1. What is an Oil Boiler Size Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the required size of an oil boiler in kilowatts (kW) based on your home's heat loss and the boiler's efficiency.

Purpose: It helps homeowners and heating professionals determine the appropriately sized oil boiler for efficient heating.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Size} \) — Required boiler size (kW)
• \( \text{Heat Loss} \) — Your home's heat loss (BTU/h)
• \( \text{Efficiency} \) — Boiler efficiency percentage (%)

Explanation: The formula converts heat loss to the required boiler output, accounting for the boiler's efficiency.

3. Importance of Proper Boiler Sizing

Details: Correct boiler sizing ensures efficient operation, reduces fuel costs, prevents short cycling, and extends equipment life.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your home's heat loss in BTU/hour and the boiler's efficiency percentage (default 85%). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I determine my home's heat loss?
A: A professional heat loss calculation is most accurate. Alternatively, estimate using 50 BTU/h per sq ft for older homes or 30 BTU/h per sq ft for well-insulated homes.

Q2: What's a typical efficiency for oil boilers?
A: Modern condensing oil boilers are 85-95% efficient, while older models may be 70-80% efficient.

Q3: Why not just get the largest boiler available?
A: Oversized boilers operate less efficiently, wear out faster, and cost more to run due to frequent on/off cycling.

Q4: Should I round up the calculated size?
A: It's common to round up to the nearest standard boiler size, but avoid significantly oversizing.

Q5: Does this account for domestic hot water needs?
A: No, this calculates space heating requirements only. Add 3-5 kW if the boiler will also provide hot water.