How Does An Oil Heating System Work?
Oil heating systems are a fantastic option for homeowners. These home comfort systems provide a safe and clean heat source which is also healthy for the environment. Also, you get more usage from an oil heating system than other alternatives due to its long lifespan.
You will find that home oil heating systems are ideal investments that are efficient and cost-effective. Manufacturers of newer models boast about the impressive AFUE ratings. This article answers a common question, “How does an oil heating system work?”.
First, we begin by dispelling common misconceptions people share about oil heating systems.
Popular Myths about Home Oil Heating Systems
Contents
- The Environment: We confirm the rumors that heating oil systems burn less cleanly than other systems are untrue. Fuel oil burns clean and meets the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards for air pollution. Manufacturers have continued to improve the built-in technology in the equipment, making home heating oil systems more efficient, reliable, and safe for the environment.
- Price: Other heating systems can cost up to twice as much as heating oil systems; therefore, you will be happy with your investment. Also, you will benefit from an estimated 5% reduction in fuel costs by using an oil heater.
- Service Life: While natural gas and propane heating systems can operate for 11 to 14 years, heating oil systems run for almost 30 years.
- Safety: Some people think heating oil is unsafe, but this is incorrect. Similar to diesel fuel, heating oil is safe in its natural state. Store your heating oil correctly to reduce threats of explosion. You do not need to worry once you organize the storage.
Related Article: How to Read Your Heating Oil Tank Gauge
How Oil Heat Works
Heating oil systems heat homes in three ways: using radiators, vents, or baseboards. Once your thermostat reading drops to a certain level, it sends a signal to the heating system to emit heat. As the oil warms, it travels to the burner from the tank via the pump and transforms into warm air. This air and fuel mix flows into the burner, creating flames in the combustion chamber.
Oil heats the water or air that warms your home, but this is determined by the type of home heating system installed. Air systems or central forced-air systems utilize a duct network to spread heated air throughout your house. Water systems, also called hydronic heating systems, warm water and transport it to the baseboards or radiators. However, this movement depends on how you set up your home system.
You can choose from two home heating oil systems: furnaces or boilers. These systems have similarities and differences. One similarity between the two systems is that newer models run more efficiently. As stated above, manufacturers have refocused HVAC technology to improve performance to develop a more energy-efficient heater.
Oil-Heat Furnaces
Up-to-date minimum-efficiency home furnaces outperform dated atmospheric models because a fan moves the exhaust air via a heat exchanger.
You will enjoy the performance when using a modern furnace powered by oil because the newer models are condensing furnaces. They reduce the heat that escapes outside rather than venting the hot exhaust. Therefore, it cools the gases, and as the water vapor condenses, the exhaust flows outdoors via a plastic pipe on the side.
Related Article: How AFUE Ratings Determine The Efficiency Of Home Heating Equipment
Oil-Fired Boilers
Hydronic systems heat water which the system transports through the house. The water heats all components via the baseboards or radiators. Conversely, the cool liquid flows back to the boiler to be reheated.
Another home heating system option is the steam boiler, which is not a popular model. It works by boiling the water and pushing the steam through the components, and heat moves through the radiators.
While boilers and furnaces perform the same function, heating your home, the difference is what creates the heat. Boilers rely on water, while furnaces use air. The process is similar to heated oil, which keeps the system warm while transporting cold water or air to be recycled for reheating.
Home boilers and furnaces depend on oil to create heat, which starts in the combustion chamber, where flames are created from the oil. The heat exchanger increases the temperature of the gases or water that flow throughout the unit.
Related Article: What To Look For In A New Oil Boiler For Your Home
Maintenance of Your Home Oil Heating System
Like other heaters, an oil heating system needs regular maintenance to keep the system performing optimally. First, before the heating season begins, check and clean your thermostat to ensure that it regulates the temperature correctly.
You should also maintain the stack parts and the blower in the heating oil system to ensure your system is free of debris. Foreign particles slow your heater, which can cause other issues.
You can perform some maintenance tasks on your home heating system, but contact an experienced technician to overhaul the system. A professional will evaluate and verify that your system is ready for the winter season. Therefore, schedule your HVAC maintenance appointment if you have not arranged it yet.
Your preventative maintenance schedule should include an annual cleaning by a technician to improve your system’s performance, improve air quality and decrease home heating expenses. Of course, your efforts are to ensure that your family is comfortable when it gets cold.
Benefits to the Environment
Oil heaters create clean heat. Modern systems emit little or no combustion debris and smoke in your house or the air. The EPA confirms that oil burners are one the cleanest sources of combustion.
You do not have to worry about storing your home oil tank because it does not threaten your health or the environment. Take care of your tank so you can use it for many years. Heating oil does not contain carcinogens, so it is non-toxic. Also, the oil is biodegradable.
Investing in heating oil has several advantages, including its environmental benefits. You can enjoy a reduced energy bill, a reliable and durable heating system, and a safe system that does not emit debris or smoke.
Conclusion
We have shared several advantages of home heating oil systems and how they operate. Modern units safeguard the environment while saving you money over time.
Property owners should contact an experienced technician to check their home heating systems before the weather gets too cold. Expert technicians facilitate all systems evaluations and maintenance while confirming that your system will run efficiently, especially when your family needs it. Schedule your maintenance appointment today!
For Superior Heating Oil Deliveries, Call Townsend Energy
Townsend Energy is proud to be a trusted, affordable heating oil supplier in the area. We offer different delivery plans and financing options. This way, you can customize your oil deliveries by choosing which option works best for you. By working with us, you can expect affordable oil prices and fast and reliable fuel deliveries. Click the link to view our service area.
Also, when you need maintenance service or repair for your heating system, our professionally certified technicians can help you. Our home heating services aim to improve efficiency and comfort, while reducing your energy costs. Call Townsend Energy today to schedule your appointment.
Contact us now at (800) 722-4101 to find out more!