Many homeowners utilize heating oil to ensure that their homes are warm throughout the winter season. However, some have never used heating oil-powered HVAC units before for various reasons. If this is the case, then you most likely have a lot of questions in mind.
This article will help you get the answer to some of the most common heating oil FAQs:
Is Heating Oil Safe To Use?
Table of Contents:
- Is Heating Oil Safe To Use?
- Is Heating Oil Eco-Friendly?
- Can I Rely On Home Heating Oil?
- Is Heating Oil Efficient?
- How Long Do Oil Heating Systems Last?
- What Does AFUE Mean?
- Where Does Heating Oil Come From?
- Why Is Heating Oil Red?
- Contact The Better Home Heat Council For Your Home Heating Oil Needs
YES. Heating oil will not explode. Furthermore, it won’t ignite accidentally, and the fumes are also non-lethal when inhaled. It is a safe substance to use, and you can rest easy knowing your home is in good hands. However, just like any other machine, your HVAC system may malfunction. You will see visible signs that something is wrong, such as the smell of fuel and visible smoke. When you see this, take action immediately by shutting your system down as soon as possible.
Is Heating Oil Eco-Friendly?
YES. The primary issue has always been the sulfur content in heating oil. However, decades of research have ensured that the heating oil we use today is cleaner compared to that used in the 1970s. In fact, it is cleaner by at least 95 percent. Emission levels have also been significantly decreased. Moreover, new systems also ensure that no dirt or soot is produced as a by-product. Rest assured that heating oil is clean oil.
Can I Rely On Home Heating Oil?
YES. Heating oil is available when you need it. Just contact your local heating oil delivery service company when you need a fresh supply of heating oil delivered to your home. Check your oil tank’s gauge. When you are at 30 percent full, it is recommended that you schedule your next delivery soon. For any other heating oil problems, call your oil supplier to assist you.
Is Heating Oil Efficient?
The law of supply and demand means that fuel rates might be higher during the winter compared to other seasons. Therefore, you would want an efficient HVAC system that will consume the least amount of heating oil as well as help you save on heating costs. The efficiency level of oil heating units can be as high as 95 percent. Heating oil also burns 16 percent more efficiently than gas. This way, you receive optimum thermal comfort while requiring less heating oil.
How Long Do Oil Heating Systems Last?
A heating oil system can last for up to 30 years. Its average lifespan can be extended when it receives routine maintenance from a professional HVAC technician. It has a far more superior lifespan than a gas furnace as it only averages at 11 to 14 years. If you are looking for a budget-friendly system, then it is clear that a heating oil system can help you with this better than a gas furnace.
What Does AFUE Mean?
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency or AFUE is the heating unit’s ability to convert fuel to heat. It is usually found on stickers attached to your heating unit along with a number. The number stands for the unit’s efficiency. The higher the number, the better the efficiency it has.
Where Does Heating Oil Come From?
Crude oil is refined via distillation to get heating oil. There are over 50 oil-producing nations around the world. The US has domestic and international sources for crude oil, including countries like Canada, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela. However, crude oil is refined locally.
Why Is Heating Oil Red?
Heating oil is not naturally red. It is, in fact, it has a yellow-orange tint after it has been refined. However, it has been mandated that heating oil be dyed red to make it easier to identify and differentiate from diesel fuel that is used for cars. It is also for tax purposes. The dye does not affect the heating oil’s performance.
Contact The Better Home Heat Council For Your Home Heating Oil Needs
The Better Home Heat Council (BHHC) is a local association that aims to help homeowners with everything that has to do with fuel oil heat. We provide you with knowledge, especially on things regarding the economic and efficient use of heating oil. We also assist people in identifying and solving issues about energy-efficiency in their homes or office. We accomplish this by pushing them towards an effective and affordable path to ensure that their living areas become more efficient and cost-effective.
The BHHC also supports heating oil delivery service companies that offer services, products, and solutions to homeowners in the Lehigh Valley. If you are searching for a superior home heating oil delivery service near you, click here. Rest assured that most of the fuel oil delivery service companies in our system also provide free energy consultations.
For questions and concerns concerning your HVAC system or oil delivery, click here to contact the Better Home Heat Council today.