Renewable Heating - Top Tips for Running Biomass Boilers Effectively

The boiler is in, the house is toasty and it is time to start reaping the rewards of sustainable living with a new biomass energy system. However, stop: every responsible installer should give the following heads-up to their customers, says Michael Wright, of Yorkshire Heat Pumps, the renewables expert based near Harrogate in North Yorkshire.

Plan pellet deliveries

Monitor the fuel levels in the pellet store and order in good time to avoid running out - especially in cold weather. We have heard of customers having to wait a few days for blown deliveries at peak times.

Storing bagged pellets

Bagged pellets are cheaper when bought in bulk. However, if you buy a pallet (96 bags or just under a tonne), you need somewhere dry to store them, ideally not far from the boiler so you do not have to carry them too far. Most deliveries are left on the kerbside, with customers expected to move the bags into the store.

Take care if you shop around on price

From October 2015, you must buy pellets from a supplier that meets RHI scheme sustainability criteria and evidence of this may be required. Check if the supplier has accreditation by searching on the Biomass Suppliers List. Watch out though as a supplier on this list might also sell cheaper fuels without an accreditation number.

Plan your routine maintenance

The display on the boiler will indicate when the ash can needs emptying or the boiler needs cleaning. While emptying the ash can is a simple task which can done when convenient, the boiler needs to be turned off and cooled before you start cleaning. Ideally avoid doing this at a time of peak heat demand or when it is cold outside.

Be ready for some mess

Cleaning involves getting rid of dirt and residues that build up inside the boiler and can be a little bit messy. Some customers consider getting a high temperature vacuum cleaner to make the process as quick and easy as possible.

Be aware of your long-term obligations

Remember to check the life of the carbon monoxide alarm - most models last 7 or 10 years. The renewal date is often displayed on the alarm.

In addition, for a non-domestic installation:

Schedule your meter readings

With a narrow window of just one week to submit your quarterly meter reading, set a calendar alert and arrange for someone else to take and submit the reading if you are going to be away. Given these meter readings have to be submitted for 20 years, you will need a long-range calendar!

Plan re-calibrating your meter

Most heat meter models need re-calibrating every 10 years. Check when it is due and plan the re-calibration carefully. It will need to be removed and sent to the manufacturer or other calibration body and need reinstating ahead of the next meter reading.

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