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Waste Oil Heating FAQs

Your Top Waste Oil Heating FAQs Answered!

Whether it’s your first time investing in a waste oil heating system or you have specific questions about maintenance, we’ve got answers based on over 20 years of experience in the waste oil heating industry. 

Waste Oil Heating Most Common FAQs

How Does a Waste Oil Heater Work?

An EnergyLogic waste oil heater works by turning waste oil, including fuels No2 to 90W and synthetics, into warm air to heat a space. Technically, turning waste oil into heat involves burning the oil and venting the warm air into the main space. To begin, waste oil is pumped from a storage tank through a filter, through a preheater and then into the burner where it is atomized with compressed air and ignited.

The hot oil is ignited by a high voltage transformer and electrode which creates a hot flame down the heat exchanger. At this point, the main heat is retained in the blast tube by a baffle, which only allows the necessary gases to escape through the exhaust to the outside. Once the heat exchanger is hot, air from the squirrel cage blower flows across the exchanger, putting hot air into the open room. This process is only heating the circulated room air while venting clean gases to the outside through the chimney.

Yes! EnergyLogic waste oil heaters can burn synthetic oil! Whether you have a car dealership, fleet management business, industrial farm or large barn, manufacturing or industrial warehouse, you can burn your synthetic waste oil in an EnergyLogic waste oil heater as free heat or hot water! If you burn waste synthetic oil in your waste oil heater, keep in mind that these oils have different properties than traditional crankcase oils, meaning that they may work best when mixed with other used or waste oils.

Because EnergyLogic waste oil heaters generate a hotter combustion flame, it allows oils with higher flash points (Synthetics) to burn more complete. As a result, this creates less ash, which allows longer cycles between ash removal. If you are unsure if you can burn the used oil from your shop or facility, just contact us!

Waste oil heaters are not bad for the environment as long as they are designed and manufactured in line with EPA requirements to ensure the highest safety and quality. The problem from waste oil comes when it is not disposed of properly, contaminating groundwater and harming the environment. Recycling your oil onsite is the best and safest option for the environment and your utility bills.

The Used Oil Management Association is another great resource for information on the importance of burning waste oil and how to protect the environment from oil spills or waste oil leaks.

EnergyLogic waste oil heaters are very efficient. One gallon of waste oil is equivalent to 140K BTU. To achieve the proper combustion drafts, there must be clean-burning oil, heat to ignite the fuel, and air (oxygen) to support the combustion. When optimized, a waste oil combustion system delivers the desired heat output safely and efficiently without the need for constant user attention.

EnergyLogic waste oil heaters boast impressive technology that was crafted to improve their effectiveness, including:

  • Metering fuel pump to allow for reliable, consistent fuel delivery
  • Patented flame retention head to burn hotter, delivering the highest heat output
  • Low-fuel cut off to prevent equipment problems from low fuel and needs to reprime.

For more information, visit energylogic.com or our blog: Benefits of Proper Combustion Draft in Waste Oil Furnaces.

EnergyLogic has been in the business for over 40 years and built some of the first waste oil heaters on the market, giving them unprecedented insight into the market and what works best for their customers. Over the years, EnergyLogic has introduced patented technology, transforming the way waste oil heaters work. The result is more energy-efficient, lower cost products that boast ease of maintenance, long maintenance cycles, and one of the industry’s best warranties.

Find out how much an EnergyLogic waste oil heater will save you with our ROI calculator!

If you are using a DIY waste oil heater or a heater that has not been approved by the EPA or UL compliant, it may pose fire risks. EnergyLogic heaters are not fire hazard of themselves and have technology installed to ensure that the system is safe and secure. If you would like help setting up a waste oil heater system in your facility to prevent problems and get the most from your heater, our team is ready to help.

There are also basic waste oil management procedures your business should be following to ensure you are storing and using waste oil properly.

Yes, waste oil heaters can be very clean when properly maintained and operated. EnergyLogic waste oil heaters are designed to burn used oil efficiently, converting it into clean, usable heat with minimal residue. EL waste oil heaters are engineered to minimize soot and emissions, ensuring that they operate in an environmentally friendly manner. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the combustion chamber and ensuring proper ventilation, is essential to keep your EnergyLogic waste oil heater running cleanly and efficiently. When used correctly, you can change 2,000 gallons of waste oil into 5 gallons of carbon ash that can be disposed with your normal waste, all while producing over 280 Billion BTU’s from the 2,000 gals of oil.

A waste oil heater will run out of oil if your facility fails to produce waste oil or if you do not purchase a waste oil storage tank. A gallon of waste oil produces 140,000 BTU’s of heat. So if you are heating about 3,500 sq ft with a 140H (140,000 BTU waste oil heater), the heater will burn one gallon of waste oil for every hour the heater is running. Depending on your building size, insulation,  location, and severity of the winter will determine how much oil you will burn. So store your waste oil all year long to ensure you have a warm shop and happy employees.

While oil heaters, including waste oil heaters, offer many benefits such as energy efficiency and cost savings, there are some disadvantages to consider. One potential downside is the need for maintenance after 1,000 heating hours to ensure optimal performance with EnergyLogic waste oil heaters. One of the byproducts of burning waste oil is ash. Not all waste oil heaters can go as long as EnergyLogic heaters can between ash removal. Also, DIY waste oil heaters can be very dangerous and it is not advised to use them in any space, no matter how large or well ventilated. Plus insurance companies typically don’t insure non UL certified equipment.

Yes, waste oil heaters do need to be vented. Proper ventilation is crucial for EnergyLogic waste oil heaters and any other waste oil furnace to safely expel combustion gases and prevent the buildup of harmful substances like carbon monoxide. Venting ensures that the heater operates efficiently and safely, protecting both the equipment and the people in the building. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installing venting systems with your used oil heater to ensure compliance with safety standards. We have a large selection of How-to Videos that are very helpful for installing, maintaining your EnergyLogic waste oil heater.

Yes, waste oil heaters do need to be vented. Proper ventilation is crucial for EnergyLogic waste oil heaters and any other waste oil furnace to safely expel combustion gases and prevent the buildup of harmful substances like carbon monoxide. Venting ensures that the heater operates efficiently and safely, protecting both the equipment and the people in the building. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installing venting systems with your used oil heater to ensure compliance with safety standards. We have a large selection of How-to Videos that are very helpful for installing, maintaining your EnergyLogic waste oil heater.

Soot on your waste oil heater is typically a byproduct of incomplete combustion. This can occur if the waste oil heater is not burning the fuel efficiently, which might be due to improper settings, poor maintenance, or using low-quality oil. You will always have some components in the waste oil that is not combustible, which has typically remained as ash. The presence of soot can reduce the efficiency of your waste oil furnace and may indicate the need for cleaning or adjustment. If you notice soot or other residue that seems out of place, contact EnergyLogic today.

Oil heaters, including used oil heaters like those from EnergyLogic, are generally not heavy on electricity. These heaters primarily rely on burning oil to generate heat, which means they use minimal electricity compared to other types of electric heaters. EnergyLogic waste oil heaters are designed to be energy-efficient, making them an economical choice for heating large spaces. The electricity they do use is primarily for components like fans or controls, which typically consume only a small amount of power.

Using a waste oil heater offers several significant benefits, especially for businesses looking to reduce energy costs and manage waste oil effectively. EnergyLogic waste oil heaters are designed to convert used oil into free heat, which can drastically lower your heating expenses. Additionally, by using an EnergyLogic waste oil heater, you’re contributing to a cleaner environment by recycling oil that would otherwise need to be disposed of. These heaters are not only eco-friendly but also highly efficient, providing consistent heat output while reducing overall waste.

When comparing an EnergyLogic waste oil heater to other waste oil furnaces on the market, EnergyLogic stands out for its superior build quality and reliability. The fact that we have an onboard air compressor, metering pump, preheater, draft gauge, stainless tee & damper, and programmable thermostat, it makes EnergyLogic the most reliable and easiest to operate.  EnergyLogic is a trusted name in the industry, known for producing high-efficiency waste oil heaters that are easy to maintain and operate. The technology used in EnergyLogic waste oil heaters ensures maximum heat output with minimal fuel consumption, making them a cost-effective solution for businesses. In contrast, other waste oil furnaces might not offer the same level of efficiency or ease of use, making EnergyLogic the preferred choice for many.

Waste Oil Burner Setup

Most workspaces require an average fuel input of about 2.5 BTU/hr per cubic foot of conditioned space to maintain a comfortable temperature during the coldest time of year.

EnergyLogic offers different models of used-oil heaters and boilers that cover spaces from 3500 square feet up to 12000 square feet each. The models can mixed and matched to heat spaces of all shapes and sizes.

Many facilities can also benefit greatly from adding large HVLS or overhead and portable shop fans to their heating system to balance and distribute heat throughout their space while providing comfort and health benefits year-round.

There are many factors to consider when selecting the right waste oil burner for your space. Let us lend our knowledge and experience to your project. Contact us today.

Absolutely!

Many EnergyLogic used-oil furnace owners have taken the DIY approach to installation. In fact, EnergyLogic designed its complete waste oil heating system specifically for making installation and maintenance as simple as possible. We also offer a full course of How-to Videos to walk you through the process, step by step… and if at any point you decide to turn it over to an expert, our extensive dealer network is standing by.

Yes, but it’s not recommended.

EnergyLogic used-oil heaters and boilers are designed to minimize or eliminate horizon runs and right angles.

Proper draft is critical to achieving a clean, efficient burn when recycling used-oil. When installing the chimney flue for a waste-oil heater, it is important to consider the eventual need to clean the pipe, as well as allowing any ash that enters the pipe to fall back into the furnace or trap for regular removal.

Offset kits of up to 30 degrees are available to align the furnace outlet with a roof penetration, or if absolutely necessary, through the sidewall of the building envelope. Elbows and extra fittings should be minimized, horizontal sections should be avoided, all portions of the flue should be accessible to a sweep, and flue should never be shared with any other equipment (even another waste-oil furnace). Watch our How-to Videos for more installation and maintenance tips & tricks.

EnergyLogic forced-air heaters are designed to be vented directly (without ducting) into the conditioned space for best results.

Units have been successfully ducted to distribute heat farther from the unit or to heat an adjacent space, but care must be taken to maintain appropriate static pressure on the blower and avoid draft issues caused by joining rooms of different airflow dynamics. If you wish to duct an EnergyLogic used-oil heater, consult both the manual and an HVAC specialist.

Where heat distribution is the main concern, an HVLS fan is a wonderful solution that works quite well with our heaters and boilers, and can extend their coverage area. Large, commercial-industrial HVLS fans can fully replace HVAC-system ductwork in large spaces, for both heating and cooling. HVLS fans have the added benefit of improving indoor air quality and reducing condensation and sweaty slab syndrome. Cost savings from adding HVLS fans can quickly recoup the investment while comfort and health benefits continue for many years after.

Not with EnergyLogic! An on-board air compressor comes standard, so your waste-oil burner gets clean, consistent atomizing air, allowing you to let the heater keep your shop from freezing overnight while safely shutting down your shop-air compressor. Find out more about the benefits of an onboard air compressor.

Purchasing a Waste Oil Heater

We’ll make sure you get the best deal on the system that’s right for you. We tailor each order to the customer!

EnergyLogic has a knowledgeable and growing network of dealers and technicians throughout the United States and in select international locations. EnergyLogic products are also available by special order at most major US auto-parts stores.

With pre-packaged solutions like the fuel-delivery kit and the all-in-one Complete System, EnergyLogic works to ensure a simple, universal approach to waste-oil heating. Still, each oil-recycling setup is a unique opportunity to ensure that you get the most value for your investment.

Rather than post prices for a product that may not be optimized for you or your local guidelines, we make sure that you get help from an experienced dealer representative to make your solution just right.

Contact us and we’ll connect you with the expert in your area.

Each gallon of recycled waste oil saves you $1-$7.

By offsetting or eliminating heating and waste-oil disposal costs,  an EnergyLogic used-oil recycling system can save you thousands of dollars per year (or even per month, depending on your facility) and will generally pay for itself within the first few years of operation. With our financing options, you can start saving immediately without paying out-of-pocket.

Take a look at our Estimated Return on Investment Calculator to help you get an idea of just how much your waste oil could be worth when you start using a waste oil burner.

EnergyLogic stands by our products and we’re committed to offering the highest quality. That’s why we back up our manufacturer’s warranty with a money-back guarantee!* We’ll even throw in an extra year of warranty for registering your product with us so we can offer even better support.

(* terms and conditions apply)

Heater and Boiler Maintenance

EnergyLogic has an extensive Dealer Network of qualified technicians that can service your equipment. We also offer step-by-step How-to Videos to make regular maintenance easy to DIY, if you’d prefer.

Contact us and we’ll connect you with the expert in your area.

EnergyLogic burners don’t.

Waste-oil heaters have come a long way since the DIY drip drums and fire boxes of past decades, though some manufacturers still rely on external atomizing air and oil-pressure regulators to achieve a proper, clean combustion burn. These approaches can introduce problematic moisture, dust, and fuel-delivery inconsistency into your system, requiring adjustments as air usage, temperature, and fuel types vary.

EnergyLogic makes used-oil recycling simple and customizable, so that more people can enjoy heat from responsibly converting  waste-oil into clean energy, without having to become a heater technician in the process.

EnergyLogic’s Steady-Flo Metering Pump and On-board Air Compressor provide dedicated sources of consistent fuel delivery and atomization while automatically compensating for changes in fuel density and viscosity, so you can recycle more types of oil and mess with it less.

Waste-oil heaters need annual maintenance to prepare for heating season and ash removal at regular intervals. EenrgyLogic products make this maintenance as easy as possible, allowing the most time between services.

EnergyLogic makes recycling waste oil into clean energy easy. Still, some maintenance routines are necessary to keep your system running at peak efficiency. Be sure to avoid collecting contaminates in your used-oil tank and periodically drain any water and remove any sludge that may build up. While EnergyLogic’s advanced combustion technology creates an ultra-hot flame for an exceptionally clean burn, recycled fuel oils contain some non-combustible components which are left behind in the combustion chamber as ash and need to be removed regularly. Your used-oil heater or boiler should be serviced every 500-1000 hours of operation to remove ash, change filters, and drain water or remove other contaminants from the fuel tank.

EnergyLogic makes easy service a core principle of our design, from how it’s built to how we support service. Take a look at our How-to Videos for helpful guides about the service process, or contact us to inquire about field-service visits and turn-key service agreements with our expert Dealer Network.

Burning Waste Oil

EnergyLogic used-oil burners are UL tested and rated for:

  • Used crankcase oil 5w-90w (including synthetic)
  • Used automatic transmission fluid
  • ASTM D396 No. 2 fuel oil (including Diesel).

Substances that should NEVER be introduced to the fuel supply of an EnergyLogic used-oil heater or boiler include, but are not limited to:

  • Gasoline
  • Hazardous Waste
  • Anti-Freeze
  • Carburetor Cleaner
  • Paint Thinner
  • Any Chlorinated Material
  • Parts Washer Solvents
  • Oil Additives
  • Animal Fats

If you have a question about a potential fuel that you would like to recycle, contact us and we’ll work with you to find a solution.

Depending on the model, EnergyLogic heaters and boilers burn 1-3.5 gallons per hour of running time and can recycle dozens to thousands of gallons per year… and every drop removes waste from the environment while lowering the demand for other heating fuels.

Waste-oil contains a tremendous amount of valuable energy, and EnergyLogic has spent over three decades figuring out how to get the most from it.

EnergyLogic’s advanced used-oil burner platform can convert ~140,000 BTU of clean energy from each gallon of fuel per hour of continuous run time. Of course, different facilities require different amounts of heat and fuel consumption will vary, as the heater will not need to run continuously to heat the space.

EnergyLogic develops systems for facilities of all shapes and sizes. Contact us today!

Many waste-oil burners require external shop air or charge extra for an optional on-board air compressor. EnergyLogic products come with an integrated on-board air compressor, standard.

Some waste oil can have a strong smell, depending on its source, and some waste-oil heaters and boilers do not manage fuel delivery and combustion exhaust well.

A modern used-oil heater or boiler, like EnergyLogic’s, includes systems and recommendations for managing these materials so that fumes or smells are not released into the occupied space around the furnace.

To cut down on smells and fumes, ensure that the used-oil storage tank is properly vented to the exterior of the structure and the furnace has an appropriate chimney flue installed with sufficient draft. Check out EnergyLogic’s How-to Videos for recommendations and contact us to get in touch with a factory-trained installation expert.

EnergyLogic’s used-oil combustion process combines the best technologies to create extremely high temperatures in the core of its blast flame.

EnergyLogic used-oil burners apply decades of experience and expertise to dial in combustion conditions and increase core temperatures to levels capable of burning the most challenging fuels and synthetic used-oils while improving containment and exhaust emissions. Standard options like the large preheater, Steady-Flo Metering PumpOn-board Air Compressor, and patented flame-retention head create a dynamic system that maintains clean energy conversion without the need for adjustments, making sure that you get the most value and environmental benefit from the broadest range of fuel types, with ease.

Inefficient combustion can leave unburned fuel and other impurities unconverted in the stoichiometric chemical process, giving you less heat and more smoke & ash to clean up.

The advanced combustion technology used in an EnergyLogic multi-fuel burner achieves flame temperatures hot enough to consume impurities in the widest range of new and recycled fuel oils (including synthetic oils), creating a clean burn, minimizing ash deposits, prolonging efficiency between maintenance, and lengthening maintenance cycles. This is just another example of how EnergyLogic’s heaters and boilers are designed and built to be the easiest to own and operate.

EnergyLogic Used-oil heaters put out air that is as much as 120 °F hotter than the air taken in… that’s twice the increase of most waste-oil heaters.

An ultra-hot flame and stainless-steel heat exchanger let EnergyLogic’s used-oil heaters focus on efficient, clean energy conversion to turn what would be potentially-hazardous waste oil (when spilled or disposed of improperly) into a free green fuel. The burner’s optimized clean burn and heat-tolerant combustion-chamber material allow EnergyLogic furnaces to maximize heat transfer through the forced-air handler, reducing air speed and CFM (which can create a chilling breeze when too high) and increasing ambient air temperature by 100 °F – 120 °F (as much as two-times the temperature rise achieved by the competition).

Yes, but EnergyLogic’s high stack temperature is actually a sign you’re losing less energy.

It’s true that some heat is lost through the chimney, and 100% efficiency is not possible with combustion. Air must flow through and exhaust must be removed. EnergyLogic draws on advanced engineering and decades of experience burning used-oil to optimize waste-oil combustion by slowing it down, moving less air through but at higher temperatures, and keeping more heat inside the combustion zone. This minimizes make-up air and maximizes efficiency. EnergyLogic multi-fuel units operate at 75%-80% efficiency, even on 90W and heavy weight synthetic oils, and have an intentionally-high stack temperature to ensure that whole system can easily break down and evacuate impurities, burn high-flashpoint fuels, and deliver the greatest amount of heat (and value) to your workspace.

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