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[jmb4570]

Hi Guys, 

I've been wanting an alternative heat source for a couple years to get away from the obnoxious propane bills and this
winter has pushed me over the edge!  I've spent over $2400 in the last three months on propane and this has to change! 

I really like the outdoor boiler idea. Last year I was going to do the indoor add on wood burner but just don't have a good place to run another chimney that wouldn't look awful.  I also decided that I don't want all that stuff in the basement as far as wood, building fires, ashes etc. 

First question is, how far from the house should it be? I have a spot that's about 85' feet. 

Next question is on installation,  I was a general/ restoration contractor for many years.  Is there anything difficult about doing it yourself?  I don't have a good grasp on the hot water conversion yet.  Sounds like a good idea but haven't seen/read a good explanation on how it's done. 

thanks,
jb

[jnicol6600]

Some people have them 10 feet and others 100. I would check with your homeowners insurance to see what they require. The farther away you are the more your insulated pipe will cost.

If you were a contractor and ever watched a plumber and hvac guy eat their lunch you should be able to install one   Their is alot of info on the web and alot of help on this site. the most important part of the install is sizing everything correctly before you start in my opinion.

[Roger2561]

Also, check with your local municipality to see whether you need the EPA II compliant units (gassers).  My state (NH) requires the EPA II units.  Mine is 25 feet away from the house.  I know people with much more knowledge than I will soon come in and offer their expert advice.  Many, Many knowledgeable people on this site who are more than willing to offer you the help you desire.  Good luck with you search.  Roger

[ffbare]

Im new also I have been reading a lot. There has been many good threads on here just read I am confident with the help from the guys on here anyone can install an owb! 

[fireboss]

The closer the better mine is 14 ft away from my house and I had a hard time this winter getting to it from all the snow and ice

[jerkash]

Each situation is different.  In my case, closer is not better.  I live in a two story house.  Mine is 125 feet away from my house.  If I had it closer, I would have to have about 30 of chimney pipe to get it over the eve of my house to keep the smoke from coming in through the  eves. It also works much better where it is because all the wood pile is not sitting beside my house as I like to keep a nice looking yard

[jmb4570]

Thanks for the replies guys.
 My situation is similar to jerkash,  don't want it too close to the main house and I have perfect spot behind a detached garage about 85' from the house.   Going to call the building department today about codes and permits.  I live just inside the city limits but it shouldn't be an issue in my 'ruralish" neighborhood. 

jb

[mlappin]

Have mine about 90' from the house just off to the side of the main sidewalk, its about 10' off the main drive so I can back a dump truck of wood up to it no matter the weather. Door faces the west so most smoke is carried away instead of blowing in my face while loading.

[LittleJohn]

Parents live out of town in "the woods"; garage to OWB maybe 30' at most and about 75' from house.  Only "requirements" or codes they had to meet where;
     Set backs from lake 75' (later found out to be 150' - becasue its "Wetland" not a lake) but already had building permits 
     Electrical inspection
     Septic inspection.