Another reason why biomass heating may not be more popular is that HVAC contractors and engineers need more technical data about this heating equipment from the manufacturers, as well as from AHRI and ASHRAE, in order to be comfortable specifying it, said Joseph Seymour, executive director, Biomass Thermal Energy Council. “In addition, there needs to be more information out there concerning fuel consistency, as well as a consensus measure for stating the efficiency of the equipment. We’re working on all these issues right now.” (See sidebar on page 18.)
With customers expressing more interest in non-fossil fuel technology, contractors may find it worthwhile to learn a little more about this type of alternative heating system.