When we talk about home heating systems, oil boilers are probably one of the most preferred heating solutions in UK homes. Where there is no gas connection available certainly oil boilers are considered to be an excellent alternative. Upgrading your existing oil boiler with a new model also delivers more energy efficient heating solution to your home.
What are the benefits of using heating oil? It reduces your overall household’s carbon emissions and lets you contribute to the better cause. What’s more rewarding is the aspect that it may also allow you to minimize waste. It also allows you to join the green movement. However, there are always some exceptions and considerations that people should be careful of while buying heating oil for their boilers. We have carefully compiled some proven expert tips for buying home heating oil for your boiler. So without any further ado, let’s jump on to 7 tips that all the consumers must be aware of.
Top 7 Tips for Buying Home Heating Oil & New Oil Boiler
1. The first thing you should check is whether or not the boiler is over 20 years old, and if it is then, we suggest you must immediately consider boiler replacement with the latest and energy-efficient unit. It would yield significant benefits in the longer run. You can expect reduced energy use and better performance.
2. If you’re still using an old boiler, get it serviced before winter starts. Check for any leaks. Get the boiler checked by an expert OFTEC engineer for a thorough service of the boiler. A dirty or poorly aligned unit can result in the waste of a significant amount of oil. It may also pose health hazards.
3. Homeowners should also do regular energy audits to identify areas where the performance may lacking. Check if insulation is proper, the windows and the doors are energy efficient or not. These little things can cause significant impact. Hence you should get them checked and, if needed, get it fixed. We all know that thermostats do make a huge difference when it comes to household energy consumption.
4. You should also know the basics like the tank capacity and your average usage per year. It will help you plan better and ensure that you won’t over-buy or sign the contract for way more oil than what is required. If a company offers you fuel at a price that is significantly under standard amounts, then always check the quality of the oil. It can be a potential red flag if they offer oil below the standard price range. Buyers should be cautious before buying the oil. We all want to save money, but not at the expense of low-quality oil.
5. Check if the dealer you are buying oil from is registered and complies with the guidelines set out by the authorities. You should always propel more and verify the license of the company you’re dealing with.
6. Only buy oil from companies you have previously dealt with or, it is recommended by someone who has. Also, if you pre-pay contracts, then experts advise purchasing from your credit card as it gives you purchase protection. Prices are volatile and may change in the future, so you should consider this fact before the agreement. There may be options to cap pricing. It sets a maximum per-gallon price and hence makes it less risky than pre buys.
7. Compliance is a must, so check if all the norms are met or not. Find as much about the company as possible. Get a properly dated and signed copy of the contract. Keep the oil delivery receipts safe; in case there is a dispute, these slips would be helpful. You should also find out more about the environmental friendliness of the boiler system and the emission. As responsible citizens, we should be aware of how greener tomorrow is.
If at any point during the maintenance or repair of your old boiler, you realise that it might cost you more in the long run, then go for a new boiler installation or get a better central heating installation to meet your energy requirements. Buyers should not overlook the future expense with old boilers. We often make this mistake and end up paying significantly more in the long run. Talk to experts at The Boiler Installation Specialists to know more about oil and oil boilers.