are:
Thermostatic radiator valves (TRV) it is important NOT to fit thermostatic valves
to any heat leak radiator as it must be able to operate at all times. It is
recommended that at least one other radiator is NOT fitted with a TRV to allow
heat dissipation in an overheat situation.
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Room thermostats an effective control for a wood biomass system is a room

thermostat. This device monitors the temperature in the room and turns the
radiators on and off in order to help maintain the desired temperature and
efficiency.
Schematic layout of semi-pumped system
1.
2.
Heating boiler
Circulator and isolating
valves
3.
Double feed indirect
cylinder
4.
Hot water draw off
5.
Cold water storage
cistern
6.
Feed and expansion
cistern
7.
Heat leak radiator with
2 full way lock shield
valves
8.
Two port normally
open motorised valves
controlled by cylinder
thermostat (9)
10. High limit pipe thermostat
to bring on circulator in
an overheat situation
11. Low limit pipe thermostat
to prevent the pump
coming on until a
minimum temperature
is reached
12. Programmable room
thermostat
13. Injector tee to pump assist
the thermosyphon
circuit when the pump
is operating
14. Thermostatic radiator
valves to provide
temperature zoning
6
5
7
4
3
3
14
9
8
1
12
11
10
13
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8. Building Regulations
BUILDING REGULATIONS AND BUILDING WARRANTS
All wood biomass heating systems serving a building must comply with the
requirements of the Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004. The Building Regulations
are enforced through the building standards system with the Technical Handbooks
providing guidance on how to meet the mandatory building standards.
When installing a wood biomass system a building warrant is not normally required
in a 1 or 2 storey house but may be required for a 3 or more storey house and a flat
or maisonette.
A building warrant may be required for works to a 1 or 2 storey building that alter the
roof, external walls or elements of the structure of the building (further guidance can
be found in clause 0.5.1 of Building Regulation 5).
Building Standards Division in conjunction with the Scottish Association of Building
Standards Managers (principal officers from the Scottish local authorities), have
produced a guidance matrix on combustion appliances and associated work not
requiring a warrant. This matrix has been reproduced in the table to Appendix C, with
information relating to solid fuel appliances highlighted. If you have any doubts you
should seek guidance from your local authority.
PLANNING PERMISSION
Some biomass systems may require the construction of outhouses or areas to store
the wood materials. They may also require the construction of a new means of
access for service vehicles the provision of which may need planning permission.
Guidance is available in Planning Advice Note 45 Annex: Planning for Microrenewables.
TECHNICAL HANDBOOKS
Guidance on complying with the building regulations is given in the building
standards Domestic and Non-domestic Technical Handbooks 2011. This chapter will
highlight the issues in each section of the Technical Handbooks that should be
considered when installing a wood biomass heating system.
For further advice on specific projects please contact your local authoritys Building
Standards office. Contact details can be found in the telephone directory, the local
authority website, or from the website of the Scottish Association of Building
Standard Managers.
GENERAL - SECTION 0
Section 0 explains Regulations 1 to 17. It includes guidance on appropriate
standards of durability, workmanship and fitness of materials. A particular
consideration for a wood biomass heating system is that there is sufficient space
surrounding the system to enable access for maintenance and repair (see regulation
8).
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STRUCTURE - SECTION 1
Section 1 aims to ensure that the structure of a building does not pose a threat to the
safety of people in or around buildings.
For biomass heating systems, including associated water storage tanks, the
following issues should be considered to avoid damage to the structure of the
building:
all loads imposed by the heating system installation on the structure including the
self weight of the appliance, fuel storage units, and radiator units.
the installation of the chimney or flue may require changes to the buildings
structure, all such changes should be assessed by a chartered engineer or other
appropriately qualified person.
where a constructional hearth is being installed it may be necessary (for example
where there is a suspended floor) for the trimming of joists and the provision of
additional support, which may require the involvement of a structural engineer or
other appropriately qualified person.
water storage vessels may change the loads imposed on the structure of the
floors. Changes in loading should be assessed by a chartered engineer or other
appropriately qualified person:
o a supporting floor or attic floor needs to be strong enough, or made strong
enough, to resist the loads imposed by water storage vessels, including the
weight of water;
o for timber floor structures, loads should normally be shared across at least two
joists and it may sometimes be necessary to add members to provide sufficient
support for water storage vessels.
As with any system that distributes water around a building, consideration must be
given to the installation of pipes and ductwork:
the installation of pipework and ductwork must not weaken the structure of timber
roofs, floors, or walls:
o notches and holes should not be cut in rafters, roof ties, collars or hangers
o notches should not be cut in wall studs, cripple studs or lintels unless a full
structural appraisal has been carried out by a chartered engineer or other
appropriately qualified person
o lightweight trussed rafters should not be cut, trimmed, notched or drilled
o figure 8 below, shows the safe locations and sizes for notches and holes in floor
joists and studs - if in doubt, ask a chartered engineer to check the proposed
installation.
Notches and hole locations in timber floor joists and studs

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FIRE - SECTION 2
Section 2 aims to ensure that the risk of fire is reduced. If a fire does occur measures
must be in place to restrict the growth and spread of fire and smoke to enable
occupants to escape safely and fire-fighters to deal with the fire safely and
effectively.
Where a biomass system is installed the integrity of any fire rated element must be
maintained both during installation and operation of the appliance. Further guidance
can be found in Section 2 of the Technical Handbooks.
It is important to identify if walls and floors are required to have a fire resistance
rating and to ensure that the installation of a wood biomass heating system does not
reduce their required performance (i.e. stability, integrity, and insulation). This should
include:
separating walls and separating floors which are constructed to prevent the
spread of fire between buildings or between parts of a building, for instance
between flats or attached houses
walls and floors of compartments, which are parts of non-domestic buildings that
are constructed to prevent the spread of fire to or from another part of the
building
walls and floors that protect escape routes for example: a protected enclosure or
a protected zone.
For wood biomass heating systems, care should be taken to limit the risk of the
spread of fire through gaps in walls, floors, or ceilings, between cavities, and
between cavities and any other room or space in the building:
walls and floors that are required to have a fire resistance duration and are made
of combustible materials, for instance timber frame separating walls, must not
contain any pipes or wiring. Pipes, wiring and ducts (other than a ventilating duct)
can pass through walls. However pipes from any solar water system on the roof
of a block of flats must not run down through timber frame walls between flats
cavity barriers must not be compromised by the pipes or ductwork associated
with the biomass heating system particular care should be taken not to disturb
cavity barriers separating roof spaces or at the head of a cavity wall, or at the
edges of intermediate floors
pipes of less than 40mm diameter do not require fire stopping where they pass
through any wall or floor required to have a fire resistance duration (such as
separating walls or floors), or through a cavity barrier. Pipes with diameters of
40mm or more should be fire stopped to preserve the integrity of the wall, floor, or
cavity barrier
if a roof is required to be fire-rated to prevent the spread of fire from one building
or part of a building to another, the same limitations on pipe work apply.
In any event, consult the relevant Technical Handbook and in particular for more
detailed guidance on service penetrations, see clause 2.2.9 of the Domestic
Technical Handbook and clause 2.1.14 of the Non-Domestic Technical Handbook.
Wood biomass heating systems must not compromise the fire performance of the
roof. For instance, the penetration of the roof by a chimney must not increase the
risk of the external spread of fire.
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ENVIRONMENT - SECTION 3
Section 3 aims to ensure that buildings do not pose a threat to the environment and
that people in and around buildings are not placed at risk from various sources,
including combustion appliances and the effects of moisture.
For wood biomass heating systems particular care should be taken to avoid moisture
damage to the building. To do this:
any pipes, collectors, or fixings that penetrate the roof should be properly weather
protected to prevent the ingress of rainwater or dampness by using flashings
any pipes or fixings that penetrate an external wall should be properly weather
protected to prevent the ingress of rainwater or dampness, for instance by
sealing small gaps around pipes
pipes or fixings that penetrate an external wall should be installed in a way that
does not adversely affect any existing damp proof, waterproof or breather
membranes. If a membrane is damaged or disturbed, it should be repositioned or
repaired.
Safe operation of combustion appliances
Where it is intended to install a wood biomass system the building must also be
designed and constructed in such a way that each fixed combustion appliance
installation operates safely.
Where it is intended to install a wood biomass heating system and extract fan, the
system should be able to operate safely whether or not the fans are running.
However, where possible extract ventilation and biomass systems should not be
installed in the same room.
Where a hearth, fireplace (including a flue box), or system chimney is provided,
extended or altered information essential to the correct application and use of these
facilities should be permanently fixed in the dwelling to alert future workmen to the
specification of the installed system.
Standards applicable to wood biomass systems are:
BS EN 14785: 2006 'Residential Space Heating Appliances Fired By Wood
Pellets'
BS EN 12809: 2001 'Residential Independent Boilers Fired by Solid Fuel'
BS EN 13229: 2001 'Inset Appliances Including Open Fires Fired by Solid
Fuels'
BS EN 13240: 2001 'Room Heaters Fired by Sold Fuel' and
BS EN 303 - 5:1999 'Heating Boilers. Heating Boilers with Forced Draught
Burners. Heating Boilers for Solid Fuels, Hand and Automatically Fired, Nominal
Heat output of up to 300kW'.
Chimneys and flues generally
Where a wood biomass heating system is being installed, the building must be
designed and constructed in such a way that any part used for the removal of
combustion gases will withstand heat generated as a result of its operation without
any structural change, that would impair the stability or performance of the system.
The process of burning wood can cause deposits of soot in the flue, chimneys and
flue-pipes therefore should:
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Biomass
be swept at least annually where smokeless solid fuel is burnt and more often if
burning wood, peat and/or other high volatile solid fuel such as bituminous coal.
Mechanical sweeping with a brush is the recommended method of cleaning
have such capacity and be of a height and location with an outlet located so that
the products of combustion are discharged freely and will not present a fire
hazard
be of a material that will safely discharge the products of combustion into the flue
under all conditions that will be encountered
have outlet locations that are located for safe and efficient working, taking
account of height, prevailing wind direction and the following minimum
dimensions:
Minimum dimensions to flue outlets`

A
2300mm horizontally clear of the weather skin.
1000mm provided A is satisfied or

600mm where above the ridge.
1000mm above the top of any flat roof; and

1000mm above any openable rooflight, dormer or ventilator, etc. within
2300mm measured horizontally.
D/E
where D is not more than 2300mm, E must be at least 600mm.
Notes:
1.
Horizontal dimensions are to the surface surrounding the flue.
2.
Vertical dimensions are to the top of the chimney terminal.
3.
Specialist advice will be required for roofs with combustible coverings.
Clearance from combustion appliances

A flue pipe that passes through a roof space, partition, internal wall or floor must
have sufficient clearance from combustible material to avoid raising the temperature
of adjacent materials which may result in the possibility of charring or outbreak of
fire. These clearance dimensions may also be defined in the appliance or chimney
manufacturers instructions. A 'flue liner' is used to form the flue passage within the
chimney.
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Biomass
The guidance to Section 3.19 of the Technical Handbooks (Combustion Appliancesrelationship to combustible materials) provides details of acceptable construction
clearance dimensions.
Relationship of metal chimneys to combustible material
manufacturers
declared
distance xx
There should also be a separation distance where the metal chimney runs through or
is in close proximity to combustible material. The separation distance should be
25mm from the outer surface of a single-walled chimney to the combustible material.
A metal chimney should not pass through a separating wall or separating floor.
However, when the chimney or a non-combustible fire rated casing totally encloses
the chimney and is constructed in such a way that, in the event of a fire, the fire
resistance is maintained then a metal chimney can be used.
A flue-pipe serving a wood biomass heating system should be non-combustible and
of a material and construction capable of withstanding the effects of a chimney fire
without any structural change that would impair the stability and performance of the
flue-pipe.
Combustible material should not be located where the heat dissipating through the
walls of fireplaces or flues could ignite it. Generally combustible materials should:
be located at least 200mm from the surface surrounding a flue in a masonry
chimney
have a separation distance where a metal chimney passes through or in close
proximity to combustible material.
A fireplace recess should be constructed of solid, non-combustible material in
accordance with the recommendations in Clauses 7 and 8 of BS 8303: Part 1:1994
and to the minimum thickness shown in Figure 2 to BS 8303: Part 3:1994.
All combustion appliances have the potential to cause carbon monoxide (CO)
poisoning if they are poorly installed or commissioned, inadequately maintained or
incorrectly used. Any chimney or flue-pipe installed in a building should:
be suitable for use with the type of appliance served
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Biomass
have such capacity, be of a height and location and with an outlet located so that
the products of combustion are discharged freely and will not present a fire
hazard
have each solid fuel appliance connected to a separate flue
have the outlet from a flue located externally at a safe distance from any opening,
obstruction or flammable or vulnerable material
be surrounded by non-combustible material that is capable of withstanding the
effects of a chimney fire without any structural change that would impair the
stability or performance of the chimney.
Access should be provided for inspection and cleaning of the flue and appliance.
Air for Combustion
An open-flued appliance needs to receive a certain amount of air from outside the
appliance dependant upon its type and rating.
A wood biomass appliance installed in a room or space should have a supply of air
for combustion. This can be provided by way of permanent ventilation either directly
from the open air or from adjoining space (including a sub-floor space) that is itself
permanently ventilated direct to the open air.
As part of the Governments commitment to reducing carbon emissions, the building
regulations are encouraging low air permeability for new buildings. These are
designed to have lower levels of uncontrolled air infiltration through gaps and cracks
in the building fabric. Care should be taken when installing a biomass system in
buildings with very low air infiltration rates (air infiltration rate of less than 5m3/m2.h)
to ensure there is sufficient air for combustion.
It is also important that installers recognise the need to accurately assess the need
for ventilation in any building, but particularly in recently completed buildings or
where there is evidence that a building may have been built to higher energy
standards on a voluntary basis.
Such buildings are more likely to have lower infiltration rates and a means of
controlling the exchange of air between the inside and outside of a dwelling by:
mechanical devices such as extract and supply fans
passive stack ventilators using ducts from terminals in the ceiling of rooms to
terminals on the roof that extract air to the outside.
Safe Storage of Fuel
By its very nature woody biomass fuel is highly combustible and precautions need to
be taken to reduce the possibility of the stored fuel igniting.
To help ensure maximum energy from the fuel, storage should be designed to be
damp free to reduce any increase in the moisture content of the fuel.
To inhibit the spread of fire, storage for wood fuels should be in containers
constructed in accordance with the guidance to Section 3.23 of the Technical
Handbooks.
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Minimise Fuel Deliveries

Every building must be designed and constructed in such a way that the volume of
wood biomass fuel storage allows the number of journeys by delivery vehicles to be
minimised.
It is recommended that wood fuel storage provision is of a size that will ensure
deliveries need not be made at intervals of less than 3 months for bulk storage and 6
months for small installations.
SAFETY - SECTION 4
Section 4 aims to ensure that the risk of harm to users of a building is limited to an
acceptable level by identifying hazards in and around buildings.
For wood biomass heating systems that use an electricity supply care should be
taken to avoid risks of electrocution and fire:
systems using an electricity supply should be installed in accordance with BS
7671, also known as the Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEE) Wiring Regulations
17th edition.
For any wood biomass heating system that incorporates hot water storage care
should be taken to avoid risks of scalding and burns from the discharge of steam or
hot water:
provision must be made to prevent scalding by limiting the temperature of hot
water delivered to a bath or bidet to 48C. This can be achieved by fitting a
thermostatic mixing valve (see Domestic Technical Handbook, 4.9.5)
the fluid in a wood biomass heating collector circuit can reach very high
temperatures and where a system includes a means of venting fluid or steam
this should not result in the risk of scalding to people or damage to the building
fabric:
o temperature and pressure relief valves should vent into pipes or
containers that are designed to receive steam
particular care should be taken with unvented hot water storage (see Domestic
Technical Handbook, 4.9.1 - 4):
o unvented hot water storage systems should incorporate appropriate safety
devices and controls to regulate temperature and pressures within the system
o installations should be carried out by people with appropriate training and
practical experience, usually members of a registration scheme operated by a
recognised professional body, including the Scottish and Northern Ireland
Plumbing Employers Federation (SNIPEF) and the Construction Industry
Training Board (CITB).
Provision should also be made to protect from scalding during maintenance of the
system:
a low level drain down facility should be provided to allow the safe draining of
the heat transfer fluid.
For any biomass heating system that incorporates a pre-heat cylinder or other hot
water storage care should be taken to avoid risks of legionella:
to control the risk of legionella and similar pathogens, a secondary heat source,
typically an immersion heater coil, is needed to raise the temperature of the
stored water, once a week for a short time to at least 60 C, in accordance with
guidance to the Water Byelaws.
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Biomass
NOISE - SECTION 5
Section 5 aims to limit the transmission of sound to a level that will not threaten the
health of occupants. Sound transmission emanates from within a building as well as
from attached buildings and differently occupied parts of the same building.
Building service installations in buildings have the potential to cause noise nuisance.
For example, common plant such as lifts, air conditioning units, ventilation systems,
and drainage pipes running the height of a block of flats have all been known to be a
source of complaint. Therefore, it is important that the design of building services,
their position in the building and the building structure should be considered at an
early stage in the design process.
It is worth noting that the only noise from a wood biomass heating system comes
from the circulation pump which is probably no louder than a modern central heating
pump.
Custom-built or system chimneys should not be built into timber-framed separating
walls. Only masonry chimneys (including precast concrete flue-blocks) may be
included as an integral part of a separating wall.
ENERGY - SECTION 6
Section 6 aims to ensure that effective measures for the conservation of fuel and
power are incorporated into buildings, and that emissions of carbon dioxide are
limited.
Minimum efficiency of a biomass heating system
An installed biomass heating system is required to meet minimum appliance
efficiency. The minimum efficiencies for different appliance types are set out in
clause 6.3.2 of the Domestic Technical Handbook. Controls for solid fuel heating
systems are set out in clause 6.3.9 and are also discussed in Section 7 of this
guidance document.
Installation of a wood biomass heating system should not prejudice the energy
performance of the building:
if insulation within the walls, ground floor, roof or on pipe work is disrupted it
should be re-positioned or replaced
if membranes or seals that contribute to the air-tightness of the building are
disrupted they should be repaired and the junctions around pipes or ductwork
made airtight
gaps should be filled where any pipes or ducts penetrate external walls,
incorporating insulation material to limit thermal bridging.
Various measures can help to ensure that the installation of the wood biomass
heating system is energy efficient:
pipes and ducts within the system should be well insulated to minimise heat loss:
o BS 5422: 2009 'Methods for specifying thermal insulating materials for pipes,
tanks, vessels, ductwork and equipment operating within the temperature range
40C to + 700C; for example a 22mm diameter copper pipe should be
insulated with a minimum of 18 mm of insulation with a thermal conductivity of
0.035W/mK
o the correct grade of insulation needs to be used to withstand the very high
temperatures generated
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Biomass
o for external pipes and ductwork, the insulation will need to be resistant to the
effects of weathering.
Correct use and maintenance of a wood biomass heating system is essential if the
benefits of enhanced energy efficiency are to be realised. Therefore:
the whole system, including the auxiliary heating, should be properly
commissioned and tested, taking account of the manufacturers
recommendations to achieve optimum energy efficiency, and with a view to
ensuring safe operation
written information should be made available for the use of the occupier of the
building on the operation and maintenance of the whole system, including the
recommended frequency of scheduled maintenance.
MINIMUM CONTROL REQUIREMENTS
To satisfy Section 6: (Energy) of the Technical Handbooks the heating system, where
appropriate, should incorporate the following:
thermostatic control of the burning rate
boiler interlock (only as advised by manufacturer)
fully pumped circuits where appropriate
dwellings with a floor area more than 150m2 should be divided into at least two
heating zones with independent time and temperature controls
full programmer (7 day for space and hot water), the level of sophistication of time
controls should be selected to be compatible with the appliance. The highest
levels should only be used for appliances with automatic ignition
room thermostats and TRVs (except in rooms where heat bleed is required)
a cylinder thermostat. Separately controlled circuits to cylinder and radiators with
fully pumped circulation where appropriate.
SUSTAINABILITY - SECTION 7
Sections 1 to 6 of the 2010 Technical Handbooks identify the minimum requirements
for satisfying building standards. Section 7 builds on the sustainability aspects
already embedded in building standards and aims to encourage the sustainable
design and construction of all new buildings. As part of this sustainability labelling
has been developed to:
formally recognise the levels of sustainability already achieved in the Building
Regulations, by setting compliance with the 2010 standards as the entry
benchmark level
encourage more demanding sustainability standards through enhanced Silver,
Gold and Platinum upper levels and
identify buildings that incorporate a low or zero carbon generating technology
(LZCGT).
Levels of sustainability
The specified level of sustainability for a dwelling should be selected from the
following:
Bronze or Bronze Active
Silver or Silver Active
Gold
The use of biomass is recognised as one of the low and zero carbon generating
technologies that can help meet part of the specified upper levels in Section 7.
36
Biomass
COMPLIANCE
The responsibility to ensure that biomass installations comply with building standards
generally lies with the owner of the building. It is therefore important that biomass
installations are designed, constructed and installed by persons with relevant
professional skills and experience.
Using an Approved Certifier is an option open to an owner or developer to gain
certification and assurance that building warrant approved work, as constructed,
does comply with building standards. Approved Certifiers are members of a scheme
approved by Scottish Ministers. Checking procedures adopted by Approved
Certifiers will deliver design or installation reliability in accordance with legislation.
The Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers Federation (SNIPEF)
currently operate an approved scheme that includes the certification of fixed solid
fuel combustion appliances including biomass installations.
37
APPENDIX A
Biomass
Explanation of terms
ACCUMULATOR OR BUFFER TANK

An insulated tank of water plumbed to take heat from the boiler when heat output
exceeds immediate demand and to release heat when demand exceeds boiler
output. Accumulator tanks avoid excessive modulation of boilers, allows more heat
to be supplied by the wood fuel system and allows a reduction in boiler size thus
reducing cost.
AUGER
A rotating Archimedean screw that pulls wood chip or wood pellet fuel from the fuel
store to the drop zone of the boiler.
BURNER
Is made up of an auger that feeds the fuel directly into the combustion zone.
BOILER
Conventional boilers similar to those used with gas or oil fire systems. It contains
either a simple water jacket or multi-pass fire tube positioned either vertically or
horizontally. The boilers are highly efficient with typical efficiencies of 80% to over
90% for woodchip and wood pellet systems.
CALORIFIC VALUE
The amount of heat released by unit weight or unit volume of the fuel during
complete combustion.
CHIMNEY
The chimney stack has two functions: it draws the flue gases and disperses them to
the atmosphere at a safe level. The structure can enclose 1 or more flues, but not a
flue-pipe, and includes any openings for the accommodation of a combustion
appliance, but does not include a chimney terminal.
COMBUSTION GRATE
The main point at which combustion starts.
COPPICE PRODUCTS
A thicket or dense growth of small trees or bushes, regularly trimmed back to stumps
so that a continual supply of small poles and firewood is obtained.
ENERGY DENSITY
This term refers to the energy contained in a fuel per unit weight; figures are usually
quoted in Gigajoules per tonne.
FLUE
Passage for conveying the products of combustion to the outside atmosphere.
FLUE LINER
Wall of a chimney consisting of different component parts, the surface of which is in
contact with products of combustion.
38
Biomass
FLUE-PIPE
Is a pipe, either single walled (insulated or non-insulated) or double-walled, that
connects a combustion appliance to a flue in a chimney.
HEAT EXCHANGER
Where an appliance is providing hot water to heat a space, a heat exchanger
transfers the heat in the hot combustion gases to the water e.g. via fire tubes with a
water jacket.
IGNITION SYSTEM
Wood-pellet appliances may be ignited automatically using a hot air blower to raise
material to ignition point (smaller systems) or electrically ignited gas pilot (larger
systems).
MODULATION
A modulating condensing boiler will adjust flame and pump speed to produce a
varying amount of heat depending on the temperature of the room (more heat if
room at a lower temperature than if room was near maximum temperature) to
achieve a more constant temperature and reduce gas consumption.
MOISTURE CONTENT
The percentage of the total mass of a fuel that is comprised of water. Expressed as a
percentage (30% moisture content) or simply as MC30.
SPRING ARM AGITATOR / OUTFEEDER
A mechanism involving two metal arms that rotate at the base of the fuel store to
funnel the fuel to the auger.
In addition to the issues covered by the Technical Handbooks, the following good
practice guidance will make the installation of a biomass heating system safer and
more sustainable.
39
APPENDIX B
Biomass
Good Practice Advice
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Approved appliances are designed and assessed to be safe in use. However, it is
essential to refer to the manufacturer's installation and operating instructions and
also to any permanent warning label. It is recommended that a permanent warning
label along the following lines is attached to approved room heaters. However, it is
not mandatory for recently approved appliances under the new BS ENs. Building
regulations do not extend to how people use their buildings therefore it is important
for owners and occupiers to consider the following:
WARNING
Safe operation of their appliances:
Fumes from blocked chimneys can kill.
Keep chimneys clear, sweep at least annually.
Keep throat plates and flueways clear; clean at least monthly.
Use only recommended approved fuels.
Read instruction card.
Never leave an open fire unattended without a spark guard (to BS 3248) and always
use a fire guard (to BS 8423) when children and elderly and/or infirm people are
present.
INCORRECT BURNING, SMELLS OR FUMES
If, for no obvious reason, the appliance starts to burn slowly and you smell or
suspect fumes, open doors and windows, extinguish the fire and evacuate the
premises. Do not re-light the fire until the cause of the fume emission has been
investigated and removed.
CARBON MONOXIDE
Occupants of a building can be alerted to the presence of carbon monoxide (CO) by
the use of detector / alarms. Whilst these devices should not be considered as a
substitute for correct installation or regular maintenance of appliances and flues, they
can provide warning to the occupants. Many combustion appliance installers
recognise the safety benefits of installing CO detectors and currently install them as
good practice. The current review of building regulations is considering introducing
the requirement for CO detection within buildings.
ADEQUATE VENTILATION
Remember that the people in the room and also the appliance itself, need air and
any draught proofing or double glazing must allow adequate ventilation as required
by the Building Regulations.
CHIMNEY MAINTENANCE
Chimneys and their flues need to be maintained so that the by-products of
combustion are safely discharged to the outside air. Maintenance should include:
sweeping and removal of debris from all areas, at least annually, this may need
to be increased depending on type of fuel burnt and local site conditions;
an annual smoke draw test
testing on a programmed basis by both evacuation tests and pressure smoke
tests to BS 6461. Approximately every 5 years during the life expectancy of the
40
Biomass
flue and more regularly once the expected life of the chimney has been reached
and
regular visual inspections followed by any necessary repairs.
APPROVED CHIMNEY SWEEPS
The National Association of Chimney Engineers (NACE) was set up to ensure the
safety of all fuel users who depend upon a chimney or flue for the operation of a
heating appliance. They provide a register of competent and qualified chimney
engineers for all types of chimney work. Advice is also available from the British Flue
and Chimney Manufacturers Association (BFCMA). These organisations do not
have a mandatory status. See also the following links:http://www.nace.org.uk/
http://www.feta.co.uk/
Approved chimney sweeps, who have been through NACS, GMCS or APICS
induction procedures to confirm their competency and who have attended the
National Association of Chimney Sweeps course or the HETAS Solid Fuel
Awareness course and passed the assessment, are listed in Part 4, Section E of the
HETAS Guide. They will carry a special HETAS approved identity card.
The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps Ltd, 24 Church View, Aveley, Essex, RM15
4LH. Tel: 0800 043 737 Web: www.guildofmasterchimneysweeps.co.uk
The Association of Professional and Independent Chimney Sweeps, Bryallen,
Hengar Road, St Tudy, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 3PL Tel: 0845 604 4327. Web:
www.apics.org.uk
REGISTERED HEATING ENGINEERS
The Heating Equipment Testing and Approval Scheme (HETAS) is an independent
organisation which sets standards of safety, efficiency and performance for testing
and approval of solid fuels, solid mineral fuel and wood burning appliances and
associated equipment and services for the UK solid fuel domestic heating industry. It
operates a registration scheme for competent Engineers and Companies working in
the domestic solid fuel market.
The Official Guide to Approved Solid Fuel Products and Services published by
HETAS Ltd contains a list of Registered Heating Engineers deemed competent in
the various modules listed, e.g. for the installation, inspection and maintenance of
solid fuel appliances.
There are other organisations representing the solid fuel industry but neither they nor
HETAS have a mandatory status.
QUALITY ASSURANCE SCHEMES
To assists producers and suppliers to provide quality wood fuel various quality
assurance schemes now exist including:
WOODSURE - (www.woodsure.co.uk) has developed a UK quality assurance
scheme where wood fuel is assessed by performance testing.
HETAS (www.hetas.co.uk) has a wood fuel quality assurance scheme where
producers are assessed against European standards to check that they are meeting
a quality standard for solid biomass fuels.
41

Biomass
Uk wood pellet producers have also opted to provide quality fuel through the certified
processes of the new European standard ENPlus (www.pelletcouncil.eu) or to
have their fuels tested and accredited by Independent test labs that are accredited
by the UK Accreditation Service.
RELEVANT TRADE ASSOCIATIONS
TRADE ASSOCIATION
HETAS
Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing
Employers Federation (SNIPEF)
Solid Fuel Association
Chartered Institute of Plumbing and
Heating Engineers (CIPHE)
Institute of Domestic Heating and
Environmental Engineers (IDHE)
British Flue and Chimney Manufacturers
Association
National Association of Chimney
Engineers
Association of Professional Chimney
Sweeps (APICS)
Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps
WEBSITE
www.hetas.co.uk
www.snipef.org.uk
www.solidfuel.co.uk
www.cipe.org.uk
www.idhee.org.uk
www.feta.co.uk
www.nace.org.uk
www.apics.org.uk
www.guildofmasterchimneysweeps.co.uk
42
Biomass
APPENDIX C Work not requiring a warrant [1]

DOMESTIC BUILDINGS
WORK TO EXISTING BUILDINGS [2]

Type [3]
Flat
House
(up to 2
storeys)
House
(3 storeys &
above)
New gas combustion appliance, not

more than 70kW net input [4]
1, 6
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
New gas combustion appliance, more

than 70kW net input [4]
1, 6
Required
Not Required
Required
New oil combustion appliance, not

more than 45kW output [4]
1, 6
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
New oil combustion appliance, more

than 45kW output [4]
1, 6
Required
Not Required
Required
New Solid fuel combustion

appliance, not more than 50kW
output [4]
1, 6
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
1, 6
Required
Not Required
Required
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Work Activity
NEW AND REPLACEMENT BOILERS
New Solid fuel combustion

appliance, more than 50kW output
[4]
Replacement gas appliance, not more

than 70kW net input
1, 6
Replacement oil appliance, not more

than 45kW output
1, 6
Replacement solid fuel appliance
1, 24
[5]
[5]
[6]
Electrical work associated with

boiler installation or replacement
[5]
[5]
[6]
[5]
[5]
[6]
See separate electrical matrix
CHIMNEYS/FLUEPIPES
Installation of a new or replacement
balanced flue serving a room sealed
appliance
Installation of a new chimney or
flue-pipe
Installation of a flue liner
Alterations to an existing chimney
or flue-pipe
Repairs to, or replacement of, an
existing chimney, flue-pipe or a flue
outlet or terminal
1, 7
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Required
Not Required
Required
1, 9
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Required
Not Required
Required
1, 24
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Required
Not Required
Required
[6]
[6]
[6]
HEARTHS
New or replacement superimposed
hearth (i.e. non-constructional)
1, 6, 24
New constructional hearth not

affecting the floor or wall structure
1, 6
[6, 7]
[6]
[6, 7]
43
Work Activity
Type [3]
Biomass
Flat
House
(up to 2
storeys)
House
(3 storeys &
above)
FUEL STORAGE (when connected to a combustion appliance for space/water heating or cooking) [8]
Installation of an LPG storage tank,
including pipework connecting the tank
to a combustion appliance with a net
input rating of 70kW or less
1, 6
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Work associated with refillable LPG

cylinders serving space/water heating
combustion appliance(s) or cooking
facilities via fixed pipework
1, 10
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Installation of a fixed oil storage tank

with a capacity of more than 90 litres,
including pipework connecting the tank
to the combustion appliance
1, 6
Required
Not Required
Required
Repairs to, or replacement of, an LPG

or oil storage tank, including
associated pipework
1, 24
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Installation of an oil storage tank with a

capacity of not more than 90 litres
[6]
[6]
[6]
The building regulations do not cover work of this

nature
CENTRAL HEATING AND HOT WATER STORAGE ANCILLARIES

Any work associated with a
combustion appliance installation,
e.g. pipework, radiators, convector
heaters and thermostatic controls
1, 8
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Note 1 Works not requiring a building warrant under the terms of schedule 3 require, in all respects,
to meet the requirements of the relevant regulations, except where falling within types 24 to
26, where works constituting replacements must be to a standard no worse that at present.
Note 2 Where indicated as not requiring warrant approval, this is on the proviso that no structural
works to, or affecting, the roof, external walls or elements of structure, or works adversely
affecting a separating wall/floor, are to be carried out to facilitate the installation. This
guidance is intended to cover the indicated work activities only, a building warrant may be
required for ancillary works. If the work activity is carried out at the same time as works
requiring a warrant, the building warrant application should include all works.
Note 3 Building work type as referenced in schedule 3.
Note 4 Excluding works to a flue-pipe, chimney and/or constructional hearth.
Note 5 On condition that the boiler complies with the current technical standards
Note 6 If a replacement, on condition that the installation is to a standard no worse than at present.
Note 7 Not applicable to solid fuel appliances having an output rating more than 50kW, oil-firing
appliances with an output rating more than 45kW or gas-fired appliances having a net input
rating of more than 70kW.
Note 8 The installation of biomass storage should be discussed with the local authority verifier.
44
APPENDIX D
Biomass
Relevant Standards
EUROPEAN AND BRITISH STANDARDS

CEN Technical Committee 295 produces Standards for residential solid fuel
appliances and the current range of Standards represents the broad classifications
of appliances in the market (Table 2.1). Residential heating devices, as defined by
CEN TC 295, either heat a single room or a single dwelling. European EN standards
for residential solid fuel appliances and for independent boilers with nominal heat
output up to 300kW. The Standards include minimum requirements for efficiency,
construction and safety of appliances. In general residential appliances are less than
50kW output and most direct heating appliances (stoves, fireplaces) have an output
of <10kW.
RESIDENTIAL SOLID FUEL APPLIANCES
BS EN 303 Pt 5:
1999
Heating boilers - Part 5: Heating boilers for solid fuels, hand

and automatically stocked, nominal heat output of up to 300kW
- Terminology, requirements, testing and marking.
BS EN 12809:
2001+ A1:2004
Residential independent boilers fired by solid fuel Nominal

heat output up to 50kW - Requirements and test methods.
BS EN 12815:
2001+ A1:2004
Residential cookers fired by solid fuel - Requirements and test

methods.
BS EN 13229:
2001 + A2: 2004
Inset appliances including open fires fired by solid fuels Requirements and test methods.
BS EN 13240:
2001 + A2: 2004
Room heaters fired by solid fuel - Requirements and test

methods.
BS EN 14785:
2006
Residential space heating appliances fired by wood pellets Requirements and test methods.
BS EN 15250:
2007
Slow heat release appliances fired by solid fuel - Requirements

and test methods.
prEN 15281
(under
development)
prEN 15544
(under
development)
Sauna stoves fired by solid fuel - Requirements and test

methods.
One off tiled/mortared stoves - Dimensioning.
STANDARDS FOR WOOD BIOMASS HEATING SYSTEMS

BS 5615:1985
Specification for insulating jackets for domestic hot water

cylinders.
BS EN 13831:
2007
Closed expansion vessels with built in diaphragm for installation

in water.
BS 5422: 2009
Method for specifying thermal insulating materials for pipes,

tanks, vessels, ductwork and equipment operating within the
temperature range -400C to +7000C.
BS EN 12831,
Specification of forced circulation hot water central heating

45
Biomass
BS EN 12828,
systems for domestic premises design.
BS 5970: 2001
Code of Practice for thermal insulation of pipework and

equipment in the temperature range of 1000C to + 8700C.
GENERAL STANDARDS FOR HOT WATER STORAGE VESSELS, AND

ASSOCIATED FITTINGS
BS EN 1490: 2000
Building valves. Combined temperature and pressure relief

valves, tests and requirements.
BS EN 1491: 2000
Building valves. Expansion valves. Tests and requirements.
BS 1566:
Part 1: 2002
Copper indirect cylinders for domestic purposes
Part 2:1984 (1990)
Specification for single feed indirect cylinders.
BS 3198:1981
Specification for copper hot water storage combination units for

domestic purposes.
BS EN 12897:
2006
Water supply. Specification for indirectly heated unvented

(closed) storage water heaters.
BS 7074-1:1989
Application, selection and installation of expansion vessels and

ancillary equipment for sealed water systems. Code of Practice
for domestic heating and hot water supply.
BS EN 13831:
2007
Closed expansion vessels with built-in diaphragm for installation

in water.
Open vented copper cylinders Requirements and test

methods.
STANDARDS FOR WATER HEATING SYSTEMS

BS 6700: 2006
Design, installation, testing and maintenance of services

supplying water for domestic use within buildings and their
curtilages.
BS EN 15316
Heating systems in buildings. Method for calculation of system

energy requirements and system efficiencies.
General
Domestic hot water systems, characterisation of needs (tapping
requirements).
Domestic hot water systems, distribution.
Domestic hot water systems, generation.
Heat generation systems, thermal solar systems.
Part 1: 2007
Part 3-1: 2007
Part 3-2: 2007
Part 3-3: 2007
Part 4-3: 2007
46

PRODUCT AND MATERIALS STANDARDS
Biomass
BS 7431:1991
Method for assessing biomass heaters. Elastomeric materials

for absorbers, connecting pipes and fittings.
BS 3734-1:1997
Rubber. Tolerances for products. Dimensional tolerances.
BS 6920: 2000
Suitability of non-metallic products for use in contact with water

intended for human consumption with regard to their effect on
the quality of the water.
OTHER RELEVANT FUEL STANDARDS AND GUIDANCE

BS 7671
Requirements for electrical installations.
BS EN 14419,
BS EN 448,
BS EN 489
BS 8000
District heating pipes.
HETAS
Solid Biomass Assurance Scheme.
DD CEN/TS
14774-2:2004
Solid Biofuels. Methods for the determination of moisture

content. Oven dry method. Total moisture. Simplified method.
DD CEN/TS
14588: 2004
Solid Biofuels. Terminology, definitions and descriptions.
DD CEN/TS
14961:2010
Solid Biofuels. Fuel specifications and classes.
CEN/TS 15234-1
General Requirements.
Workmanship on building sites.
OTHER RELEVANT STANDARDS

BS 7671
Requirements for electrical installations.
BS EN 14419,
BS EN 448,
BSEN 489
BS 8000
District heating pipes.

Workmanship on building sites.
47

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BUILDING STANDARDS DIVISION

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

This guidance document is intended to be read in conjunction with

Document Version Control

Guidance for the installation of woody biomass equipment taking

Low carbon equipment and building regulations:

LOG BURNING APPLIANCES

PELLET BURNING APPLIANCES

CHIMNEYS AND FLUES

HEATING SYSTEM CONTROLS

GOOD PRACTICE ADVICE

WORK NOT REQUIRING A

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

there is regular maintenance, including sweeping chimney and

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

IS WOOD BIOMASS RIGHT FOR ME?

Wood biomass may be suitable for you depending on:

The benefits of wood fuel as a renewable energy are:

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

CHOOSING THE RIGHT TYPE OF FUEL

Familiar fuel, which can

Not as suitable for automatic

Keep dry, store as

More suited to automatic

Covered open air

More efficient combustion

Moisture content > 30%

Keep dry, stored

Generally good storage

Wood Chips Depending on the

Cheaper than pellets

More suitable for

Wood Pellets usually

Low moisture content

Pellets must be kept dry as

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

Courtesy of Forestry Commission

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

0.5 m (13 bags)

0.7 m (16 bags)

SELECTING THE RIGHT FIREWOOD SUPPLIER

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

3. Log burning appliances

Appliances for burning logs are:

Courtesy of Biomass Energy Centre

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

MOVING GRATE BURNER

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

Moving Grate Burner

Low carbon equipment and building regulations

5. Pellet burning appliances