Heating costs are one of the largest parts of a household budget. More and more people therefore choose energy-efficient or passive houses and look for heating systems that combine comfort with lower operating costs. A fireplace with a water jacket can be one of such solutions.

How a water-jacket fireplace works

A fireplace with a water jacket differs from a standard fireplace because it heats water, not only air. The insert is designed so that hot exhaust gases transfer heat to water flowing through the jacket. The device can then cooperate with a central heating installation and supply radiators.

It can also support domestic hot water preparation, especially when connected to a properly selected buffer tank.

Installation requirements

A system with a water-jacket fireplace must meet specific safety requirements. It needs protection against overheating, proper hydraulic connections and cooperation with other elements of the heating installation.

Why use a buffer tank?

A buffer tank stores excess heat produced by the fireplace and releases it later. This improves comfort, protects the installation and allows the fireplace to work more efficiently. The result is more stable heating and better use of the energy generated from wood.