Wood stove oil burners, often referred to as "add-on oil burners" or "oil backup systems," are supplementary heating devices that allow wood stoves to use both wood and oil for heating. This guide will provide both technical and non-technical readers with accurate and concise information on wood stove oil burners, their operation, and important technical considerations.
1. How Wood Stove Oil Burners Work
Principle: Wood stove oil burners are designed to provide a secondary heat source using oil when wood is not available or when supplemental heat is needed. They consist of an oil tank, a combustion chamber, and a control system.
Operation: When the wood stove’s temperature drops below a set threshold, the control system activates the oil burner. The oil is sprayed into the combustion chamber and ignited, providing heat until the stove reaches the desired temperature.
2. Technical Considerations
Oil Type: Wood stove oil burners typically use #1 or #2 heating oil. Ensure the burner is compatible with the type of oil available in your area.
Tank Size: The size of the oil tank determines the burner’s runtime. A larger tank allows for longer operation without refilling.
Control System: The control system regulates the burner’s operation. It should have adjustable settings for temperature thresholds and safety features like flame monitoring and shutdown in case of malfunctions.
3. Installation and Safety
Professional Installation: Installing a wood stove oil burner should be done by a qualified technician to ensure proper integration with the wood stove and compliance with safety standards.
Chimney Requirements: Wood stove oil burners produce combustion gases that must be safely vented through the stove’s chimney. Ensure the chimney is designed to handle both wood and oil combustion byproducts.
Safety Shutoffs: Oil burners should have safety shutoff mechanisms in case of issues like flame failure or overheating. Regularly test these safety features.
4. Maintenance
Regular Cleaning: Clean the combustion chamber, nozzle, and fuel lines as recommended by the manufacturer. A clean system operates more efficiently.
Replace Oil Filters: Replace oil filters to prevent clogs that can impede fuel flow.
Annual Servicing: Schedule annual servicing with a professional to inspect and maintain the oil burner, including testing safety features.
5. Efficiency and Cost Considerations
Efficiency: Wood stove oil burners can provide efficient and consistent heating. However, their efficiency depends on proper maintenance and control settings.
Cost: Consider the cost of the oil, maintenance, and installation when evaluating the economic feasibility of a wood stove oil burner. It can be a valuable backup system in regions where wood availability is seasonal or limited.
6. Environmental Impact
Emissions: Wood stove oil burners emit combustion byproducts. Ensure the system meets local emissions standards and regulations.
Carbon Footprint: Consider the carbon footprint of using oil. Using a cleaner-burning heating oil, like bioheat, can reduce environmental impact.
Conclusion
Wood stove oil burners offer a practical solution for those seeking a reliable backup heating source in combination with their wood-burning stoves. Understanding the technical aspects, installation, safety, maintenance, and cost considerations is vital for both technical and non-technical users. When properly installed and maintained, wood stove oil burners can enhance the performance and versatility of wood-burning stoves, providing consistent warmth in various conditions.