May 9, 2025 Wood Gun

Looking to install an indoor wood boiler in your home or shop? Whether you’re aiming to cut energy costs, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, or embrace renewable heating, installing a wood gasification boiler like the Wood Gun™ is a smart move. But proper installation is key to safety, efficiency, and long-term reliability.

This guide walks you through the step-by-step process to install an indoor wood boiler using best practices derived from the Wood Gun™ Super E110 installation manual.

 

Step 1: Choose a Location

Before anything else, select a suitable location for your indoor wood boiler:

  • Indoor installation only – The Wood Gun™ is certified for indoor use and must be protected from the elements.
  • The boiler must not be installed near gasoline or flammable vapors, making garages unsuitable unless properly partitioned.
  • Place it on a non-combustible surface like concrete, brick, or stone that extends 6 inches on the sides/rear and 24 inches in front .
  • Maintain clearances to combustibles: at least 6 inches on sides, 24 inches in front, and 18 inches for stovepipe.
  • Minumum recommended room size for the Super E110 is 11 feet front to back, 6 feet (10 feet with backup) left to right and 6 feet tall.

 

Step 2: Position and Level the Boiler

  • Use appropriate equipment (like a pallet jack, forklift, or 1″ pipes) to move the boiler into position.
  • Set it as close to the chimney as possible to minimize stovepipe length.
  • Level the unit to ensure proper function and combustion performance.

 

Step 3: Prepare the Boiler Room

  • Ensure the room is well-lit, ventilated, and has emergency lighting.
  • Provide a constant fresh air supply to support combustion.
  • Add a floor drain and water supply line for cleaning and maintenance.
  • Install CO monitors and smoke detectors at appropriate locations .

 

Step 4: Connect the Chimney

  • Use a Class A chimney – masonry with a tile liner or UL-listed prefabricated chimney only.
  • Do not connect to a chimney serving another appliance.
  • Maintain a chimney temp of at a minimum of 250°F to prevent creosote and condensation.
  • Use high-temp silicone to seal all joints. This is important because the Wood Gun™ operates with a slight positive flue pressure.

 

Step 5: Pipe the Hydronic System

  • Follow a parallel piping configuration if you’re integrating with an existing heating system.
  • Include key components:
    • Expansion tank
    • Mixing valve (to maintain return water ≥160°F)
    • Pressure relief valve
    • Fill valve and circulator pump (boiler controls can activate this automatically)
  • Insulate pipes to improve efficiency and prevent heat loss.

 

Step 6: Install Electrical Components

  • Provide 120V AC power with a 15-amp breaker.
  • Install a disconnect switch at the boiler room entrance.
  • Connect wiring to the main control box per the manual’s diagrams.
  • Be sure to ground everything properly and test the aquastat and safety controls.

 

Step 7: Install Required Components – Cyclone Ash Collector, O₂ Sensor & Flue Thermocouple

These components are essential for safe and efficient operation of your wood boiler, and they must be properly installed by the installer:

  • Cyclone Ash Collector: Mounts to the boiler’s left-side flange using bolts and a silicone gasket. It captures fly ash before it enters the flue, reducing buildup and maintenance needs.
  • O₂ Sensor: Threads into the cyclone collector and monitors combustion efficiency. Apply high-temp sealant to the threads to prevent leaks.
  • Flue Thermocouple: Also threads into the cyclone and provides temperature feedback to the control system. Correct wire polarity is essential for accurate readings.

All cables must be routed through the control box and secured neatly with zip ties. Follow the manual carefully during assembly to ensure proper function and safety compliance.

 

Step 7: Add Accessories (Optional but Recommended)

    • Smoke hood: Captures smoke when the load door is opened.
    • Low water cutoff: this shut the boiler down if no water is detected in the boiler. This is required in some states and manicupalities.

 

Step 8: Fill and Pressurize the System

  • IMPORTANT! Fill the system with water only when the boiler is cool.
  • Pressurize to 12–18 psi for typical operation.
  • Bleed air from the system and check for leaks.
  • Check that all controls and sensors are properly connected.

 

Step 9: Start the Boiler

  • Load seasoned wood (19–28% moisture) to ensure optimal gasification and efficiency.
  • Start the fire per manufacturer instructions.
  • Monitor temperature rise and ensure the fan and air valves cycle properly.

 

Step 10: Perform a Safety and Efficiency Check

  • Verify:
    • Stable combustion
    • Return water temps ≥160°F
    • Leak-free piping and venting
  • Adjust controls as necessary to fine-tune performance.

 

Final Thoughts

Installing an indoor wood boiler like the Wood Gun™ SE110 requires planning and attention to detail—but the result is a high-efficiency, low-emission heating solution that can save you thousands over time. Always consult a qualified installer and follow state and local codes to ensure a safe, long-lasting installation.

For more detailed technical guidance or to request a professional installation, contact Alternate Heating Systems.