Winters are near, and hence, the demand for heaters is at its peak. When it comes to the heater, it’s either electric or oil-filled.
Nowadays, oil heaters are in demand; now the question arises: Are oil heaters so well? Isn’t there any disadvantage of using them?
Absolutely, there are disadvantages to using an oil heater; that’s the main focus of this article. Oil heaters, when compared to electric ones, have some disadvantages worth considering.
The first and foremost is energy efficiency. Oil heaters consume more energy, hence more electricity bills.
But this isn’t over yet; explore below to dive deeply into the disadvantages of oil heaters and whether or not to choose them.
Disadvantages of Oil Heaters
Performance-wise, oil heaters may match with electric ones; however, some notable disadvantages can’t be ignored. Here is a list which will enlighten you on the same:
- Energy Efficiency: As said, oil-filled heaters are less energy efficient than electric ones. They require more electricity to make the internal fan and heating element work that warms the oil. This results in higher bills and, hence, less cost-effectiveness.
- Slow heating: Oil heaters require a bit more time to heat the same room than their electric counterparts. The oil inside requires time to reach a temperature, which may frustrate you when you need quick comfort.
- Maintenance: Oil heaters need irregular maintenance. It’s really necessary to clean its fins and replace or refill the oil whenever required. Ignoring this may lead to reduced performance.
- Safety: Well, this can be avoided if used carefully. However, the hot oil inside the heater may pose a safety risk, especially if you have children in the house.
- Portability: Oil heaters are heavier and bulkier than the electric ones. Therefore, moving them from one room to another or storing them after winter might be a tedious task.
Looks too disadvantageous, right? Isn’t there any good side of it that makes it a choice to escape from the cozy winters? Yeah, there are; explore below to know the same.
Why Choose Oil Heaters?
- Heat Distribution: Oil heaters provide an even heat flow throughout the room. The hot oil imparts a gentle, steady warmth that backs into a comfortable environment.
- Energy Efficiency Overtime: While it’s true oil heaters consume more energy, they are efficient in the long run. Once the oil inside reaches the optimal temperature, it requires very little electricity to retain the same.
- No Dry Air: Oil heaters do not dry out the room, contrasting with some general heating methods. This is definitely beneficial to those who are suffering with breathing problems.
- Reliability: Oil heaters generally have a simple mechanism and a robust design with very few mechanical parts. This enhances their durability while enabling them to self-repairment.
Oil Heater vs. Electric Heater
It’s never an Oil heater vs an Electric heater; it all depends upon your needs, wants, and preferences. Let’s compare them, which will help you make an informed decision.
The first and foremost considered factor is efficiency. Electric heaters are more efficient as they convert almost all the electricity to heat. In contrast, oil heaters first warm the oil and then provide warmth.
Electric heaters rapidly get to work, i.e., warm a room, while pil heaters require a significant amount of time before heating a room. Electric heaters are compact and lightweight, making them easier to move from one place to another. This is in contrast to their counterparts, which are heavy and limit their portability.
Lastly comes the maintenance. Electric heaters require minimum to no maintenance over a period of time. Occasionally, you must clean and check for any faulty wire, if required. Oil heaters require regular maintenance, which may result in reduced performance.
Conclusion
All in all, oil-filled heaters pose some disadvantages that can’t be ignored. However, they do have some benefits, making them a choice to get warm during cold days. While compared with electric heaters, they might not sound worthy, but as said, it is more about your needs and wants than preferences.
Absolutely, it’s necessary to maintain an oil heater to ensure a safe and efficient performance. Ignoring maintenance might cause issues like clogs, leaks, and reduced heating performance. Further, this may pose safety threats like oil spills and fire.
In the comment below, share which heater you have at your house or are considering buying this winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Oil Heaters Cost-Effective when Compared to Other Heating Options?
No, oil heaters are less cost-effective when compared to their renowned rivals, electric heaters. These are simple observations: they take oil as a fuel to warm up, which may be expensive; furthermore, oil heaters generally take a longer time to heat the oil, which increases the cost.
Is It Safe to Use Oil Heaters?
It’s safe to use them unless you’re irresponsible or your day is bad. Jokes apart, they may lead to fire if placed near flammable materials or knocked over. To ensure safety, regularly maintain it to avoid leaks or malfunctioning, and further keep it away from flammable items.
Do Oil Heaters Make a Sound?
No, the reality is they are well known for quiet operation. The reason for their silent operation is they don’t have any fans or blowers that spin up, making sound. Lack of fans further means that the air in your room won’t dry out.
