How Clean Is Heating Oil?

As of July 1, 2018, all of the heating oil in Massachusetts has switched over to an ultra-low-sulfur grade of fuel. What does that mean for you?

Sulfur is the component of heating oil that leads to most of the maintenance issues and system problems that arise during the life of an oil-heating system. With the sulfur content now being virtually eliminated from heating oil in the Bay State, oil-heating systems will operate more effectively. As a result, oil-heat consumers will see their heating costs reduced, because their systems will run longer without major issues.

This is a win for the industry and for all homeowners who use clean-burning heating oil.

Oil heat efficiency: a good thing that keeps getting better

The drastic reduction in sulfur content has paved the way for the next generation of compact, super-efficient boilers and furnaces. That means a good thing will get even better.

Today’s oil heating systems are already compact, smart and super-efficient and can save you, on average, 20% or more on your annual heating costs after you upgrade. What’s more, there are many different new equipment options to fit your budget.

Consider these points about oil heat efficiency

New oil-heat systems have efficiency ratings as high as 95%; this provides oil-heated homes with more warmth for less fuel.

Fuel savings have reached as high as 48% when an outdated boiler has been replaced with a new, high-efficiency oil boiler.

Many new oil boilers use energy-saving controls that greatly reduce fuel usage during mildly cold weather and provide a more even heat with fewer temperature swings.

High-efficiency oil furnaces feature variable-speed motors that use about 80% less electricity than older motors and provide more consistent airflow and temperatures.

The National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) continues to research and develop oil heating equipment that’s more efficient than before. And that’s good news for anyone who likes relying on oil heat to stay comfortable and safe in their home!
Contact your warm friends at Scott Williams if you have any questions about our clean-burning heating oil.