Oil heats radiators by igniting oil in a boiler's combustion chamber, which then heats water via a heat exchanger, and this hot water circulates through your radiators to provide warmth.
The Journey of Heat: From Oil to Radiator
Oil heating systems are designed to efficiently convert the chemical energy stored in heating oil into thermal energy to warm your home. The process involves a well-orchestrated sequence of steps that ensure heat is generated and effectively distributed to your radiators.
Understanding the Core Mechanism
The fundamental process of oil heating begins within the heart of an oil boiler. Here's how it works:
- Combustion: The journey starts when the fuel, in this case oil, is ignited in the combustion chamber. This controlled burning produces a significant amount of heat.
- Heat Exchange: Next, this intense heat is transferred to cold water. A crucial component called a heat exchanger warms up cold water, acting as a bridge to transfer thermal energy from the burning oil to the water. The source of this cold water depends on the type of heating system in place: it can come either from the mains in a combi system or from a cold water tank in a conventional system.
- Water Circulation: Once the water has been heated to the desired temperature, it's ready for distribution. The heated water can be used in your radiators, taps and showers to provide your home with heating and hot water. A pump within the system circulates this hot water through a network of pipes that lead to your radiators.
- Radiator Emission: As the hot water flows through the radiators, they emit warmth into the room through convection and radiation, effectively heating your living spaces. The now-cooler water then cycles back to the boiler to be reheated, ensuring a continuous supply of warmth.
Types of Oil Heating Systems
The way cold water is supplied and how hot water is stored can vary, leading to different types of oil heating systems:
| System Type | Cold Water Source | Hot Water Storage | Primary Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Combi System | Direct from mains supply | No separate hot water tank | Instant hot water on demand; space-saving |
| Conventional System | From a cold water tank | Separate hot water cylinder | Can supply large volumes of hot water simultaneously |
Regardless of the system type, the core principle of using the heat from burning oil to warm water via a heat exchanger remains consistent, ensuring efficient heating for your home.
