of the room to be heated. The average heating capacity is 20 kWh (for a house of about 100 m²) or 40 W/m³. However, this figure varies according to the climatic conditions in your region and the quality of the house’s insulation.
What criteria should I take into account when choosing a boiler?
Depending on your heating needs, the first criterion when choosing a boiler is its power. Moreover, another calculation is to be made if you want, in addition to heating, to benefit from domestic hot water. To correctly size your boiler, call a heating specialist.
The size of the boiler is also an element to take into account. In general, the more powerful it is, the larger it will be. It will therefore be useful to plan enough space to accommodate it. If you have a small area, you should opt for wall-mounted boilers, which take up little space.
Floor-standing boilers are the best option for larger needs, although they do take up space. However, this means that they provide less energy and are therefore suitable for smaller homes. The choice of a boiler is also based on the energy with which it operates. This has a significant impact on its power and energy costs.
Which energy source to choose for the boiler?
There are different models of boilers that you can choose depending on the energy source you want to use.
1. Electric boilers
The operation of an electric boiler is the same as for stoves. It uses either resistance or an induction plate to heat a liquid contained in the tank. To start it, you need to plug it into an electrical outlet. The electric boiler is one of the most widely used models. It is an easy-to-install and space-saving solution. Moreover, it is one of the safest installations. However, it may increase your electricity bill.
2. Gas boilers
If you already have a gas supplier, you should opt for this type of boiler. These models work by condensation. This means that the fuel (gas) will produce steam at a high temperature, heating the water in the tank.
The main advantage of the gas boiler is the comfort it provides. Indeed, it is one of the models that can provide central heating; that is to say, a single installation can heat the whole house. However, it is an environmentally unfriendly alternative because it emits a lot of greenhouse gases.
3. Wood-fired boilers
The wood boiler also works by combustion. The wood provides the energy needed to heat the water for central heating by burning. It is one of the most economical options due to the very affordable price of firewood. Moreover, it is an ecological and renewable energy source. However, this type of installation requires space, not only for the device itself but also for wood storage.
What is the price of a boiler?
The purchase of a boiler presents a more or less important investment, depending on the model chosen. In general, electric boilers are the most affordable. You can easily find a device for around 1000 $. On the other hand, gas condensing boilers will cost you around 4000 $. The wood boiler is one of the most expensive options to buy since the pellet models can cost nearly 15000 $.
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