When it comes to home heating, oil boilers remain a popular choice for many households, particularly in rural areas where access to mains gas is limited. But what exactly is an oil boiler, and how does it work? In this blog, we’ll explore the ins and outs of oil boilers, their benefits, and why they might be the right heating solution for your home.
How Does an Oil Boiler Work?
An oil boiler functions similarly to a gas boiler, but instead of using natural gas as a fuel source, it runs on heating oil. The boiler burns the oil to heat water, which is then circulated through your central heating system to provide warmth to radiators and hot water to taps and showers.
Oil boilers require a dedicated oil storage tank, typically located outside your property. The oil is delivered by a supplier and stored in the tank until needed. When the heating system is activated, the boiler draws fuel from the tank, ignites it in the combustion chamber, and transfers the generated heat to water via a heat exchanger.
Types of Oil Boilers
There are three main types of oil boilers:
- Combi Oil Boilers – These provide both heating and hot water on demand, without the need for a separate hot water cylinder. They are ideal for smaller homes with limited space.
- System Oil Boilers – These work with a separate hot water cylinder but have most of the major components built into the boiler unit itself. They are suited to medium-sized homes with multiple bathrooms.
- Regular (Conventional) Oil Boilers – These require both a hot water cylinder and a cold water storage tank, making them best for larger properties with high hot water demands.
Benefits of an Oil Boiler
There are several reasons why homeowners choose oil boilers over other heating options:
- High Efficiency – Modern oil boilers are highly efficient, with many achieving efficiencies of over 90%, meaning lower fuel consumption and reduced energy bills.
- Reliable Heating – Oil boilers provide consistent heat and hot water, making them a dependable choice, especially in colder months.
- Suitable for Off-Grid Homes – If your property is not connected to the mains gas network, an oil boiler offers an effective alternative.
- Long Lifespan – With proper maintenance, oil boilers can last 15-20 years, making them a durable investment.
Considerations When Choosing an Oil Boiler
While oil boilers offer many advantages, there are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Fuel Storage – You’ll need enough space for an oil storage tank, which must be installed in a safe and accessible location.
- Fuel Costs – The price of heating oil fluctuates based on market conditions, so it’s wise to monitor prices and buy in bulk when rates are lower.
- Regular Maintenance – To ensure optimal performance and safety, oil boilers require annual servicing by a qualified heating engineer.
Is an Oil Boiler Right for You?
If your home is off the gas grid and you need a reliable and efficient heating system, an oil boiler could be the perfect solution. However, it’s important to choose the right type of boiler based on your household size, heating demands, and available space.
At T S Gas, we specialise in oil boiler installation and maintenance. Our experienced heating engineers can guide you through the selection process, ensuring you get the best system for your home. Whether you’re upgrading an old boiler or installing a completely new system, we’re here to help.
For expert oil boiler installation in Henley, contact T S Gas today. Our team is ready to provide professional advice, competitive pricing, and top-quality service. Get in touch now to discuss your heating needs!
