Oil Boilers are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to the usual gas boiler. They are particularly useful if your house is not connected to the gas network. When it comes to choosing this type of boiler it is useful to be well informed about how it works, and how it will be suitable for your home. In this article we look at the 5 facts about oil boilers you should know.
How Does An Oil Boiler Work?
An oil boiler works in a very similar way to a gas boiler, however it uses a different fuel to enable this process to happen. The fuel is ignited in the combustion chamber and a heat exchange heating up the cold water either from the mains in a combi system, or from a cold water tank.
The Facts You Need To Know
When it comes to choosing a specific boiler or even heating type you need to make sure that you are well informed about the pro’s and con’s. Oil boilers are becoming more and more popular within the UK. Some of the facts that you need to know include:-
Oil Boilers In The UK
With over 4 million homes in the UK not connected to a gas network, the use of oil boilers is increasing. As far as alternative methods go, this is one of the most popular, and is ideal for those that need an efficient and well rounded heating system.
Fuel Accessibility
When it comes to powering your boiler you need to ensure that you have access to oil. Oil will usually have to be brought to your home via truck and will require a storage tank as well. Factoring in these costs is also very important. Most companies will offer various payment methods for oil, but also ensure that you easily access it at short notice so that your home is always heated.
Two Types Of Oil Boilers
When it comes to buying an oil boiler there are two types in which you can choose from. These are heat only and also combination condensing boilers. The oil fired combination boiler has an internal hot water storage tank that supplies hot water.
Oil Boiler Energy Efficiency
The running costs of an oil boiler can be considerably less than the conventional gas boiler, but this will depend on a number of factors. A law passed in 2007 means that all oil boilers need to run at an efficiency level of 86% or above. However, it is also reported that a new condensing oil filled boiler will run at around 92% or 93%.
The use of oil gives you a good return on every unit of energy that it burns. To improve the efficiency further you can use methods such as:-
- Always use a room thermostat
- The hot water tank must have a cylinder thermostat
- Hot water and heating should be programmed separate
- The use of thermostatic radiator valves are suggested
Service & Maintenance
Oil boilers, like their gas counterparts do also require a yearly service. When it comes to having your boiler serviced there are many benefits in which you need to consider. A service will check all of the internal workings and also outer workings to ensure that everything is working correctly. As the boiler also burns oil, it is also important to ensure that the pipework is maintained to reduce any chances of leaks.
To Conclude
With around 4 million homes in the UK not connected to the gas network they are forced to use alternative heating methods. Oil boilers are a great alternative and can also be very good value for money for those needing heating solutions. Knowing the 5 facts about oil boilers you should know, should help you to decide if this is suitable for you. Greener Homes are your local heating experts. If you would like more information on our services then please do Contact Us.