How Does an Oil Boiler Work?

In properties where access to the gas supply is limited (such as rural or remote), oil-fired boilers offer a great heating solution. In this edition of the Tanks R Us blog we look into how these oil boiler systems work (including their installation, maintenance and efficiency) and what type of oil storage tank you might require. 

The Basics of Oil-Fired Heating Systems

An oil-fired boiler works in the same way as a gas boiler but uses oil as its fuel source. The process begins with the delivery of heating oil, which is stored in a tank on the property. At Tanks R Us we have a large stock of tanks for this specific purpose (with options for hire). The oil is fed from the tank into the boiler's combustion chamber, where it’s ignited. The heat generated from this combustion is transferred to water via a heat exchanger, and the heated water is circulated through a system of radiators or underfloor heating to warm the property and provide hot water for taps and showers.

Key Components of an Oil Boiler System

These are the essential parts of an oil boiler system.

•    Oil storage tank: Stores the heating oil delivered to the property.
•    Combustion chamber: Where the oil is ignited to produce heat.
•    Heat exchanger: Transfers heat from the combustion process to the water.
•    Circulation system: Distributes heated water throughout the property.

Types of Oil Boilers

Choosing the right type of oil boiler depends on the specific needs of a household. 

•    Combi (Combination) boilers: Combi boilers provide both heating and hot water directly from the boiler with no need for a separate hot water cylinder. They heat water on demand and ensure a continuous supply, and as there's no need for additional storage tanks, they’re ideal for smaller properties with limited space.

•    System boilers: System boilers require a separate hot water cylinder but no cold-water tank. They are connected directly to the mains water supply. The boiler heats the water, which is then stored in the cylinder until needed. This setup is suitable for households with higher hot water demands, such as multiple bathrooms.

•    Regular (conventional) boilers: Also known as traditional or heat-only boilers, this type uses both a hot water cylinder and a cold-water storage tank (typically located in the loft). Water from the tank is heated by the boiler and then stored in the cylinder. This type of system is often found in older homes and is suitable for properties with existing traditional heating systems.

Installation 

When installing an oil boiler, several factors should be considered.

•    Location: Oil boilers can be installed within the home or outside. External installations free up space indoors and reduce noise. Modern external oil boilers are designed to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring their durability and reliability.

•    Placement: The oil storage tank should be installed in a secure and easily accessible location. It's important to adhere to safety regulations around the tank’s placement so that you can prevent potential hazards and facilitate easy refuelling.

•    Flue: A proper flue system is crucial, to expel combustion gases safely. The type and placement of the flue will depend on the boiler's location and design.

Benefits of Oil Boilers

Oil boilers offer several advantages.

•    Efficiency: Modern oil boilers can achieve efficiencies of up to 95%, ensuring that a significant portion of the fuel is converted into usable heat.

•    Independence: Ideal for rural areas where gas supply is unavailable.

•    Flow rates: Especially with combi boilers, users can enjoy strong water pressure without the need for additional pumps.

•    Storage: Homeowners can monitor and control their fuel usage, buying oil in bulk when prices are favourable.

Types of Oil Tanks

There are three main types of oil tank which can integrate into necessary systems.

•    Plastic: These tanks are a popular choice for domestic and commercial oil storage due to their lightweight and durable nature. Constructed from high-quality polyethylene, these tanks are resistant to corrosion and UV degradation, ensuring longevity and low maintenance. Available in various sizes and shapes from Tanks R Us, plastic tanks offer flexibility in installation, accommodating different space requirements. Their seamless, moulded design reduces the risk of leaks, providing a reliable storage solution for heating oil and other fuels. Additionally, plastic tanks are generally more cost-effective than steel, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.

•    Steel: These tanks are renowned for robustness and suitability across diverse environments. Ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 litres in capacity, these tanks provide secure storage solutions for oil, particularly in areas prone to harsh weather conditions. The sturdy steel construction ensures resilience against physical impacts and environmental factors, offering enhanced security and longevity. While steel tanks may require periodic maintenance to prevent corrosion, their strength and durability make them a preferred choice for many industrial and commercial applications. Their ability to withstand extreme temperatures further underscores their versatility in various settings.

•    Bunded: These tanks consist of a primary storage tank enclosed within a secondary containment system, effectively providing a double layer of protection against leaks and spills. This design ensures that any oil escaping from the inner tank is captured by the outer bund, preventing environmental contamination. Available in both plastic and steel variants, bunded tanks come in a range of capacities to suit different needs. They are often a regulatory requirement for commercial and industrial installations due to their enhanced safety features. The additional layer of security offered by bunded oil tanks makes them a good choice for environmentally conscious businesses.

Oil-fired boilers offer an efficient heating solution for many UK households, especially those without access to the gas grid. Part of the necessary system around an oil boiler is an oil storage tank, and here at Tank R Us we can supply. If you’re not sure exactly which type suits your situation, contact us to discuss. We’re always here to help!