Heating boilers are primarily characterized by structural and operational parameters. Moreover, the group of performance indicators to a large extent depends on the fuel used. Liquid, gas and solid fuels assume their special qualities, which are manifested in the process of maintaining the unit. To take full advantage of various combustible materials, many homeowners are switching to combined or universal boilers that are multifunctional. Using such equipment, you can use the most suitable type of fuel, focusing on the season or heating requirements.
Features of combined boilers
The main feature and advantage of units of this type is that the user can use another, more affordable one when there is a shortage of one type of fuel. They are also financially beneficial. For example, electric models are considered the most expensive to operate, and gas mixtures, on the contrary, require the least cost. It is important to consider that universal boilers can support the use of an incomplete spectrum of fuels. So, there are models that work only from solid fuel combustible materials or electricity, or modifications that are heated by diesel and gas - to choose from. But multi-fuel devices are also common. In both cases, the boilers support one main type of fuel by means of an installed main burner, and already in addition the user can purchase special integrable installations for working with alternative fuel.
Atmos Model Reviews
Atmos, using the examples of its units from the DC 32SP and DC EP series, demonstrates the central direction of technological development in the segment, which gave a new impetus to the development of alternative heating designs. This equipment operates on the principle of generator gasification, which is complemented by a burner function for biofuels. The peculiarity of this direction is due to the use of pellets - a relatively new type of fuel that gives a high level of energy efficiency. In addition, Atmos universal boilers can run on natural gas and fuel oil. Unlike most combined models, such units also eliminate the need for different burners. The versatility of the function is ensured by the presence in the device of several chambers designed for different groups of fuel filler.
Baxi model reviews
In the Roca line of the Spanish manufacturer, the P-30 model is presented, implemented with a bias in another concept. The developers used lightweight gray cast iron, due to which high thermal insulation was achieved. There are several modifications of this unit, which differ in power - from 23 to 52 kW. The choice in favor of a particular version should be made based on the place where you plan to use this universal boiler. At home, it is quite possible to operate even a medium-sized installation as the main source of heating. In a small apartment, the initial modification of the P-30 is more suitable. Boilers are supplied mainly with solid fuel, but as an alternative, liquid fuel can also be used - diesel or diesel fuel.
Jaspi Tupla model reviews
This model can be considered not only as a universal boiler in terms of the use of different types of fuel, but also as a multifunctional installation in terms of tasks. In addition to the main function of heating, this equipment solves the issues of hot water supply. Other combined models are famous for the same qualities, but in this modification the operating modes are optimized as much as possible for domestic needs. Firstly, this universal heating boiler is endowed with a wide range of safety systems, since working with gas requires a high level of reliability. Secondly, the ergonomics of operating mode control is causing positive reviews not only in terms of electronics performance, but also in relation to structural elements.
Buderus Model Reviews
Buderus is well known to those in the field of utility equipment. In this case, it is worth considering the non-standard Logano S121-2 solution. The universality of the model can be called conditional, since the unit is still mainly focused on working with solid fuel and, above all, with firewood. But the boiler has two significant features. First of all, it is the possibility of interfacing with other heating equipment, which can work on any fuel raw materials. The second noteworthy aspect is related to the fact that the universal solid fuel boilers from the Logano series operate on the pyrolysis principle. In other words, it is planned to recycle the combustion products themselves, which reduces the amount of harmful emissions and increases the heat transfer of the equipment.
Positive feedback on universal boilers
As experienced users of such boilers note, they practically do not lose to similar mono-fuel units in terms of energy efficiency, but at the same time they retain the possibility of using the optimum fuel in specific conditions. Obviously, the absence of restrictions on the choice of a particular combustible material also ensures a reduction in operating costs. In addition, universal heating boilers simply because of the complexity of their device should be provided with additional security systems. Accordingly, the practice of use demonstrates a high degree of reliability of models of this type.
Negative reviews
If during the operation the user has the opportunity to plan financial costs for the purchase of fuel with high savings, then the purchase of such a boiler in any case will cost 20-30% more. Again, technological and structural complexity inevitably contributes to the price tag. The second serious drawback that users note is related to maintenance and basic content. Unlike mono-fuel units, universal boilers require a wider range of preventive measures that their operator must carry out. This also applies to cleaning chambers with burners, and checking the working components, as well as testing circuits that operate under different loads depending on the fuel used.
Conclusion
The trend of transition from traditional to universal boilers was formed against the backdrop of the popularization of biofuels. Those same pellets can not be used for conventional solid fuel furnaces. Therefore, special aggregates designed for biofuel appeared. And against their background, in turn, the idea arose of combining different combustion systems in one design. In its current form, the universal boiler of a private house is able to provide both full heating and hot water service. At the same time, one should not think that the variety of types of fuel available for use greatly simplifies the operation process itself. Of course, due to its versatility, you can count on significant savings. But even it will become possible only under the condition of skillful and timely use of suitable operating modes of the boiler.