Understanding Biofuel Blends: Protect Your Heating System and Save Money

As a MetroWest Boston homeowner, you understand the importance of an efficient and safe heating system during our Massachusetts winters.

Many homes in the Northeast use oil heating, and it’s essential to know the type of oil mix your system uses. Basnett Plumbing, Heating, AC & Electrical, your trusted local heating experts, want to guide you through the complexities of biofuel blends and how they impact your oil heating system.

What Is Biofuel?

Biofuel is a renewable energy source derived from organic materials such as plant-based oils, animal fats, and algae. Unlike traditional fossil fuels, biofuel is biodegradable and burns cleaner, resulting in fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

Massachusetts requires a 5 percent biofuel mix in your heating oil. Our statewide mandate for blending biofuel with heating oil reflects a commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable energy solutions.

Why Biofuel? The Environmental and Financial Benefits

Biofuel offers environmental benefits over fossil fuels, including lower greenhouse gas emissions. In response to these advantages, Massachusetts has encouraged blending biofuel with traditional heating oil.

While this initiative is admirable, it’s crucial to understand its implications for your home heating system.

Biofuels and Heating Oil

Your boiler’s compatibility with fuel types is essential for its longevity and performance. The mix of traditional heating oil and biofuel can significantly affect your system, especially if designed for straight No. 2 heating oil.

Using the wrong biofuel blend not only risks damage to your equipment but can also lead to inefficient heating and increased costs.

The Blend Matters: Keeping Your Heating System Safe

Most standard boilers are equipped to handle a biofuel mix of 5 percent or less.

However, some local distributors are blending significantly higher percentages of biofuel—in some cases, up to 80 percent. While this might be financially advantageous for them, it can spell trouble for your heating system.

Potential Risks of High Biofuel Blends

High biofuel percentages can affect the burning efficiency of your heating oil. Blends over 20 percent can lead to a dirty burn, fouling the burning process and potentially damaging your system.

It’s also worth noting that warranties often do not cover such damages.

Be Proactive: Check Your Fuel Blend

Call your oil delivery company to check and confirm that your boiler is rated to handle the biofuel/oil mix they are delivering to your home. Ensure that this information is clearly noted on the delivery slip.

If you’re uncertain or suspect something is amiss with your heating system, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Basnett Plumbing, Heating, AC & Electrical. We’re committed to ensuring your MetroWest Boston heating system is efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly.

Can I Modify My Oil Boiler to Use Biofuel?

Modifying your oil boiler for biofuel use is possible. While some newer boilers are designed to handle higher biofuel blends, older systems might require adjustments or upgrades.

It’s important to consult with a heating professional like our Basnett team to assess your boiler’s compatibility and the potential costs involved in modifications.

Ensuring your system is optimized for biofuel can lead to more efficient heating and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Trust Basnett for Your MetroWest Boston Heating Needs

Passionate about using a biofuel mix higher than 5 percent? It’s possible, but your boiler will need to be modified to handle it without causing damage. Let’s talk more about it. Give us a ring at Basnett Plumbing, Heating, AC & Electrical—your trusted partners in home heating. Call today at 978-209-0535 or request service online to schedule a free consultation.