The Benefits of Oil Boilers: A Comprehensive Guide for Rural Living

Living in rural areas has many benefits, but it also brings with it a quite unique set of logistical challenges - especially when it comes to heating your property. Gas might be the most common choice in town and cities, but generally off-grid properties in country locations often rely on alternative heating. One of the best options for rural homes is the oil boiler, which offers steady heating and hot water, regardless of location. In this edition of our blog, we’ll explore oil boilers and offer a comprehensive guide for rural living.

1. Why oil boilers are ideal for rural living

Oil boilers provide a level of self-sufficiency that can be crucial for those living in rural areas. Off-grid homes that don’t have access to the mains gas supply may have to solely on electric heating – and that is not necessarily financially viable due to higher energy costs, and with electricity prices fluctuating more than oil.

Boilers use heating oil that’s stored in tanks on the property and make for a system that’s budget-friendly and easily manageable. Beyond just practical advantages, oil boilers have evolved as technology has improved over the years. Modern models offer high efficiency ratings, meaning that they convert more of the oil into usable heat, lowering both your fuel costs and environmental impact. These boilers operate quietly, are durable and can deliver a reliable heating source even in the most remote or isolated areas.

2. Benefits of oil boilers

Oil boilers are particularly well-suited to rural living for several reasons.

• Cost: While oil prices can fluctuate, boilers are cost-effective. Rural homeowners can monitor their stock of oil and purchase in bulk when prices are lower, providing greater control over heating costs. Unlike mains electricity (or LPG, liquid petroleum gas), an oil system means you can avoid the need for a continuous supply from a third party and allows for flexible purchasing to your advantage.
• Efficiency: Many modern oil boilers are designed as condensing units, which reclaim heat that would otherwise be lost, further boosting efficiency. Some models can achieve extremely high efficiencies, making them a practical option for environmentally conscious homeowners.
• Reliability: Rural living often comes with the risk of power cuts – and these can interrupt heating for homes which are reliant on electric boilers. By contract, oil boilers are not dependent on the electricity grid, making them more reliable.
• Supply: Unlike mains gas, homeowners can store fuel on their property when they have an oil system. This means they can closely monitor their fuel usage, restocking when needed rather than relying on a utility company’s schedule.

3. Types of oil boilers

There are several types of oil boilers, each of which has advantages that may be better for certain types of homes. Selecting the right type depends on the property’s needs, layout, location and specific household requirements.

• Internal: An internal oil boiler is one that is installed inside the home itself, often in a utility room, basement or garage. These units tend to be quieter and more compact, so they’re ideal for homes where installation indoors is feasible. They are well-insulated to reduce noise and can be integrated with existing indoor systems. Internal oil boilers require adequate ventilation but they generally perform well in both small and large homes.
• External: For homes which have limited indoor space, an external oil boiler is the right practical choice. This type of boiler is designed for installation outside, equipped with weatherproof casings for protection from rain and snow etc. External boilers are ideal for cottage-style or traditional homes in rural locations where preserving the indoor space is a priority. Outdoor oil boilers are also easier to access for routine maintenance without disrupting the interior of the home.
• Combi: Combi oil boilers (short for combination boilers) provide heating and hot water on demand without the need for a separate water tank. This means they’re a great option for smaller homes or properties where space is at a premium. Combi boilers are efficient and, because heating and water heating are combined in a single unit, installation is less complex. Combi boilers are available in both internal and external models.

4. Installation and maintenance

Installing an oil boiler is something that should only be handled by professionals who’ve got experience in rural and off-grid heating systems. Proper installation will ensure safe operation and the maximum efficiency, and you should also arrange for regular maintenance (annual) to keep the boiler running smoothly and to prevent breakdowns. Routine maintenance includes checking fuel levels, inspecting the boiler’s parts, and cleaning any build-up that could reduce performance over time.

Many modern oil boilers come with smart features that make maintenance easier, like self-diagnostics and remote monitoring. You can check in on performance via an app on your mobile phone, and address issues before they become costly repairs.

5. Savings

While the initial set-up cost of an oil boiler can be higher than that of electric heaters or LPG boilers, the long-term savings will offset the spend. High-efficiency models reduce your monthly heating bills, while the fact you can buy oil in bulk when prices are lower offers even more savings. Oil boilers have a long lifespan, so they’re a worthwhile investment for owners of rural properties who are looking for predictable heating costs.

For those living in the countryside or moving to a more rural and remote location, an oil boiler is about more than just heating on a daily basis. It’s also about gaining control over your expenses and ensuring warmth during power outages.

Here at Tanks R Us, the range of boilers manufactured by Firebird proves to be consistently popular, as the models on offer provide reliable, cost effective and highly convenient heating system. Get in touch for more info!