How Does An Oil Heating System Work?
Oil heating systems are a clean and safe option for the environment and have a longer lifespan compared to other fuel systems. Oil heating systems can be a good investment for your home because they are cost-effective and efficient. Newer heating systems, in particular, often have impressive annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) ratings, which measure the efficiency of the system. In this article, we answer the question, “How does an oil heating system work?”.
First, let’s clear up some misunderstandings about oil heating systems.
Misconceptions About Oil Heating Systems
Contents
- The Environment: While some people may think that heating oil is not as clean as other types of heating systems, this is not true. Heating oil meets the EPA‘s air pollution standards, which makes it a good choice for the environment.
- Price: Heating oil systems are more affordable and last longer than other heating systems. They can save you about 5% on fuel costs.
- Lifetime: Heating oil systems have a longer lifespan than propane and natural gas systems. Oil systems can last for around 30 years, while propane and natural gas systems typically last for 11-15 years.
- Safety: There is a common misconception that heating oil is not safe to use, but this is not the case. In its natural state, heating oil is similar to diesel fuel and is safe to use as long as it is stored correctly. There is no risk of explosion or other safety concerns when heating oil is handled and stored properly.
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How Oil Heat Works
Heating oil systems use vents, baseboards, or radiators to warm your home. When the thermostat senses that the temperature has dropped below a certain level, it sends a signal to the heating system to start.
The way it works is as follows: the oil is pumped from the heating oil tank to the burner, where it is mixed with air to create a warm mist. The mist is then ignited in the combustion chamber, heating the air or water that warms your home.
The type of heating system you have, either an air or water (hydronic) system, determines how the heat is distributed throughout your home. Air systems, also known as central forced-air systems, use a network of ducts and vents to circulate the heated air.
There are two main types of heating oil systems to choose from furnaces and boilers. Both types become more efficient as the model becomes newer. HVAC technology has made significant progress in creating energy-efficient heating systems. Furnaces and boilers have a few differences, but they both operate more efficiently when they are newer.
Oil-Heat Furnaces
Modern minimum-efficiency furnaces, also known as condensing furnaces, are designed to be more efficient and effective than older atmospheric models. One key difference is the presence of a fan, which helps to circulate exhaust air through a heat exchanger.
Newer condensing furnaces let less heat escape to the outside. Instead of extruding the hot exhaust right away, it cools gases first.
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Oil-Fired Boilers
Hydronic boilers heat water, which is then circulated throughout the house to warm the living space through radiators or baseboards. The cooled water is then returned to the boiler to be reheated, completing the cycle. This process allows for consistent and efficient heating of the home.
Steam boilers are another type of heating oil system. With these units, after water boils, steam moves through its system and heats through radiators.
Furnaces and boilers are both used to heat homes, but they differ in the way they do it. Furnaces use air to warm the home, while boilers use water. Both systems use a similar process to heat oil.
The fuel is burned in a combustion chamber to create flames, which then pass through a heat exchanger to warm the air or water circulating through the system. Furnaces and boilers both use this process to generate heat and maintain a comfortable temperature in the home.
Oil Heating System Maintenance
To keep your oil heating system operating at its best, it’s important to perform regular maintenance. This includes cleaning the thermostat before the start of the heating season. A clean thermostat can help maintain a consistent temperature in your home. Other maintenance tasks may include cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting and tightening connections, and checking and replacing the oil filter.
Maintaining the blower and stack parts of an oil heating system is important for the overall function of the heater. These components help to monitor the burner and remove particles and debris that can disrupt the system’s performance.
To ensure that your heating system is running smoothly and efficiently before the winter season, it’s a good idea to have it professionally inspected and cleaned. An annual cleaning can help improve the system’s performance, lower your home heating costs, enhance the air quality, and increase your comfort.
Environmental Benefits Of Using Oil Heating Systems
Oil heating systems produce clean and efficient heat, with newer models producing almost no smoke or combustion debris inside the home or released into the atmosphere. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers oil burners to be one of the cleanest sources of combustion. This means that oil heating systems can provide an environmentally-friendly option for home heating.
Properly maintained oil tanks for storing heating oil pose no threat to the environment. Heating oil is also a safe and environmentally-friendly choice, as it is non-toxic and does not contain carcinogens. Additionally, it is biodegradable, meaning it can break down naturally in the environment.
Proper storage and maintenance of oil tanks used for heating can ensure that they pose no risk to health or the environment. Heating oil is also a safe and eco-friendly choice, as it is non-toxic and biodegradable and does not contain carcinogens.
In addition to their cost-effectiveness and long lifespan, oil heating systems have a minimal impact on the environment. They release almost no smoke or debris into the air, making them a more sustainable option for home heating. These environmental benefits are just one more reason to consider investing in an oil heating system.
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Conclusion
An oil heating system is a cost-effective and eco-friendly option for home heating. Modern systems have improved in terms of their environmental impact, and they can save you money in the long run. It’s important to have your heating system checked by a professional before the start of the cold winter months to make sure it is working properly.
A professional HVAC contractor can give you peace of mind by ensuring that your system is in good condition and won’t break down when you need it most. Don’t forget to schedule a cleaning for your heating system to maintain its performance and efficiency.
Call Lawes Company For All Of Your HVAC Needs
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Get the most competitive prices on HVAC services locally from Lawes Company. Experience greater home comfort, lower energy costs, and higher levels of energy efficiency with our HVAC maintenance support. If your HVAC system needs a repair or if you want to replace this equipment, we will help you find the right products for your budget and your home. Our work always comes backed by a reliable guarantee. For a service appointment, call Lawes Company. Getting an in-home estimate from us won’t cost you a thing.
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