The occurrence of the solid fuel heating system is becoming increasingly in many homes around the world. If you are thinking about having one of these systems installed in your own home, however, it is important that you understand how it works and what you need to look out for.

Operation
Basically, a fire is used to heat up the water contained in a boiler before it is circulated to the hot water storage tank and then sent on to the radiators. There is a variety of solid fuels that can be burnt for this purpose – they do vary in both price and quality, and this can affect the performance of your system.

Wood is a cheap fuel but offers very low output. It cannot maintain high enough water temperatures to offer a comfortable environment.

• Coal is more expensive and offers a higher output, but its ash and volatile gas output can vary (which will, in turn, reduce its heat output).
• Smokeless Fuels, both manufactured and natural, offer an even higher output and release this heat over a longer period of time.

Controls
It is important to note that solid fuel systems are a little bit more basic than gas ones, but that the same sorts of controls can be introduced. Thermostats can be fitted so that, once the room temperature coincides with the setting, the radiator will be shut down. High limit thermostats are also usually fitted, which prevent the hot water from overheating.

Whilst there is certainly nothing wrong with making the decision to install a solid fuel heating system in your home, it is important that you have all the facts first. And don’t forget that you will have to choose between an open fire and closed fire (room heater) system, so compare them both effectively.