The topic of sustainability is becoming more and more relevant in energy supply. On the one hand, this is due to rising prices and, on the other hand, to the search for independent or regenerative energy sources to protect the environment. Many homeowners choose to install a solar panel on the roof to generate electricity or a fireplace in the living room for additional heating. However, both technologies can also be sensibly combined with each other in order to save energy, especially in the transitional period.
1. Advantages of a stove
A stove can be set up in the home with very little space. It is not permanently installed, but only has the connection to the chimney. The heat generated radiates into the room in all directions and the blazing fire can be comfortably viewed through a pane of glass. In addition, the models are usually cheaper than the built-in fireplaces. There is even a trend towards water-bearing stoves. It not only supplies the house with heat, but also relieves the heating system. Service water and heating water are generated by the warmth of the stove in order to save money in the long term and to protect the environment. The heat generated also reaches the other rooms in the house.
Wood-burning stoves are highly energy-efficient and use very little fuel. Since it is a renewable raw material, the heating method is considered environmentally friendly and has a good CO2 balance. The wood only emits as much CO2 during combustion as the tree absorbed during its growth. Whether combi oven, Swedish oven or water-bearing oven – prime provides information about the different types on its website and states the advantages of each.
2. The combination with a solar system
In the summer months, the stove is hardly in operation. The heating system can still be supported with a regenerative energy source: with solar thermal. The solar system heats the heating water and service water in order to save on fossil fuels in the system and reduce running costs. A water-bearing stove can be sensibly combined with a solar system. Both systems are connected to a memory. This means that the water can also be used at sunset or after the fire has gone out. The combination is not only functional, but a modern way of environmentally friendly and sustainable heating. If you want to improve or convert your system anyway, you should think about this interaction.
3. Central heating replacement?
Both systems in combination can still not replace the central heating. This also applies to passive houses or low-energy houses. The combination of a water-bearing fireplace and a solar system are not permitted as sole heating. The building still needs a conventional heating system that runs on oil or gas. Alternatively, there is pellet heating or the heat pump as a system. Correspondingly low exhaust gas values are required from the central heating system in the house, which a stove cannot achieve. The chimney sweep would measure more precisely and treat the stove like a gasification boiler.
Note: Nevertheless, it makes sense to support classic heating with modern technology. This works best with a buffer memory.
4. What should be considered when planning?
The new heating system and its extension must be planned carefully. In combination, a complex system is created in which all components must be coordinated with each other. A complete redesign is usually done faster than a combination with existing components. The entire system is made up of several components. When choosing a stove, for example, it depends on whether its output is sufficient for the volume of the room. A buffer tank absorbs the heated water and only releases it when needed. The solar collector uses the sun’s energy for the same water cycle. Here you have the choice between flat collectors or tube collectors. Of course, a corresponding number of pipes, valves and safety systems are necessary to ensure that there is no negative pressure and that the entire technology runs efficiently.
4.1. Calculation of the costs
The costs for a water-bearing stove with a solar system are difficult to calculate and vary greatly. However, a total issue of 6,000 to 8,000 euros is not uncommon. The more power the stove has, the more expensive the models are. The system must be tailored to local and personal needs. A tube collector is usually cheaper than a flat-plate collector. A combined buffer tank or a hygiene tank costs over 1,000 euros. Additional man-hours are to be expected for the installation.
While the wood-burning stoves are not funded, there may be a grant for those solar thermal system. The prerequisite is the built-in memory. The promotion of the plant should at least be checked and helps with the selection of the technology. The basic state subsidy is given as a flat rate of 2,000 euros. In addition, the heating system should be optimally controlled. This is the only way to ensure the best possible energy generation and energy distribution in the household. The highest efficiency is usually in the transition months, such as spring or autumn.