Oil Boilers discussed by BPS Facilities

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. Find out everything you need to know in our Oil Boiler FAQ’s.

What are regular Oil Boilers?

They are central heating systems which supply heat and hot water to a domestic or commercial property or business. The size and capacity of an oil fuelled boiler depend on the type and size of the property it is being installed into. Newer boilers are always more efficient fuel boilers and can save you money on your fuel costs if they have been designed and installed by a professional boiler company.

BPS are experts in all types of oil boiler installation and have the experience in all types of oil boiler brands, makes and models, offering a wide range of boiler servicing, installation and repairs for all types of commercial properties and businesses.

How do Oil Boilers work?

An oil fuelled boiler system uses the oil, otherwise known as the fuel to create a hot water supply which runs through the properties pipework and radiators to create warmth, much like a gas boiler system would. The difference between an oil and gas boiler is normally only the fuel used to power it, both produce flue gases from the fuel that they burn. An oil fuelled boiler is connected to an oil tank, whereby a gas boiler is connected to a gas supply. Oil fulled boilers reduce the need and reliance on fossil fuels as they are designed to be used with fuel oil combined with bio-oil which results in them being partially run on renewables or renewable energy.

What is a heat exchanger?

Heat exchangers are found in boilers and they heat the water in your boiler which is then pumped through your radiators to warm your property. An oil type boiler has a stainless steel heat exchanger much like a fossil-fuelled boiler. To supply the hot water, the mains cold water passes over a heat pump exchanger which transfers the heat and supplies the hot water to the taps in the property. The cold water is sourced directly from the mains to the taps.

Fuel and Renewable Supply Background

What is a fossil fuel?

Fossil fuels including; oil, coal and natural gas have fueled our homes, businesses and transport since the industrial revolution. They have changed the way we live and work and have supported huge economic growth and technological evolution over the years, however, it’s only now that we know that burning this type of fuel has had and is having an impact on the environment through the vast amounts of carbon gases that are created and transported into the atmosphere, otherwise known as carbon emissions. Carbon emissions are resulting in our climates changing which is and will lead to droughts, flooding and rising sea levels, damaging our natural environment and the species that live within in.

Non-renewable fuel types take millions of years to form, they do not replenish and we are quickly getting to the point where we will run out, in addition to the negative impact they are having on the environment. This is the reason that more and more people are changing to renewable energy sources to power and heat homes and businesses.

What is a renewable energy source?

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 and includes; solar, wind, geothermal or hydroelectric action power.

What are the different types of renewable energy sources?

  • Air
  • Wind
  • Solar
  • Biomass
  • Hydro
  • Tidal

Oil Boilers

Oil BoilerHow will I know if I need a new oil boiler?

Commercial oil-fuelled boilers are now robust,  durable and technologically advanced and will last for 15 plus years as long as they are well looked after, serviced regularly and maintained by a boiler professional like BPS. There does come a time when any boiler will need replacing as it will no longer be an effective system for your commercial property or business and at this point, it will start costing you more than it should do to run. There are lots of signs that will tell you that your boiler needs a service, repair or complete replacement and these include:

  • The boiler is regularly switching off and it needs to be manually restarted
  • Your property is not feeling warm when the heating is on
  • The property is feeling too hot and not as per the thermostat temperature setting
  • The water temperature isn’t hot enough
  • There is no hot water at all
  • Noises, creaking, humming, buzzing, groaning can all be a sign that it needs repairing or replacing
  • Your energy bills are increasing
  • The boiler leaks and this often lead to floods and excessive property damage
  • The hot water cylinder is old, leaking and not keeping your hot water hot
  • Frequent breakdowns
  • Your boiler specialist is unable to source replacement parts for any repairs
  • It isn’t able to support smart technology
  • It breaks down and 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. An expert company like BPS Facilities will come out to your business or commercial property and assess your property and business needs to advise you on the types of boiler that are best for you and your business in the short and long term.

Do you have to have an Oil Condensing Boiler?

Yes, as of April 1st 2007, all oil heating boilers legally have to be condensing in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, unless your installer requests a formal exemption from OFTEC.

What is a Condensing Boiler?

It is a water heater which is fueled by gas or oil which utilises any heat that would have been wasted in non-condensing boiler systems. The boiler range achieves high efficiency (typically greater than 90% on the higher heating value) by condensing water vapour in the exhaust gases and recovering its latent heat of vaporisation, which would have otherwise have been wasted. The condensed vapour leaves the system in a liquid form via a drain. The latent heat from the exhaust gases is extracted and then re-used by the boiler system, making them significantly more efficient than older, non-condensing models.

What is a Combination Boiler?

A combination boiler also known as a ‘combi’ boiler provides both hot water and heat in a single boiler system. Combination boilers heat water directly from the mains when a tap is turned on and this means you don’t need space for a hot water cylinder or a hot water storage tank in the roof space. It provides hot water on demand without you having to wait for hot water to be heated by the boiler system. If you don’t use a huge amount of hot water in your business but you still have some hot water demand then often combi oil boilers are a good option for you, as well as if you don’t have the space for a water storage tank. Combi’s range in boiler size so there are different options available for you depending on your space.

What is an external Oil Boiler?

The only difference between an internal and external oil fired burner is whether they are housed inside or outside of your property, which one you have will depend on the size boiler and how much room you have inside and outside for it to be installed. BPS will come out to your property and fully assess your requirements and will advise you on the best oil solution for your needs for small, medium and larger properties and we always provide you with competitive fixed boiler installation costs.

How much does an oil boiler cost to install?

The cost of an oil fuelled boiler depends on the size of the boiler you need. If pipework, flues or the hot of the cold water tank will need to be relocated or replaced, radiators moved or new ones fitted then it will cost more. The complexity of the installation will have an influence on the cost, as an example, if your boiler is replaced in the same location it will be cheaper than installing a boiler in a new location. BPS Facilities will come out to your property and assess yours and your properties needs and advise you on the best oil boiler system for you. Our OFTEC registered engineers have the most up to date knowledge and experience in the industry and systems and technology available to you. We will give you a competitive quote as well as a schedule or work so you will know what to expect before the installation process starts and we will work alongside you to make sure there is minimal impact to your property or business. We will provide you with the relevant building regulation certification for your new boiler system and will give you full training to ensure you understand how to operate it and make the most from it. Oil sourced boilers vary in their heating outputs and efficiency depending on their size, make, model as well as the price of oil at the time.

Boiler sizing relates to its output ratings and this is the power the boiler is able to deliver to your heating system. The larger your property, the larger boiler output ratings you will need to ensure it can supply enough heat and hot water. If you have a boiler with lower than needed output ratings your boiler system won’t last as long as will have to work a lot harder and this will cost you more in the long run. BPS will plan and design a boiler system for your property and needs and will ensure all of these aspects are considered.

Do you need space for a storage tank?

If you have an oil fuelled boiler installed in your property then you will need to have outside space above or below ground for an oil storage tank. The type of oil you use will depend on your boiler and there is a range of options to choose from. There are companies who will deliver the different types of oil to your premises when you need it. Some oil suppliers will pay for your oil tank and if they do it means you are contracted to them and to their supply of oil for a specified period.

What are combi boilers?

A combi boiler is a type of boiler range which provides heat and hot water as one unit. You can have oil combi boilers and these are the most common options as long as they are condensing.

How is an Oil Boilers rated?

Oil boilers are now rated using the ErP 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 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.

Can an Oil Boiler be power flushed?

Yes, an oil boiler can and should be power flushed regularly to keep it working effectively and efficiently. Power flushing cleans your system internally which improves your heating and hot water efficiencies which can significantly decrease your energy bills. Some heating systems will have poor circulation resulting in lukewarm radiators, lack of hot water, increased noise and sludge build up over time and ‘power flushing’ will rectify this. The sludge and residue build-up is removed by inline magnetic filtration, making your boiler system work more efficiently. When a system is professionally power flushed it is flushed in different directions dislodging engrained sludge and debris that builds up over time. Special chemicals are used to ensure the sludge and debris breaks down inside the system before it’s removed. Powerflushing your boiler system regularly will extend the life of your boiler, increase its efficiency whilst decreasing your energy costs.

How often should an Oil Boiler be replaced?

An oil-fired boiler should last anything from 10 years plus if it is well maintained and serviced by an expert regularly. You may not want to replace your boiler due to the cost, however, an inefficient running boiler will cost you more in energy in the long run so you should always think of it as a cost over a long period of time rather than a one-off cost. Frequent breakdowns and repairs and often its safety can also be an issue. Increasing energy costs and improvements in technology mean that boiler efficiency is an important consideration when you are running a business or if you own a commercial property.

BPS OFTEC registered engineers will come out to your property and complete a full site assessment. They will advise you on the type of system you should consider and the benefits of each one as well as the technical capabilities of each. We will provide you with a full written no-obligation quote, work schedule and will work alongside you to ensure there is minimal impact to your business whilst we are on site.

When we have installed your new oil boiler we will leave you property clean and clear of any mess and give you full training and support to ensure you get the most from it and the best efficiency. We also offer a repair, maintenance and service option to ensure it remains working effectively and safely and doesn’t need replacing before it needs to.

Who is legally able to install, repair and service an Oil Boiler?

Only an OFTEC registered engineer should install, repair or service an oil boiler system.

What is OFTEC?

The OFTEC Association (Oil Firing Technical Association) is a trade organisation that recognises competence for people who work with oil appliances which include boilers and they ensure all registered engineers have the qualifications and experience to safely and effectively, install, repair or service an oil boiler. There are around 8,000 technicians who are registered with the OFTEC competent person scheme.

Before an engineer can become OFTEC registered they have to complete an approved training course and pass an assessment. They are then reassessed by OFTEC regularly 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.

What are the benefits of using an OFTEC registered installer?

In summary, OFTEC registered installers can self-certify that their work meets Building Regulations and can 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 use an OFTEC registered installer?

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

What are the benefits of using an OFTEC registered installer?

  • 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
  • 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
  • An OFTEC registered engineer 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
  • An OFTEC registered engineers 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 annually?

Newer style boilers are extremely efficient; however, if you don’t get them serviced annually, they will 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 boiler service will:

  • Keep it running efficiently, reducing or maintaining your energy bills
  • Give you heat and hot water as you need it
  • 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?

Always ask for recommendations from other local businesses. Do your research and look for businesses that offer OFTEC registered installation, repair, maintenance and emergency call-out services as well as looking for customer reviews, good and bad.

  • 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 who has sound knowledge of current oil tank regulations
  • A company that has a good website typically shows they are professional and have the resources to always ensure your electrics are safe and well maintained

About BPS Facilities

BPS is a family-owned facilities company in South Wales and we work across Wales and throughout the M4 Corridor. Our teams within our business include:

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

We offer oil, gas, mechanical and electrical engineering solutions, maintaining central heating, electrical, air conditioning, catering and refrigeration systems and our team wear our BPS uniform and are DBS vetted engineers who are based in our engineering hubs around South Wales.

Our professional service is unrivalled and we deliver exceptional value for money solutions to commercial businesses and properties. We are available 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.

BPS Technical Support Team

Our technical support centre is always on hand to resolve any questions our team who are out working on a job might have, and this enables us to fix and repair systems and equipment quickly and safely.

BPS Commercial Boiler Engineers Qualifications & Experience

All our Gas & Heating 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 BPS is focused on delivering the best service every time. Our gas engineers will only do a job if it needs doing and they complete all work to the highest of standards. All our Gas Engineers have excellent communication skills and the ability to explain any issues, repairs needed and the progress of any work being carried out.

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
  • Stainless steel flue system installation
  • High-efficiency boiler plant installations

BPS Facilities Ltd provides all boiler type 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.

Our BPS OFTEC Registered Engineers Offer

  • 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 in a range of brands and oil boiler prices
  • Project design
  • Supply
  • Installation
  • Servicing
  • Repair
  • Maintenance

Our Commercial Building Services and Systems

  • Oil & Gas services, boiler & heating plants in a wide product range with many boiler manufacturers
  • Electrical services
  • Air Conditioning and climate control
  • Catering, kitchen equipment and refrigeration
  • Laundry & textile care
  • Plumbing
  • Building management systems
  • Fire alarms and access control

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, joiners, electricians, engineers and construction 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 reputable and reliable company to install a new Oil Boiler or repair or service anywhere in Wales or the surrounding areas that can provide you with a genuine 24/7 service, then please give us a call on 029 2048 4114 and we will be happy to deal with any enquire, question or emergency repair you may have. We will arrange for one of our team to visit your property and provide you with competitive boiler quotes to suit your budget and needs.