No doubt you’ve been hearing about the biofuel revolution. As an alternative to conventional petroleum oil for home heating, vegetable-based oils – particularly biodiesel – offers a number of advantages, not the least of which is a clean-burning product that greatly reduces the amount of pollutant soot. This alone makes it the preferred choice for those wishing to reduce their carbon footprint on the world.
Not only is biodiesel a better choice for protecting the environment, it is actually less expensive than what most providers charge for natural gas or conventional petroleum products. So long as the home or commercial structure has an acceptable boiler and storage tank, the costs of operating this type of heating system can be significantly lower than what most folks pay for gas or petroleum heat. Fuel tank maintenance is relatively simple, and conversion of an existing system is less extensive than you may think.Major Advantages Of Biodiesel Heating Systems
A significant net emissions decrease is enjoyed when this type of heating system is employed. The most common molecular emissions from the burning of petroleum oils are sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide. The are environmentally damaging. Sulfur in the atmosphere settles back down to the ground when it rains, and carbon monoxide is highly toxic. Carbon dioxide is another byproduct of fossil fuels, and when levels in the atmosphere rise, so does the planet’s atmospheric temperature.
The use of biodiesel also gives suppliers leverage over competing fuel providers and can result in further price negotiations among fuel companies. In the end, prices begin to tumble even further. Because the fuel itself is made from plants, the possibility for fuel production near to where you live is high, meaning transportation charges are nominal.
Installing A Biodiesel System
A heated boiling tank and preheater are required for this type of heating system to function. Smaller boiler systems similar to commercial-use models are now available. If your home or business is heated with natural gas, conversion to an insulated tank by a professional such as Fuel Tank will be necessary. Special filters are placed in the tank and must be cleaned periodically.
Biodiesel has solvent properties that will actually loosen sediments that have accumulated in the storage tank. However, complete draining and cleaning of the tank itself is not necessary prior to loading with the new type fuel. Fuel tank maintenance is basically the same as when servicing a tank filled with petroleum oil. Depending on the amount of fuel used and the size of the boiler, the storage tank itself may have to be modified with its own heating unit. Biodiesel does not burn properly unless the stored fuel is kept above room temperature.
A Worthwhile Investment
Like so many other revolutionary technologies, startup costs can be intimidating. However, the actual cost of conversion depends on the system already in place and whether the biofuel can be stored without additional installation of a new tank. Over time, you save money because the price of biofuel will continue to fall. The environment will thank you and so will your wallet.
