Kerosene heaters.
Oil is a liquid fuel, which must be changed to a vapour or gas before it will burn. The more readily a liquid fuel changes to a gas, the more easily it will burn. At room temperature, kerosene is continually evaporating so the burners used for kerosene need to be less complicated than those needed to burn the heavier heating oils. The high combust ability of kerosene also means heaters using this fuel must be chosen with care to include the best possible safety devices. These are found in most modern kerosene heaters.

Oil heaters.
It is particularly important that oil heating is constructed and -installed expertly. Remember that installation will account for probably a third of the total cost of an oil heater as you will also need a storage tank and usually, a flue. The fuel storage tank must be located so it conforms to oil company requirements for filling and distance from the road. Depending on oil company specifications, the tank can be located some distance from the house. However, it should be above the level of the heater for gravity feeding, or a pump will be needed.

Location.
A built-in heater can be located in an existing fireplace, in an island bench, in a wall or cupboard or against an internal or external wall. If you wish to conceal the flue, wall cladding can be used and taken right up to the ceiling.

An oil heater that is properly maintained and serviced should give little cause for concern.

Before you call the serviceman, always check:

• That a fuse hasn't blown.
• That there is oil in the fuel tank.
• That the system is switched to on.
• That the burner nozzle is clean, free of blockages and securely in position. (Only use a nozzle wrench or box wrench when removing as other tools may damage nozzle.)
• That oil valves at tank and burner are permitting oil to flow to the system.

If problems arise and you have checked all these steps, call a serviceman, preferably one recommended by the manufacturer of your particular system.