An oil-fired boiler is a heating solution that uses oil as fuel to provide heat and hot water for both residential and commercial settings. Unlike gas boilers, oil-fired boilers require oil to heat water. The heating process involves burning oil to heat water, which then circulates through a water or steam heating system, bringing hot water to your faucets at home or in your business.

Where are oil boilers installed?

Oil boilers can be installed both indoors and outdoors based on your space availability and preferences. However, due to the space required for oil storage tanks, outdoor installation is often preferred. For outdoor installations, oil storage tanks can be either above-ground or underground, considering factors such as aesthetics and excavation costs.

How does oil-fired boiler work?

The operation of an oil-fired boiler is similar to a gas boiler. Cold water is heated by a heat exchanger when the oil is ignited in the combustion chamber. Oil-fired boilers are known for their efficiency, often reaching 90% or more. They effectively utilize heat and excess gas generated during combustion, turning it into additional heating energy. This optimizes energy usage and minimizes waste.

Key differences between gas and oil boilers lie in their fuel storage requirements. Gas boilers are connected to the mains and have a continuous fuel supply, while oil boilers require an on-site tank to store oil for combustion.

Oil-fired boilers offer several benefits:

• Lower initial costs compared to gas-burning furnaces

• Ease of service and maintenance

• Higher heat output per unit of fuel consumed due to oil's higher burning temperature

However, they also come with considerations:

• The cost of oil can be higher than gas

• On-site oil storage is required

• Regular cleaning is needed to prevent soot and grime build-up

Why heating oil is not always favored

While heating oil is not always the preferred choice due to the availability of cheaper alternatives such as natural gas, it remains a viable option in areas where gas isn't readily accessible. Misconceptions about heating oil's environmental impact also contribute to its lesser usage. However, modern heating oil is efficient, clean, and safe, boasting high energy density and a greener profile compared to natural gas.

Choosing an oil boiler offers economy and convenience. Despite growing environmental concerns and policy shifts away from fossil fuel heating, oil boilers remain practical in situations where gas pipelines are unavailable or electric boilers prove costly. As with any major decision, it's essential to evaluate the options and consider individual needs to determine whether an oil-fired boiler is the right choice for your heating requirements.