Modern oil heat makes a convincing case

(NC)-The fuel used to heat your new home is a personal choice, so don't hesitate to request exactly what you want from your builder.

"In a lot of instances, new homes are automatically built with the intent of heating with natural gas and without input from the homeowner," says Dave Frittenburg, president of the Canadian Oil Heat Association (COHA) Ontario Chapter. "Homeowners should know that they have options when it comes to their heating fuel, and that oil heat is considered a premium choice for comfortable, efficient heat."

According to COHA, oil heat offers homeowners a safe, dependable, environmentally friendly and economical alternative to other home comfort options.

"With oil heat, homeowners also take advantage of a competitive market," Frittenburg continued. "You choose the supplier that best meets your needs and enjoy a quality product with personal and dependable service."

Oil heat can also save homeowners money and frustration when it comes to hot water. When compared to electric versions, oil-fired water heaters can save homeowners hundreds of dollars a year in energy costs.

"And for large families with teenagers, there will be no more running out of hot water in the morning," Frittenburg explained. "Oil-fired water heaters boast half the recovery time of electric models and are also faster than natural gas water heaters."

Oil is a modern heating choice and has evolved considerably since the 1970s. The industry has reduced burner emissions from 10 pounds to 7 ounces per 1,000 gallons burned, and reduced sulphur content. Oil is also 95 per cent cleaner than it was in 1973.

With regard to oil heat appliances, sophisticated microprocessor controls and the revolutionary flame retention head oil burner mean precise, virtually noise-free operation. Combustion venting technologies result in flexibility and savings, according to COHA, and since most oil heat appliances can be vented through the basement wall, conversions or upgrades are fast and affordable.

While some homeowners may be concerned about having an oil tank in their basement, Frittenburg says on-site storage is one of the biggest advantages of heating with oil. Significant progress has also been made to make oil storage tanks safe and secure with innovations such as double-wall fibreglass tanks.

"In addition, with no need to worry about natural gas pressure drops and pipeline breaks, electrical outages, on-site storage gives homeowners added peace-of-mind," he said.

More information is available online at www.todaysoilheat.com and at www.coha.ca

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