When it comes to heating options for boats, back boilers are a popular choice. These ingenious systems combine the functions of a stove and a central heating unit, efficiently distributing heat throughout the vessel. In this comprehensive guide to back boilers on boat stoves, we’ll explore what back boilers are and how they work. We will also cover the different types available. This includes pumped back boiler systems with pipe thermostat control and gravity-fed systems. Let’s dive in!
What are Back Boilers?
Back boilers are specialised attachments that can be added to existing boat stoves. These are heat exchangers designed to harness some of the heat produced by the stove. They transfer this heat to a coolant-based heating system. This allows for enhanced warmth distribution throughout the boat.
How do Back Boilers Work?
Back boilers utilise the principle of heat transfer through conduction. As the stove is lit, it begins to generate heat. This heat is conducted through the back boiler coils or heat exchanger. These components are in direct contact with the burning fuel. The coolant within the coils or heat exchangers absorbs the heat. This is circulated throughout the boat and provides a comfortable and consistent source of warmth.
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Pumped Back Boiler Systems with Pipe Thermostat Control
A popular choice for boats, pumped back boiler systems offer good control over boiler temperature and heat distribution. These systems consist of a back boiler, a circulation pump, and a pipe thermostat.
The circulation pump ensures circulation between the back boiler, radiators, and/or calorifier, maintaining a continuous flow of heated coolant water. The pipe thermostat switches on the circulation pump automatically when the back boiler has reached a set temperature. This ensures that coolant water is circulated when the stove is in use and prevents overheating of the back boiler.
Pumped back boiler systems provide excellent heat distribution, thanks to the forced circulation of heated coolant water. This type of system is particularly suitable for larger vessels or those with multiple radiators. The pump can effectively deliver heat to different areas.
Gravity-Fed Back Boiler Systems
Gravity-fed back boiler systems are another option for heating boats. These systems operate without the need for an electric water pump. Instead, they rely on the force of convection and gravity to circulate heated water.
Gravity-fed backboilers work in a straightforward manner. As the stove generates heat, hot water rises naturally through the back boiler due to the principle of convection. As hot coolant water rises, cooler coolant water from the radiators flows back towards the stove, creating a continuous flow.
One significant advantage of gravity-fed back boiler systems is their simplicity and reliability. Since they don’t rely on electrical components, there are no concerns about power outages or mechanical failures. Additionally, gravity-fed systems tend to be more energy-efficient and require less maintenance compared to pumped systems.
However, it is essential to consider the limitations of these systems. These systems rely on gravity. As a result, they may not provide the same precise control over temperature and heat distribution as their pumped counterparts. They also might not be suitable for larger vessels or those with multiple heating zones. The passive circulation of heated water may not be sufficient to reach every area adequately. They also require part of the pipework to run at a higher level. This makes it more difficult to hide pipes from view.
Hybrid Systems
Hybrid systems incorporate a diesel heater or gas boiler into the back boiler system. They offer a versatile solution in situations when only a small amount of heat is required, and running the stove could result in excessive heating of the boat cabin. They can also regulate the temperature at night better, through a room thermostat control on the diesel heater. These systems are especially useful for installations incorporating a calorifier. They allow heating of the calorifier only to produce hot water during the summer months. They also ensure that a backup heat source is available should one of the appliances suffer a breakdown.
It is advisable to consult with a trained professional to determine the most suitable hybrid heating system for your boat and to ensure it is installed correctly and functions safely.
Our Back Boiler Stove Range
At Marine Heating Solutions, we offer a range of stoves with backboilers. Here are some of the models we sell and install:
- Bubble Diesel and Solid Fuel Stoves and Range Cookers: These 4 to 5kw stoves feature 1kw and 2kw backboilers, making them suitable for medium to large size vessels. The Bubble stoves and range cookers provide both heating and cooking capabilities, ensuring convenience and warmth on your boat.
- Salamander Solid Fuel Stoves and Cooking Ranges with Small Sideboilers: Designed for small to medium-sized boats, the Salamander Hobbit Stove and the Little Range Cooker come with small side boilers that add an extra heating element. They are efficient and compact, ideal for maximising space on your vessel.
- Refleks Diesel Stoves: Our range of Refleks Diesel Stoves offers options for small, medium, and large boats. These stoves are known for their reliability and versatility, providing you with customizable heating solutions based on your boat’s size and heating requirements.
Important Safety Considerations
It is crucial to note that while boat stoves with back boilers offer efficient heating solutions, they can be potentially dangerous. There is an explosion risk if they are installed incorrectly. Therefore, it is highly recommended that the installation of back boiler heating systems be carried out by trained professionals with experience in marine heating systems.
Boat owners should exercise caution. They should thoroughly check the credentials and qualifications of engineers before booking them to install a back boiler heating system. Hiring a certified professional ensures that the installation is done correctly, adhering to safety regulations and minimising the risk of accidents or malfunctioning.
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