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Is Oilheat Safe For Your Home?

Date: September 30, 2020

safety of oilheat massachusetts

Families throughout the Bay State rely on oilheat to keep their homes warm throughout the winter—and even for some of fall and spring as well. This fuel is a safe, efficient option, with many benefits.

Is it flammable?

For many people, the word “oil” causes confusion, and raises concerns about flammability. The truth is, heating oil can’t burn without being ignited by an advanced, high-tech burner. This is not the case with natural gas.

Here’s a little more information: Combustion takes place when heating oil is vaporized. Your oil burner makes this happen when the temperature surpasses 140°. If you were to drop a lit match into a container of heating oil, the flame would actually go right out.

What about carbon monoxide?

Heating oil is also a very low-risk option when it comes to concerns about carbon monoxide poisoning. In the unlikely event that an issue arises, your system will detect it and let you know.

Will my tank leak?

Oil storage tanks these days are pretty much leakproof. They’re designed with corrosion-resistant materials and get the job done for decades. This is the case whether your tank is located outside or right in your basement.

Is there any new technology that can help?

Remote fuel tank monitoring is the latest way technology is helping us make managing fuel as easy and streamlined as possible. With the help of a Wi-Fi connection, your heating oil company can stay on top of your fuel levels and when it’s time for a delivery. Another perk of tank monitoring is that your fuel company will be alerted in the unlikely event of a leak.

While this fuel is an incredibly safe option, it’s still important to keep your heating system well maintained with annual tune-ups from your full-service heating oil dealer, so you can maximize its efficiency and overall performance—not to mention your own bottom line.

Thinking about replacing your heating oil system? Learn about furnaces and boilers to see what’s best for your home.