Everything you Need to Know About Oil Boilers discussed by Total Boiler Services

Commercial Oil Boilers are an effective boiler alternative for businesses and commercial properties and are sometimes the only option if there is no gas connection available to the property. Our Oil Boiler article will tell you everything you need to know when it comes to an oil boiler installation, repair or service for your business or commercial property.

An oil boiler is a boiler system which will supply heat and hot water to a domestic or commercial property or business. The size of an oil boiler depends on the type and size of the property it is being installed into and therefore the capacity, heating and hot water that is needed. They range from normal size boilers right through to plant size boilers and Toal Boiler Services are experts in the installation, repair and servicing or any size oil boiler your property has or needs. We have a full planning and design service and will come out to your property and assess its layout, yours and your business needs and advise you on the best and most up to date boiler that will match this. Our services are unrivalled and each of our OFTEC registered engineers has the expert knowledge and experience of oil boilers and are reliable and professional every time as customer satisfaction is at the heart of what we do.

An oil boiler works by using the same process as a gas boiler but using an oil supply instead. The oil is the fuel used to create a hot water supply which runs through the properties pipework and radiators to create warmth as and when it is needed. The difference between a gas and oil boiler is the fuel which is used to power it and create the hot water. An oil boiler will be connected to an oil tank at the property compared to a gas boiler which would be connected to a gas main supply. Since 1st April 1st, all oil boilers in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland legally have to be a condensing oil boiler, unless your installer requests a formal exemption from OFTEC which is not often granted.

A condensing oil boiler reduces the need and reliance on fossil fuels, making them more environmentally friendly as they are designed to be used with oil (fossil fuel) as well as a renewable energy source which makes them efficient and more eco friendly.

About Fossil fuels

Fossil fuels which include oil, coal and natural gas have fueled our homes, businesses and transport since the industrial revolution and this includes our heating and hot water supply. They have changed the way we live and work dramatically and in light have supported huge economic growth and technological evolution over the years. It has become apparent and research has shown that using fossil fuel is having a devastating impact on our environment and this is because of the vast amounts of carbon gases that are as a result of burning fossil fuel which is then transported into the atmosphere, otherwise known as carbon emissions. Our climates are changing which is leading to droughts, flooding and rising sea levels, damaging our natural environment and the species that live within in from the fossil fuel we are burning all over the world and this is known as climate change.

Fossil fuels are also known as non-renewable energy sources, they take millions of years to form and they do not renew so once they are used they are gone. We are very quickly getting to a point where we will run out as well as the huge destruction impact they are having on the environment and this is one of the main reasons that more and more people and businesses are using renewable energy sources to power and heat our homes and businesses.

About Renewable Energy

Renewable energy is an energy source that is naturally sourced and replenished and is as a result of a natural process, also known as the refining of biomass. Renewable energy sources are made from solar, wind, geothermal and, or hydroelectric action power. The different types of renewable energy are sourced from: air, wind, solar, biomass, hydro and tidal which are natural sources which have no negative impact on the environment and our ecosystem.

How will I know if I need a new oil boiler?

There comes a time when a boiler will need replacing as it will no longer be an efficient system for your commercial property or business and will start costing you more in your energy bills to keep your property warm and with a reliable hot water supply. New boilers are now extremely durable and technically advanced and will last you for 10-15 years plus as long as they are services regularly by a qualified engineer and well looked after.

There are many different signs that could mean that your boiler system either needs a service, repair or replacement and these can include:

  • Regularly switching off and it needs to be manually restarted
  • Not providing enough heat throughout or in certain rooms when the heating is on
  • Your property is feeling too hot and hotter than the thermostat temperature setting
  • Your water isn’t hot enough
  • You have no hot water at all
  • You are hearing noises including; creaking, humming, buzzing, groaning, these can all be signs that your boiler needs servicing, repairing or replacing
  • Your energy bills are increasing
  • You are finding leaks around your boiler or pipework. Be aware that these can often lead to floods which can result in damage to your property and belongings
  • Frequent and ongoing breakdowns
  • No longer able to source replacement parts when needed
  • It isn’t able to support smart technology which will help to reduce your energy costs
  • It is not repairable

Can I replace a gas boiler with an oil boiler?

If you need to replace your commercial boiler then you can replace a gas boiler with an oil bio-oil combination boiler which means they run on some renewable energy. At Total Boiler Services, we will come out to your property and assess your business needs and will advise you on the type of boiler that is best for you and your business in the short and long term.

Condensing Oil Boilers

A condensing boiler is a boiler system which is fueled by either oil or gas which reuses any of the heat that would have been wasted in non-condensing boiler systems. Condensing Boilers are highly efficient and can typically offer more than 90% on the heating value by condensing the water vapour in the exhaust gases and recovering its latent heat of vaporisation, which would have been wasted in a non-condensing boiler. The condensed vapour leaves the boiler system in liquid form via a drain. The latent heat from the exhaust gases is extracted and then re-used again by the boiler system, making them significantly more efficient than older and non-condensing boiler models.

How much does an Oil Boiler cost to install?

The cost of any boiler depends on the size and set up of your property. If pipework, flues or the water tank location need to be changed or replaced, if radiators need to be moved or new ones fitted then this will result in the installation costing more. If your boiler is installed in the same location it will be significantly cheaper than installing a new boiler in a completely new location. Total Boiler Services offers a free, no-obligation site assessment where we will come out to your property to assess the type of boiler you need and will then advise you on the best oil boiler system for you. Our experienced OFTEC registered engineers have the most up to date knowledge of the latest and most efficient oil boilers and years of experience in the industry and will explain the benefits and any disadvantages of each one. We provide you with a competitive quote and a planned schedule of work so you know what to expect before and during the installation process and we work with you to ensure there is minimal impact to the operational running of your business. Our OFTEC registered engineers provide you with the relevant building regulation certification for your new oil boiler system and provide you with full training to ensure you know how to operate it and make the most from it. After the installation, we can come out and service and maintain your boiler for you and are always available for any questions you may have.

How are Oil Boilers rated?

Oil boilers are now rated using the ErP (Energy Related Products) Directive and have their performance ratings shown on their energy efficiency labels as all other boilers do, the most efficient is A++ with the worst rating being a G. Modern oil boilers can be highly efficient if you use an experienced and reputable OFTEC registered engineer and there are now over 90 “A” rated oil boiler models on the market. The ErP Directive was introduced in 2015 by the European Union to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the environmental impact of energy products. The directive enforces the development and improvement of energy-related product design to improve their energy efficiency.

Power Flushing Oil Boilers

An oil boiler should be power flushed regularly to keep it working effectively and efficiently and to keep your energy costs down. Power flushing your oil boiler system will internally clean and improve the efficiency and performance of your system and can significantly decrease your energy bills. Some heating systems will have poor circulation over time resulting in lukewarm radiators, lack of hot water, increased noise and sludge build-up and ‘power flushing’ rectifies this. Any sludge and residue build-up is removed by inline magnetic filtration which makes your boiler system work more efficiently. When a system is professionally power flushed by Total Boiler Services we flush the system in different directions to dislodge any engrained sludge and debris that has built up over time. We use special chemicals to ensure the sludge and debris breaks down inside the system before it’s then drained. Powerflushing your boiler system regularly will prolong its life, increase its efficiency and in addition to this will decrease your energy costs.

How often does an Oil Boiler need to be replaced?

If an oil boiler is well maintained and serviced regularly by an OFTEC specialist it can last anything from 10 years upwards. You may not want to replace your boiler due to the installation cost, however, an inefficient boiler will cost you more in energy costs in the long run. When thinking about replacing your oil boiler you should plan the costs into your business finances over a long period of time rather than a one-off cost as you will see the benefits over this time. Frequent breakdowns and repairs, as well as safety, should also be a consideration if you are deciding if you should replace it. Increasing energy costs and improvements in technology mean that boiler efficiency is an important consideration now when you are running a business or if you own a commercial property.

Total Boiler Services OFTEC registered engineers will come out to your property or business and conduct a full site assessment. They will advise you on the boiler system you should consider and the benefits and any disadvantages of each one, along with its technical capabilities. We provide you with a full written no-obligation quote, a detailed work schedule and will work with you to ensure there is minimal impact to your operation when we are on site. After we have installed your new oil boiler we will leave you property clean and clear of any mess and will provide you with full training and support to ensure you get the most from it and the best efficiencies. Our services also include a repair, maintenance and service option to ensure your new oil boiler works effectively and safely and won’t need replacing before it needs to.

Only an OFTEC registered engineer should install an oil boiler system as they have the training and certification to sign off the installation against building regulations. If you use a non OFTEC registered installer or business then you will need to ensure an OFTEC registered engineer comes out after the installation to certify the installation has been done correctly and safely and falls in line with all building regulations which will delay the use of your new oil boiler and be an additional cost.

About OFTEC

The OFTEC Association (Oil Firing Technical Association) is a trade organisation that recognises competence for people who work with oil appliances, including boilers. They ensure all registered engineers have the qualifications and experience to safely and effectively, install, repair or service an oil boiler. Prior to an engineer becoming OFTEC registered they have to complete an approved training course and pass an assessment. They are then reassessed regularly by OFTEC to ensure they continue to meet the required working standards to remain OFTEC registered.

OFTEC started in 1991 as a trade association representing the interests of oil equipment manufacturers, developing courses and assessment material for training providers with the aim of raising standards in the UK and Republic of Ireland’s oil heating services. In 2002 it became a UKAS accredited competent person registration scheme. Competent persons schemes are intended to improve safety standards in the building industry and to make it easier for homeowners, businesses and organisations to choose qualified experienced and reputable tradespeople. There are approximately 8,000 engineers who are registered with the OFTEC competent person scheme in the UK.

OFTEC registered installers are able to self-certify that their work meets Building Regulations and can also carry out certain types of work without a building control notice. When you use an OFTEC registered installer you receive an official certificate to confirm that the work completed meets the official industry standards for safety as well as quality and as a result of this it means you don’t have to spend time or money getting the work checked by your local authority.

Why should you use an OFTEC registered engineer?

An OFTEC registered engineer is not only able to install, repair or service of an oil boiler system safely but they are also competent and legally permitted to declare it compliant with the relevant building regulations, giving you peace of mind it is safe and compliant to all UK legislation.

Benefits of using an OFTEC registered engineer

  • Peace of mind that your oil boiler has been installed, repaired or services by a qualified and experienced engineer
  • Peace of mind your oil boiler is working safely and efficiently
  • There is no requirement to get your oil boiler certified by a competent OFTEC engineer after the installation or repair work has been completed, saving you time and money
  • They will assess your property and business and advise you of the most up to date, type and brand of oil boiler to suit you and your property, ensuring it is efficient and cost-effective for you
  • Their work is protected by the OFTEC Workmanship Warranty which in the unlikely event they fail to meet building regulations you don’t have to cover the cost of rectifying the installation. The warranty lasts for six years from the date of installation

What are the benefits of having an Oil Boiler serviced?

Newer style boilers are extremely energy efficient but if you don’t get them serviced annually, they can quickly develop problems which can cause breakdowns and costly repairs later down the line. It is essential that you look after your boiler and have it serviced by an OFTEC registered engineer regularly to avoid any unwanted disruptions and to keep it running safely and efficiently all year round.

A regular oil boiler service will:

  • Keep it running efficiently, reducing or maintaining your energy bills
  • Maintain it making it last longer without the need for an earlier than needed replacement
  • Minimises costly breakdowns
  • Keeps you and your employees safe
  • Reduces the likelihood of flooding which can damage your property, its contents and disrupt your business
  • Gives you peace of mind it is running efficiently
  • Keeps you compliant with UK Commercial Boiler regulations

What should I look for in an Oil Boiler Engineer?

  1. Always ask for recommendations from other local businesses.
  2. Do your research and look for businesses that offer OFTEC registered installation, repair, maintenance and emergency call-out services
  3. Look for customer reviews, good and bad to ensure you have a grounded view of a business
  • A company who has OFTEC Registered Engineers
  • A company that has their work regularly assessed to ensure ongoing competence and by whom
  • A company that has valid insurance including public liability insurance and to what amount
  • A company that offers installation, repair, maintenance and emergency boiler services
  • A company that offers a full planning and design service for new boiler installations
  • A company that offers a boiler control and management system
  • A company that can tell you who they have worked for in the past
  • A company that has good customer reviews
  • A company that has been recommended by another business
  • A company that has a good website normally shows they are professional and have the resources to always ensure your electrics are safe and well maintained

Total Boiler Services

We work throughout Wales and the West of England and are qualified to work on all commercial boiler makes & models. We are a family-owned business and our customers and the service we provide is at the heart of what we do.

Total Boiler Services Teams

  • Planning & Installation
  • Emergency repair service
  • Scheduled & preventative maintenance
  • Specialist project division

We offer oil and gas boiler installations, repair, maintenance and servicing as well as all types of plumbing services. Our teams are DBS vetted engineers who are based in our engineering hubs around South Wales enabling us to get out to you quickly if you need us.

Our professional service is unrivalled and we deliver exceptional value for money solutions to commercial businesses and properties. Our customer response team is on hand to take your call 365 days a year, 24 hours a day and will ensure the appropriate engineer and team is dispatched to you the moment you need it.

Our technical support centre is available to resolve any questions our team who are out working on a job may have and this enables us to fix and repair boiler systems and pipework quickly and safely to ensure there is no or minimal impact to your business.

Total Boiler Services Commercial Boiler Engineers Qualifications & Experience

Oil BoilerAll our Gas Engineers are fully qualified to repair, service, maintain and install new boiler systems and their practical experience make it possible for us to deal with all types of plumbing, heating, boiler, oil or gas-related problems.

We are a customer-focused company and our customer ethos means that each, and every team member at Total Boiler Services is focused on delivering the best service every time. Our oil and gas engineers will only do a job if it needs doing and they complete all work to the highest of standards. All our engineers have excellent communication skills and the ability to explain any issues, repairs needed and the progress of any work being carried out so you always know what is happening.

The core values for Total Boiler Services are trust and honesty, they run throughout our business and are reflected in everything we do, from your initial call to us, our regular contract review meetings and the services our engineers and team provide. We deliver a high-quality service every time and our team are fully empowered and have a desire to do this every time.

Our commercial boiler installation services include the following:

  • Gas, oil and L.P.G boiler replacements
  • New boiler room design and installation
  • Biomass boiler installation
  • Domestic Hot water boilers
  • Plate heat exchangers
  • Electrode boilers
  • System upgrades
  • Flue system installation
  • High-efficiency boiler plant installations

We provide gas and oil boiler installation services to a wide range of customers in a variety of business sectors throughout the UK. We provide 24/7, 365 days, emergency services, maintenance and serving contracts throughout Wales, the South West of England and the M4 Corridor giving you peace of mind that you, your team and property is in safe hands.

We are registered and approved by a wide number of organisations including the following:

  • Schools
  • Churches
  • Ministry of Defence
  • Offices
  • Hospitals & Care Sectors
  • Historic Buildings
  • Colleges & Universities
  • Utility Sectors

Our OFTEC Registered Engineers Provide

  • Rapid, Reputable, Responsive Professional Service
  • Dedicated engineers on call 24/7/365
  • Emergency call-outs 24hrs a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
  • Engineers routinely fix 90% of breakdowns on their initial visit
  • Design, Planned Maintenance & Emergency Callout Service
  • Expert advise on the latest technology and systems available to suit your business and needs
  • Project design
  • Supply of oil & gas systems for boiler & heating plants
  • Installation of oil & gas systems for boiler & heating plants
  • Servicing of oil & gas systems for boiler & heating plants
  • Repair of oil & gas systems for boiler & heating plants
  • Maintenance of oil & gas systems for boiler & heating plants
  • All plumbing installations, repairs & maintenance

Customised & Planned Maintenance Packages

We offer bespoke and specific planned repair and maintenance packages for commercial building operators. This includes inspection, servicing, maintenance and repair and certification contracts with access to our highly reactive emergency support teams. Our care packages make sure that your systems and appliances are fully serviced and certified giving you peace of mind together with smooth and hassle-free, dependable operation.

Our team of oil & gas engineers have all the skills needed in order to make certain your project runs smoothly, efficiently and on time without anyone having to cope with several parties or subcontractors.

If you are searching for a professional, expert, reputable and reliable company to install a new Oil Boiler in Cardiff or repair or service it anywhere in Wales or the surrounding areas that will provide you with a genuine 24/7 service, then please give us a call on 02922 407934 and we will be happy to deal with any enquire, question or emergency repair you may have.