How Long Do Oil-Filled Heaters Last (And Why)?

Exact Answer: 16 to 20 years

Oil-filled heaters are convectional heaters that are commonly used in homes. They are filled with oil but are heated by electricity. They don’t burn any oil either, but the oil is used as a heat reservoir or a buffer rather than as fuel.

Oil-filled heaters not only provide numerous advantages but also outlive most other types of heaters. This is mainly due to their design and heating mode. As a result, if you’re searching for a cost-effective solution to heat your home, they’re a great choice.

How Long Do Oil-Filled Heaters Last?

The life expectancy of an oil-filled heater is related to the heating element’s internal temperature. If the heater’s coil is kept at higher temperatures for an extended period, it will deteriorate faster. They would only endure about 10-15 years this way.

And for best results, keep them at temperatures between 750 and 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. These heaters can easily survive up to 16-20 years if given some time to rest when not in use. Before using your oil heater, always read the user handbook. You will be able to learn how to operate it effectively as a result of this. Also, before you start using it, double-check that everything is set up correctly.

Oil-filled room heaters work by using electricity to heat the oil, which is subsequently transferred to metal walls by convection. Once the metal walls have heated up, they use conduction heating to disperse the heat throughout the room.

The life expectancy of an oil-filled heater is determined by several factors:

• The amount of time you use the heater determines how long it will last. The equipment would wear out faster if it was used continuously without a break.
• Position of Oil-filled heaters aren’t just for heating indoors. It’s not commonplace to use them to heat the deck or patio. As a result, expect a shorter run time from the appliance if you want to use it to warm up outdoor regions. Placing them indoors, on the other hand, significantly enhances their longevity.
• It’s critical to understand what kind of fuel it runs on. If the gasoline takes longer to heat up and cools down rapidly, the heater will stay on for longer to keep your surroundings toasty. Oil, on the other hand, is regarded as the greatest fuel source for such heaters because it heats up quickly and retains heat for a long time.
• Using the best oil to lubricate the engine guarantees that oil-filled heaters run longer. If the heater brand you’ve chosen is known for poor lubrication, stay away from it because it’ll be a waste of money.

Why Do Oil-Filled Heaters Last For So Long?

External factors such as mechanical damage, corrosion, and the heater’s on-off cycle also affect the heater’s lifespan. The heater will deteriorate faster if it is regularly mishandled or if it is frequently turned on and off without being given a chance to cool down.

Overnight use of oil heaters is safe. Oil heaters, unlike conventional heaters, include additional security measures such as built-in timers and tip-over safety. They have no moving components, so there is no noise from the appliance, and the internal pressure of the oil remains constant due to the high boiling point of the oil.

Even though oil heaters are maintenance-free, they still require attention to avoid breakdowns. Even so, they are prone to breakdowns from time to time. Here are some of the most frequent oil heater issues and how to fix them:

• If you hear a knocking noise, it could be caused by air in the lines; see your manual or hire a professional.
• If the heater abruptly turns off, the thermostat may not be properly adjusted, so check the thermostat settings, refer to your handbook, and reset.
• If the heater does not start, there may be a problem with the gas valve, and you can replace or repair it as needed.
• Fix or replace worn-out ducts if the heater won’t start because of faulty ducting.

Conclusion

Oil-filled heaters have a solid track record when it comes to efficiency when powered by electricity. They have several fascinating features that you won’t find in conventional heaters, like thermostats, timers, and safety features. Oil-filled heaters are easy to transport thanks to their caster wheels.

To guarantee an even distribution of heat, the heater should be placed in the center of the room. Close the door as well to keep the heat in the room. Also, make sure the heater is set up on a level, flat surface to avoid it tipping over and catching fire.

References

1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0894177712002063
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S036054421831380X