​  Indoor versus Outdoor Wood Boilers:

Posted by Anom

2023 Jun 1st

​ Indoor versus Outdoor Wood Boilers:


We often have customers ask for the pros and cons when comparing an Indoor to an Outdoor wood or pellet boiler. We have collected the most common comments from both sides and listed them here.

Indoor Boilers:

Pros...

* are generally more efficient primarily because the water you are heating is sitting inside your heated home not outside in the cold elements. requiring less fuel to maintain operating temperatures.

* do not require costly insulated pipe and glycol to protect from freezing when not in use.

* often can be installed on properties where outdoor wood boilers cannot due to government regulations that impose minimum setbacks from property boundaries and EPA air quality guidelines.

* may actually lower the cost of your home insurance depending on where your home is located. Some insurance companies actually charge a higher premium if the wood boiler is outside for fears that should something go wrong, it may ignite a forest fire and your home insurance company will be on the hook for all related costs. You should inquire with your insurance company.

Cons...

* requires the installation of a chimney system and fresh air intake.

* possibly higher insurance premiums depending on the insurance provider.

* carrying wood or pellet fuel indoors.

* some people have mentioned increased noise within the home, this would of course depend on where the boiler is installed.

Outdoor Wood Boilers:

Pros...

* do not require the installation of an extended chimney system or fresh air intake.

* the sawdust, bugs and overall mess from the firewood is outdoors and away from the home

* may provide lower home insurance rates as the fire is outside and away from the home (often depends on the insurance company and your geographical location)

Cons...

* the boiler should be installed with Glycol antifreeze) to protect the system from freezing while not in use , vacations or breakdown. Added cost.

* trenching and installation of insulated pipe & electrical wire to operate the boiler and transfer the heated water to and from the structures being heated. Added cost and potential disruption of existing landscaping.

* may be difficult or prohibited to install based on local government regulations, location and setbacks from property boundaries. You should check your local regulations before proceeding.

* having to go outside to load approximately every 12 hours.

We carry a great selection of both Indoor and Outdoor Wood & Pellet Boilers at OffGridSupply.ca. Here is a link to the category https://offgridsupply.ca/heating/wood/