Back Boilers vs Standard Boilers: Comparing Wood Burning Stoves

If you’re exploring alternative ways to heat your home, you might have come across the idea of pairing a wood burner with a back boiler. But how does that stack up against a standard gas or electric boiler? Whether you’re looking to reduce your reliance on fossil fuels or just want something a bit more self-sufficient, it’s worth comparing your options.

In this blog, we’ll break down how back boiler wood burning stoves differ from traditional boilers, and help you decide which one suits your lifestyle and home best.

How Back Boilers Work vs Standard Boilers

Heat Source

A back boiler is attached to a wood burning stove, capturing excess heat from the fire and using it to warm water for your central heating or hot water tank. It’s powered entirely by burning wood, which is a renewable fuel source. A standard boiler, on the other hand, typically runs on gas or electricity. It heats water on demand and sends it through your home’s radiators and taps with minimal manual input.

Installation and Operation

Back boilers are a bit more hands-on. They need to be integrated into your heating system by a HETAS-registered installer, and you’ll need to refuel your stove regularly to keep the system going. Standard boilers are largely automated and easier to install in most modern homes, though the reliance on mains gas or electricity may not appeal to everyone.

Want to learn more about how a wood burner with a back boiler works in practice?
Check out our blog: How do you heat water with a wood burning stove that has a back boiler?

Pros and Cons of Back Boilers

Pros:

• Eco-Friendly: Wood is a renewable energy source. Using sustainably sourced logs or pellets helps reduce your carbon footprint.

• Fuel Savings: Depending on your fuel source, you could save significantly on heating bills, especially if you source your wood locally.

• Off-Grid Ready: Great for rural homes or households looking to become more energy independent.

Cons:

• Manual Refuelling: You’ll need to light the fire, load it with wood, and keep it going. It’s a cosy routine, but not everyone wants the extra effort.

• Regular Maintenance: Chimney sweeps, ash removal, and general upkeep are part of the package.

Pros and Cons of Standard Boilers

Pros:

• Convenience: They’re simple to use, with programmable timers, thermostats, and little daily input required.

• Widely Available: Most homes are already set up for gas or electric boilers, so installation is often quick and straightforward.

• Reliable Heat Supply: Constant warmth at the touch of a button.

Cons:

• Fossil Fuel Dependent: Unless paired with renewable energy sources, standard boilers rely on gas or electricity, both of which come with environmental impacts.

• Ongoing Costs: Fuel prices fluctuate, and electric heating can be expensive to run over time.

Which Option Is Best for Your Home?

Ultimately, the right choice comes down to your priorities and your property.

Choose a wood burner with a back boiler if:

• You’re in a rural area and want to make the most of local or renewable wood fuel.

• You’re happy with a bit of hands-on heating in exchange for lower running costs and sustainability.

• You like the idea of combining cosy ambiance with functional, whole-house heating.

Stick with a standard boiler if:

• Convenience is key and you want heating at the press of a button.

• You live in a property without a suitable flue or chimney.

• Your heating needs are best met with automated systems and minimal maintenance.

Conclusion

Both back boilers and standard boilers have their advadvantages; really comes down to what works best for your home and lifestyle. If reducing your reliance on fossil fuels and cutting heating costs are your priorities, a back boiler wood burning stove could be the perfect fit. But if ease, automation, and low-maintenance systems are more your style, a standard boiler might suit you better.

Whatever you choose, professional guidance is key. Check out our Back Boilers page for more advice, or head over to our Installation page to understand what’s involved in setting up either system.