The warm, sunny, and breezy days of the summer are will slowly make way for colder winter days. Soon, the green parks will turn into frosty white patches. Blankets and winterwear have already come out. As temperatures go down, electricity bills will go up. Those large electric heaters that keep you warm also cost you a fortune. In the last decade, the popularity of oil filled radiators has increased significantly.

Oil filled radiators are an economical and safer alternative to electric heaters. Since they use oil, they do an excellent job of keeping a room hot for a considerable time even after you have switched off the heater. They do not burn oxygen and are thus, safe to be used around babies. They are also an ideal choice for large spaces. However, much like the other radiators, oil filled radiators need customary maintenance. Leaking oil is a common problem associated with these heaters.

This article will focus on the anatomy of oil filled radiators to solve the primary issue linked to these radiators: leaking oil.

How Do Oil Filled Radiators Work?

Oil filled radiators resemble the traditional heaters in appearance. However, these radiators are generally smaller in size. The design of oil filled radiators varies. Some radiators feature columns or fins while others feature flat panels. However, almost all designs are portable, with larger models featuring wheels for secure handling.

The body of the heater holds the diathermic oil, which does not require refilling or replacement. This diathermic oil used has a high specific heat capacity and high boiling point. It is due to these properties that the diathermic oil is used as the heat reservoir in oil filled radiators. When the heater is switched on, the resistor converts the electric energy into heat. The diathermic oil absorbs this heat. The oil then passes through the fins and columns to transfer heat to the metal. As the metal heats up, it moves heat energy into the room. After that, the air does its job of dissipating heat energy.

Why Do Oil Filled Radiators Leak Oil

Oil filled radiators are low-maintenance radiators. However, a common problem associated with these radiators is that of oil leakage. This oil leakage can happen due to several reasons. Some of the common causes include a fractured oil gasket, broken weld joints, and damage due to improper storage and handling. Unfortunately, if an oil filled radiator starts leaking oil, there isn’t much that can be done.

Is It Possible to Avoid Oil Leakage?

However, users can take certain precautions to avoid oil leakage from oil filled radiators. To start with, always handle oil filled radiators with utmost care. If you want to move them from one place to another, be extremely careful while wheeling them around. Oil gaskets and weld joints mostly break due to mishandling. Similarly, always cover the radiator to ensure the fins are protected from dust and other materials.

What Should You Do If Your Oil Filled Radiator Starts Leaking?

The diathermic oil that acts as a heat reservoir in oil filled radiators is filled into the heater at the factory. This diathermic oil is loaded only once, and users aren’t required to change it ever. This is the precise reason why oil filled radiators are counted as low-maintenance radiators. However, there is also a downside to this. Once an oil filled radiator is filled with oil at the factory, the oil compartment is sealed permanently. It is, thus, impossible to change or repair oil leakage in oil filled radiators.

Oil leakages can be dangerous. Thus, if you notice any liquid coming out from an oil filled radiator, immediately disconnect the radiator. Call the manufacturing company and ask for a replacement if the radiator is in warranty.

Summary

Oil filled radiators are a convenient option if you are tired of massive electricity bills that burn your pocket. These heaters are practical, comfortable, and economical. Unlike other radiators, oil filled radiators require minimum maintenance. They are sturdy and build to last. However, unfortunately, sometimes oil filled radiators develop the problem of oil leakage, a problem that cannot be corrected. When this happens, radiator owners have no choice but to discard the heater. The good news is, with some care and attention, radiator owners can reduce the problem of oil leakage.