Information about oil heating.

Eldel

Hi,

I was looking at a house to rent today that has oil heating. I don't know what to expect regarding operating efficiency, cost, upkeep etc. I'm currently a gas user. I am getting negative feedback from my family who seem to think it costs a fortune, breaks down, is dirty and useless in a badly insulated house. Would I be making the wrong decision to take this house?

The house is a 3 bed gate lodge, pretty big. It's cold at the moment because it's been vacant for so long so I can't judge what it's going to be like. The landlady assures me that it's in good order.

Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you in advance.

planetX

depends on so many things.... all I can tell you is that I'm renting a 3 bed bungalow, v v badly insulated, and I spent about 1500 on oil in the last year. That was using it at the very bare minimum, we were very very cold last winter - but i'm at home in the afternoons, so it would be less if you were out all day.
I've never had gas heating so I can't compare. Hope that gives you some idea of the possible cost. Check that there is a timer switch, that's one thing I don't have and really could do with.

Eldel

Thanks planetX. That's a start, I need to know the pitfalls. I reckon I should definitely check to see if there's a timer, if it needs to be serviced and to insulate the house to the rafters.
BTW, huge difference with gas prices - we paid, even with bad weather approx €1000 last yr.