Schiedel Chimney Systems has recently supplied the chimney for a new biomass heating system at Skanda Vale in Glamorgan, South Wales, which is being used to heat the new purpose-built home for a temple elephant.

At Skanda Vale, a multi-faith ashram, they pride themselves on their work in caring for animals, which include Valli, the temple elephant. Valli has been at the facility since 1981, and for the last 30 years has been living next to the Shakti Temple with her keeper Swami Karuna.

Much of Valli’s time is now spent leaning against the cosy heated walls of her new home, and large amounts of hot water are required during bath time, so the heating system needed to take this into account too.

David Wright, residential sales and marketing manager for Schiedel Chimney Systems, said: "Schiedel was delighted to supply the chimney for this installation. The new building is truly jumbo-sized, measuring 500sq m. That's a big space, so it was important they had the right products.

"We've had our products installed in many different places, but this has to be one of the most unusual. The installation at the elephant house certainly shows how our products can be adapted to different structures and situations, no matter how large or small."

Schiedel's ICS Chimney System was used in combination with an HDG Navora Wood Log Boiler from Euroheat, and the system was installed by Ben Graham from 4 Wood LLP. Mr Graham has been installing Schiedel Isokern products for 25 years now and was delighted with the simplicity of using the company’s ICS product, which links directly onto the ICS base tee kit supplied as part of the package with the HDG appliance.

Schiedel Rite Vent has 45 years' experience of manufacturing stainless steel chimneys, liners and accessories from their factory in Washington, Tyne and Wear.