How to use your oil storage system efficiently
Oil storage heating systems work best when your home is kept at an even, comfortable temperature of between 18-20 degrees Celsius. You should try to avoid big spikes in internal room temperature. These can cause a build-up in condensation and mould.
You can control the internal temperature of your house by using the thermostat. If you want to control the temperature of individual rooms, use thermostatic valves on each radiator.
If you’re watching your heating bill, turn down the thermostatic radiator valves in rooms which are rarely used. Also do this where you don’t like it too hot, e.g. bedrooms. Keep the doors to these rooms closed. This means warm air from the hallway/landing isn’t being wasted. You should also avoid putting large items of furniture in front of radiators. This will stop heat being distributed throughout your home.
If your heating system is also heating your water, you should set your thermostat to no less than 60 degrees Celsius. This will kill any bacteria in your water tank. Turning your water tank to a lower temperature could leave you at risk of becoming ill.
The essentials to managing your oil storage system – in brief:
Try to
- Heat your home to a comfortable temperature of between 18-20 degrees Celsius.
- Get to know the controls for your heating system. Use your thermostat and thermostatic valves on the radiators to control the temperature of your house.
- Turn down thermostatic valves on the radiators in rooms which are not in use.
- Leave the settings alone once you have found a comfortable heat.
- Keep the doors closed throughout the house to prevent heat from escaping.
Avoid
- Allowing internal temperatures in your house to fluctuate, causing spikes in temperature.
- Turning the thermostat up by too much.
- Putting large items of furniture in front of radiators. This will prevent heat from being distributed throughout your house.
- Turning your thermostat down below 60 degrees Celsius. If your heating system is also heating your water, the thermostat must be set to no less than 60 degrees. This will kill any bacteria in your water tank.
More details if you need it
What is an oil storage system?
- Oil storage systems are mainly found in rural areas where houses aren’t connected to the mains gas network. Oil is delivered by your chosen supplier and stored in tanks close to the property. Pipes connect the tanks to the boiler inside your home and heat your property.
How do oil storage systems work?
- Oil storage systems work in a similar way to gas boilers. The key difference is that oil is used to fuel the boiler instead of gas. The oil creates a flame which heats the pipes carrying water. This water is used to warm radiators and provide hot water to the home.
Oil supplier
There are a number of oil suppliers. Hastoe recommends that you regularly review your tariff. When your contract period is coming to an end, make sure you explore the market to ensure you are on the most competitive rate. Price comparison websites may be useful.
Useful links
