Oil-Fired Water Heater Installation, Repair and Maintenance Services in Grand Rapids and Surrounding Areas, Including Kentwood, MI
Your Low-Cost Access to Hot Water
Oil fired water heaters have the ability to produce a reliable, inexpensive supply of home hot water. Although this type of water heater may cost you more to install, its efficiency in heating water means very low operating costs over the lifespan of the unit.
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Oil fired water heaters also have high heat recovery rates, meaning they can heat large amounts of water quickly. For example, if the oil fired water heater can increase the temperature of 40 gallons of water by 100° in one hour, the unit has a 40-gallon recovery rate. Oil burning water heaters can have recovery rates as high as 120 gallons per hour.
Penning Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric is a proud carrier of a wide range of oil water heaters in Grand Rapids. With over a century in this business, we have seen how this type of water heaters have helped hundreds of customers get big savings on their energy bills.
Boiler & Hot Water Heating Controls
Regardless of design, any water heating system that stores hot water should have a pressure relief valve installed to protect the system from high pressure.
See how different oil water heaters are designed to your advantage:
- With tankless coil designs in which no water is stored in a tank,a pressure-only relief valve may be used to protect the coil and piping from excessive pressure.
- A vacuum relief valve vents the system if a vacuum occurs inside the tank.
- A backflow preventer prevents boiler water from flowing into potable water systems.
- A direct-fired water heater needs an aquastat to control operation and temperature as well as a primary control and heat detector for safe operation of the oil burner.
- The new indirect-fired units typically have a triple aquastat, which controls high and low temperatures and communicates with the oil burner via a built-in cad cell relay.
Since the water inside a tankless coil can be very hot, all systems should also have an anti-scald device known as a tempering valve or mixing valve. When necessary, it automatically mixes in an appropriate amount of cold water to lower the temperature of the water to the chosen temperature setting.
Our Grand Rapids plumbers are skilled and trained in the repair, maintenance or installation of any oil-fired water heater brands and models. We also carry several units at our office that all come with a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Professional Oil Water Heater Installation for Long-Term Performance
Proper installation plays a major role in how well an oil-fired water heater performs over time. A poorly installed system can lead to uneven heating, frequent shutdowns, higher fuel usage, and early component failure. At Penning Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, every installation follows proven procedures that focus on safety, efficiency, and long-term reliability.
Our technicians begin by evaluating your home’s layout, oil supply system, ventilation setup, and water usage needs. This allows us to recommend the right unit size and configuration. Proper placement ensures strong airflow, safe exhaust routing, and easy access for future service. Fuel line connections, electrical controls, and pressure relief devices receive careful attention during every installation.
Each system gets tested before completion to confirm proper ignition, steady temperature control, and consistent water flow. Homeowners receive clear instructions on daily operation and basic care. This detailed approach helps prevent common problems and ensures dependable hot water from day one.
Routine Maintenance That Protects Your Oil Water Heater Investment
Oil-fired water heaters work hard year-round, especially in homes with high water demand. Without regular maintenance, soot buildup, fuel residue, and worn components slowly reduce performance. Routine service helps protect your system and keeps it running efficiently.
Penning Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric provides complete maintenance programs designed for oil-based systems. Technicians clean burners, inspect fuel filters, test ignition systems, and verify safety controls. These steps prevent poor combustion and reduce strain on internal parts. Water temperature settings receive adjustment to match household needs and improve comfort.
Oil tanks, fuel lines, and venting systems also receive inspection during maintenance visits. Small leaks, corrosion, and airflow restrictions get addressed before they cause major damage. This proactive care extends system life, improves heating consistency, and reduces unexpected shutdowns. Regular maintenance also helps homeowners plan ahead. Early detection of wear allows repairs to happen before breakdowns interrupt hot water service.
Safety and Compliance for Oil-Fired Water Heating Systems
Oil-fired water heaters require strict safety standards to protect homes and occupants. Fuel handling, combustion processes, ventilation systems, and pressure controls all demand careful oversight. Small installation or maintenance errors can create fire hazards, carbon monoxide risks, and water damage.
Penning Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric follows current safety guidelines and building codes for every service call. Technicians verify venting paths, inspect exhaust connections, and confirm proper draft levels. Safety switches, relief valves, and temperature controls receive routine testing.
Fuel delivery systems also receive inspection to prevent leaks and contamination. Electrical connections get evaluated to ensure stable ignition and safe operation. These safety checks protect both equipment and living spaces. Homeowners gain peace of mind knowing their oil water heater meets regulatory requirements and operates within safe limits year-round.
