Whether you’re new to oil fired heating or have been using it for years, you’ve probably come across some techie terms that have bamboozled you along the way.
A flue system designed by the boiler manufacturer. Typically supplied in kit form, balanced flue systems provide flexibility in flue termination, such as low/high level horizontal or vertical. Balanced flues also provide fresh air directly to the boiler to support combustion.
Bio-liquids are fuels manufactured from renewable sources such as used cooking oil, plants, seeds or animal fats grown and harvested specifically for making fuel. Bio-liquid may have 100% renewable content or be 100% renewable mixed with mineral heating fuels such as Kerosene or Gas oil to make what is commonly known as a “bio-liquid blend”.
SEDBUK (Seasonal Efficiency of Domestic Boilers in the UK) is the average annual efficiency achieved in typical domestic conditions. All oil boiler models are independently tested.
An enclosure for containing a single skin tank. The bund prevents pollution in the event of an oil leak or spillage.
A boiler designed to provide instantaneous hot water on demand, and heating.
Available as a regular boiler or combination boiler, condensing boilers are the most efficient type available. Such boilers help reduce heating bills and carbon emissions. In most regions, condensing boilers should be installed to meet with building regulations.
A switching device fitted to the domestic hot water cylinder that controls the temperature of stored water. The thermostat should be set to at least 60°C to prevent the formation of Legionella bacteria.
The point at which boiler exhaust gases are expelled from the boiler into open air.
Higher in viscosity (thicker) than Kerosene, a burning oil more suited to larger or non-domestic boiler installations. Also known as 35 second, Class D oil to BS 2869.
Learn more about IHO (Industrial Heating Oil) here.
A factory-produced oil storage tank comprising a single skin tank enclosed in an outer bund. Integrally bunded tanks also have fitted lids to stop debris and rain water entering the bund area.
A light, low-sulphur and very clean burning oil suitable for use in most types of domestic oil heating and cooking appliances. Also known as 28 second, Class C2 oil to BS 2869.
Read our material safety data sheets for Kerosene.
An electrically powered valve used to control where water leaving the boiler goes, that is, to provide heating or hot water. Valves are available which can do both.
Oil is the generic term for kerosene, gas oil and bio-liquids used as fuel for oil-fired appliances.
A pipe that carries exhaust gases from a boiler. Open flues commonly use an existing chimney which should be lined to prevent brickwork absorbing exhaust gases. Unlike a balanced flue, an appliance connected to an open flue must be provided with a fresh air supply from outside of the building.
An extension to a balanced flue system, these kits provide even more flexibility when having to avoid features such as doors, windows, etc.
A programmer is a time-activated switching device that regulates when the boiler comes on for heating and/or hot water. They may be a simple time switche or have multiple functions to give greater control of the heating system.
A boiler designed to heat water only. The heated water is then circulated around the heating system by external pump, valves, and controls on the system.
A device that switches heating control equipment on and off according to the temperature set by the user. SEDBUK efficiency (see: boiler SEDBUK efficiency)
The most basic form of oil tank comprising a steel or plastic skin which contains the oil. Often this type of tank would not meet regional building regulations.
These are valves which can be connected to individual radiators to provide temperature control local to the radiator. The fitting of TRVs in a dwelling allows areas such as bedrooms to be maintained at a lower temperature than living areas or the bathroom.
Dividing the building into separate heating zones, each with independent time and temperature control.
Barton Petroleum offer a jargon-free heating oil delivery service, you can find out more by clicking here.
An oil fired boiler uses heating oil, such as kerosene or gas oil, to generate heat. The boiler heats water inside a heat exchanger, which is then circulated around central heating systems to provide hot water and warmth throughout the home.
Oil central heating is ideal for properties not connected to the gas network. While gas boilers are common in urban areas, oil heating systems are often more suitable in rural locations and can still be highly energy efficient, especially with modern oil boilers.
Most domestic oil heating systems use kerosene, while gas oil is typically used for larger or commercial systems. The type of oil used can affect performance, efficiency, and overall heating oil prices.
A standard heating oil tank or oil storage tank can hold anywhere from 500 to 2,500 litres of oil, depending on the size of the property and the heating demand. Regular monitoring ensures your oil system runs smoothly without interruption.
Yes, modern oil systems are designed to be highly energy efficient. Advances in boiler technology, including improved heat exchangers, allow more heat to be extracted from the fuel, reducing waste and lowering running costs.
The main advantages of oil heating include strong heat output, suitability for homes not connected to the gas grid, and compatibility with a wide range of central heating systems. It also allows homeowners to shop around for the best heating oil prices.
In an oil system, the boiler heats water which is either stored in a cylinder or delivered on demand. This ensures a consistent supply of heated water for both hot water and heating needs across the property.
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