Wood and wetbacks

Many wood or pellet fires, ranges or burner systems can have wetbacks fitted to them. A wetback can work as a valuable supplement to your hot water system.

A wetback is a pipe arrangement that fits in the back of the firebox and uses some of the heat from the fire to heat water.

What's good about wetbacks

• It can reduce your hot water heating costs by supplementing your hot water needs.
• Because wood is a renewable energy source, it can reduce the environmental impacts of your hot water heating.

What to be aware of

• Adding a wetback means you get less of the fire's heat going into the room. Most existing fires have adequate capacity to do both, but keep it in mind when sizing a new wood or pellet fire.
• Not all fires and hot water systems are suitable for wetbacks. Check with your fire manufacturer and your plumber if a wetback will work for you.

More information

Choose the right water heating system
Simple ways to save on hot water