January 5, 2025

Stay Cosy and Save: Heating Water With Log Burner

Using a Log Burner to Heat Water

Imagine this: it’s a chilly evening, you’re curled up by the fire, and your home is not just warm but has hot water on tap—all thanks to your log burner. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it’s entirely possible. A log burner doesn’t just create a cosy glow; it can also serve as a clever way to heat your water. Let’s dive into how it all works and why it might just be your next smart home upgrade.

How Log Burners Can Heat Water

When it comes to heating water with a log burner, you’ll need a system that transfers the heat from the fire to your water supply. There are a few options for how this magic happens.

Back Boiler Systems

A back boiler is a classic solution. It’s fitted at the back of your log burner, working like an unsung hero that channels heat from the fire directly into your water. That hot water can then travel through your radiators or fill your hot water cylinder. If you live in a cottage or a larger home that loves to drink up the heat, a back boiler system is a game changer.

Heat Exchangers

Heat exchangers are a bit more high-tech but just as effective. They work by transferring heat without the water and fire ever touching—think of it as a piping-hot handshake. Usually made of metal coils or pipes, they sit near the hottest part of your burner. If you’re after a closed-loop system where your water stays separate but still gets hot, this option could be your perfect match.

Indirect Cylinders

An indirect cylinder stores hot water that’s warmed by a coiled pipe running through it. The log burner heats the coil, which then heats the water in the tank. If you’ve got other heat sources, like solar panels or an immersion heater, an indirect cylinder can juggle them all seamlessly, giving you flexibility and consistent hot water.

Benefits of Using a Log Burner for Water Heating

So, why bother using your log burner to heat water? Here’s where things get exciting.

Cost Savings

Who doesn’t love saving money? By using wood instead of gas or electricity, you can slash your energy bills. Logs—especially locally sourced ones—are often much cheaper than fossil fuels. Imagine making your morning cuppa knowing you’re spending less to heat the kettle water. That’s a win-win.

Renewable Energy Source

Wood is a renewable resource, as long as it’s sourced responsibly. When you burn wood, it only releases the carbon dioxide it absorbed while growing, making it a carbon-neutral option. Choosing well-seasoned, sustainable logs means you’re staying warm without harming the planet.

Reduced Reliance on Gas

With energy prices always on the rise, having a log burner that heats your water gives you peace of mind. If there’s ever a disruption to your gas or electric supply, you’ve got a backup plan in the form of a roaring fire and a piping hot bath. It’s self-sufficiency at its finest.

Considerations for Water Heating with a Log Burner

Of course, not everything is as simple as tossing a log onto the fire. There are a few practical things to consider before you go all in.

System Compatibility

First things first—make sure your current plumbing setup is up to the task. Some systems may need extra bits, like pumps or thermal stores, to handle the heat from your burner. Bringing in a professional to assess your setup can save you a world of hassle later.

Insulation and Pipework

Good insulation isn’t just for keeping the wind out. Properly insulated pipes and a well-insulated hot water cylinder help you get the most from your log burner. The better the insulation, the less heat you lose along the way—meaning more hot water where you need it.

Hot Water Demand

How much hot water does your household actually need? If you’ve got a big family that loves long showers, you might need a bigger back boiler or a system that can keep up. Knowing your hot water habits helps you pick the right setup and avoid running out when you need it most.

In short, a log burner isn’t just a statement piece—it’s a smart, sustainable way to heat your home and your water. With the right system, you can stay warm, save money, and reduce your reliance on gas. So why not make the most of that flickering fire and turn your cosy glow into a double win for comfort and cost?