Introduction to Oil Heat

Combustion is the process of burning!
When fuel oil is burned, the chemical energy that is stored in the oil is released in another form of energy, HEAT.
 
Fuel Oil
No. 2 distillate fuel oil is a product of the refining of crude oil, which was formed underground through decomposition of marine organisms, fish and vegetation.  This organic matter eventually became liquid or gas concentrated underground in pocket or pools. 
Oil Delivery Systems
The oil delivery system includes all components required to transport oil from the storage tank to the burner.  These include pumps, pipes, valves, filters and controls.  Inspecting these components should be a part of scheduled maintenance service.

Oil Burners
The functions of an oil burner are to break fuel oil into small droplets, mix the droplets with air, and ignite the resulting spray to form a flame.
Combustion Chambers
The purpose of the combustion chamber is to reflect heat back into the flame to aid the combustion process and achieve more complete burning of oil.
Heat Exchanger
The purpose of the heat exchanger is to transfer heat from the burner flame to the water or air used to heat the home.  The heat exchanger is an integral part of the boiler or furnace.

Flue Pipes
Flue pipes convey combustion gases from the heating appliance to the chimney or vent.  Since these gases are potentially harmful to the home and its residents, these pipes must be sealed tightly to prevent leakage.
Flue pipe convey combustion gases that create the draft to assist in drawing combustion air into and through the burner in chimney systems
Draft Regulators
Many flue pipes include a barometric draft regulator.
This consists of a counterweighted swinging door which opens and closes to help maintain a constant level of draft over the fire.
Chimneys
Chimneys have been used since the earliest days of indoor heating to draw combustion gases out of the home and provide draft to help draw in  combustion air.

Heat Distribution Systems
With furnaces, warm air, propelled by fans, is distributed throughout the house through metal ducts.
Controls
The controls used to regulate  typical oilheat systems include:
Thermostat
The thermostat ‘tells’ the burner when to turn on and off to maintain the desired temperature in the house.

Aquastat
The Aquastat regulates the  temperature of boiler water
Fan Control
The Fan Control turns the fan on and off in warm air furnace systems.

Pumps and Zone Valves
Pumps and Zone Valve Controls regulate the flow of water or steam in boiler systems.
Safety Controls
Pressure relief valves, high temperature limits, low water cut off and burner primary controls protect against appliance malfunctions.