Top 5 Fuel Oil Furnaces: Buying Guide & Reviews

Does the thought of a chilly winter night make you worry about your home’s heating? Choosing the right furnace is a big deal for staying warm and saving money. Fuel oil furnaces are a popular choice, but knowing which one works best for your home can feel like a puzzle. You might wonder about efficiency, cost, and maintenance, and that’s totally normal!

Picking a fuel oil furnace involves balancing warmth, your budget, and how much work it takes to keep it running. It can be confusing to sort through all the different types and features. Don’t let the choices freeze you up!

This post will break down everything you need to know about fuel oil furnaces in a way that makes sense. We’ll explore what makes them tick, how to pick the perfect one for you, and tips to keep it working smoothly for years. Get ready to feel confident about your home’s heating system!

Top Fuel Oil Furnace Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1
Goodman 120,000 BTU 96% Efficiency multi-speed, two-stage upflow/horizontal Furnace Model: (GR9T961205DN) Cabinet is 24.5 inches wide-R32 Ready-Nationwide installation-NOT including CA
  • GR9T961205DN Replaces the following older furnace model numbers: GR9T961205DN,GMEC961205DN,GM9C961205DN,GMEC961205DNA
  • Upflow/Horizontal installation-CANNOT be installed as a downflow. Please look for model numbers beginning with GD9 instead. Please contact us with any questions.
  • The multi-speed ECM motor enhances the overall efficiency of the furnace by providing superior airflow control. This feature not only improves heating performance but also reduces noise, making it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking both comfort and efficiency.
  • Aluminized Steel Primary Heat Exchanger
  • Accessories such as LP conversion kits, venting kits etc Sold Separately
Bestseller No. 2
Goodman 80,000 BTU 80% Efficiency multi-speed, single-stage upflow/horizontal Furnace Model: (GR9S800804BN) Cabinet is 17.5 inches wide-R32 Ready-Nationwide installation-NOT including CA
  • GR9S800804BN Replaces the following older furnace model numbers: GM9S800804BN,GMES800804BN,GMS80804BN
  • Upflow/Horizontal installation-CANNOT be installed as a downflow. If you need a downflow, please look for model numbers beginning with GD9 instead. Please contact us with any questions.
  • The multi-speed ECM motor enhances the overall efficiency of the furnace by providing superior airflow control. This feature not only improves heating performance but also reduces noise, making it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking both comfort and efficiency.
  • Aluminized Steel Primary Heat Exchanger
  • This comes with a 10-year parts limited warranty if it is installed by a qualified installer and registered online with 60 days of installation. Register your new Goodman unit for enhanced warranty coverage at no cost. Be confident with a 10-year unit replacement limited warranty.
SaleBestseller No. 3
MorningRo 2 Pcs Solid Oil Burner Nozzle 0.75-80 B Replacement Spray Brass Oil Fuel Burner Nozzle 80 Degree
  • Model Specifications: The package includes 2 pcs of the Oil Burner Solid Spray Nozzle. Each nozzle's model is at 80 degrees, 0.75Ghp. These specific attributes make the nozzle efficient and suitable for many applications
  • Quality Material: The Spray Nozzle is crafted from heavy brass, exuding a rich brown hue and providing a rust proof, practically indestructible construction. It offers durability and a longer lifespan. Ideal for those looking for a brass spray nozzle that resists cracking and breakage
  • Optimized Heat Conductivity: The Oil Burner Nozzle harnesses the impressive conductivity properties of brass to dissipate heat away from the nozzle surface swiftly. This functionality effectively reduces the likelihood of varnish and oil residue build-up, enhancing the longevity of the item
  • Precision Engineered: Fitted with stainless steel metering components, the brass sprayer nozzle is precision machined to close tolerances. This offers consistently performance making the Oil Burner Nozzle Brass an incredible addition to your tool kit
  • Effortless Maintenance: Considering the brass material, the Replacement Oil Nozzle is very easy to maintain. It doesn't rust, cracks, or breaks, Spend less time. worrying about upkeep and more time getting the job done
Bestseller No. 4
General Filter 1A-30 Filter Replacement Cartridges
  • The product is manufactured in China
  • The product is highly durable and easy to use
  • Easy installation and easy handling
  • Model number: 1A-30
Bestseller No. 5
ComStar Super Heat, 8-in-1 Fuel Oil Treatment, Controls Waxing & Jelling, Melts Ice, Lowers Pour Point, Dissolves Sludge, Reduces Soot, Rust, Water, Cleans Parts, Made In USA, 16 Ounces (60-130)
  • ComStar’s Super Heat is a trusted choice for maintaining fuel systems, offering 8 treatments in 1. It supports smooth operation by melting ice, lowering the pour point, addressing waxing and jelling, reducing water, cleaning parts, dissolving sludge, minimizing soot, and helping protect against rust.
  • Fuel treatments help enhance the efficiency and longevity of fuel systems. Over time, impurities like carbon and water can accumulate in fuel tanks, potentially affecting performance. Regular use of Super Heat supports consistent operation and system care.
  • Water can sometimes enter fuel tanks, leading to potential issues. Super Heat helps maintain system integrity by addressing water accumulation and supporting cleaner operation.
  • In colder climates, fuel may thicken in low temperatures. Super Heat helps maintain optimal flow, keeping systems running smoothly even in challenging weather conditions.
  • Use Super Heat regularly for year-round fuel system care and improved efficiency. Add 8 oz. with every 275-gallon refill to maintain peak performance.
Bestseller No. 6
Goodman 60,000 BTU 80% Efficiency Multi-Speed, Single-Stage downflow Furnace Model: (GD9S800603AN) Cabinet is 14 inches wide-R32 Ready-Nationwide Installation-NOT Including CA
  • GD9S800603AN Replaces the following older furnace model numbers: GD9S800603AN,GC9S800603AN,GCES800603AN,GDS80603AN
  • Downflow/Horizontal installation-CANNOT be installed as an upflow. Please look for model numbers beginning with GR9 instead. Please contact us with any questions.
  • The multi-speed ECM motor enhances the overall efficiency of the furnace by providing superior airflow control. This feature not only improves heating performance but also reduces noise, making it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking both comfort and efficiency.
  • Aluminized Steel Primary Heat Exchanger
  • Accessories such as line sets and LP kits are sold separately.
SaleBestseller No. 7
FPPF Chemical Co 00161 16 OZ HOT 4-in-1 Heating Oil Treatment (2 Bottles)
  • Provides superior winter, as well as year-round, protection for outside, inside and underground oil storage tanks
  • Prevents sludge and growth in bio heating oil
  • Designed to control waxing, gelling and ice formation
  • Can be used in all heating oil systems such as steel, fiberglass and combination (inner tank consists of polyethylene composite, outer tank consists of galvanized steel)
  • Includes 2 bottles of 16oz FPPF Hot 4-in 1 Heating Oil Treatment
Bestseller No. 8
Ganivsor 2pk Replacement Fuel Oil Heat Filters for Cartridge 1A-30
  • Fuel oil heat filters cartridge 1A-30
  • 10-micron wool felt. Center core bonded to prevent media migration. COMES WITH GASKETS
  • Replace parts number: 1A-25A, 1A-25B, 77, S264, F10
  • Replace parts number: F12, F15, F20, F25, 264, 264F, F300, A-77, 8055
  • If you have any questions about this item, please contact us.We will help you as soon as possible.

Choosing Your Fuel Oil Furnace: A Buyer’s Guide

A fuel oil furnace keeps your home warm when the weather gets cold. These furnaces burn heating oil to create heat. Buying the right one involves looking at a few important things. This guide helps you understand what matters most.

Key Features to Look For

Good furnaces have features that make them work well and save you money. Always check these points before you buy.

Efficiency Rating (AFUE)

AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. This number tells you how well the furnace turns oil into usable heat. A higher AFUE means less wasted oil and lower bills. Look for furnaces with an AFUE of 85% or higher. Modern, high-efficiency models can reach 90% or more.

Sizing and Capacity

The furnace must match the size of your home. An undersized furnace runs constantly and never heats well. An oversized furnace turns on and off too much, which wastes energy and causes wear and tear. Professionals measure your home’s heat loss to determine the correct size (measured in BTUs).

Burner Type

Most modern furnaces use a “high-pressure atomizing burner.” This burner sprays the oil into a very fine mist for clean burning. Simpler, older models might use a “low-pressure burner,” which is generally less efficient.

Important Materials and Construction

The materials used determine how long your furnace lasts and how safely it operates.

Heat Exchanger Quality

The heat exchanger is the part that gets hot and transfers that heat to the air blowing through your ducts. It handles the most stress. Look for durable materials like cast iron or quality steel. Cracks in the heat exchanger mean the furnace needs replacement.

Insulation

Good insulation keeps the heat inside the furnace cabinet. This improves efficiency. Check that the cabinet panels are well-insulated and tightly sealed.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Some aspects boost performance, while others can cause problems down the road.

Noise Level

Furnaces make noise when they run. High-quality units often include sound-dampening features. If the furnace is near a living space, look for lower decibel ratings. Better engineering usually means quieter operation.

Maintenance Requirements

All fuel oil furnaces need regular cleaning and tune-ups. Furnaces designed for easier access to parts like the nozzle and filter reduce maintenance time and cost. Complex designs can make simple repairs expensive.

Warranty Coverage

A strong warranty shows the manufacturer trusts their product. Check the length of the warranty on the heat exchanger specifically, as this is the most critical part. Longer warranties (10 years or more on parts) offer better protection.

User Experience and Use Cases

How a furnace performs in a real home matters most.

Consistent Heat Delivery

A good furnace delivers steady, even heat throughout your home. You should not feel hot blasts followed by long cold spells. Reliable thermostats and good airflow management contribute to this steady experience.

Compatibility with Existing Systems

If you are replacing an old unit, ensure the new furnace fits into your existing ductwork and venting system. A professional installer makes sure the transition is smooth. Fuel oil furnaces are great for homes without access to natural gas lines, making them a reliable primary heat source in rural areas.


Fuel Oil Furnace FAQs

Q: What is the average lifespan of a fuel oil furnace?

A: With regular maintenance, most quality fuel oil furnaces last between 15 and 25 years. Taking care of the heat exchanger is key to reaching the longer end of that range.

Q: How often must I change the oil filter?

A: You should generally check the oil filter every heating season. Most homeowners replace the filter once a year, usually before the cold weather starts.

Q: Are fuel oil furnaces safe?

A: Yes, modern fuel oil furnaces are very safe when installed correctly. They have safety controls that shut the unit down if combustion issues or high temperatures occur.

Q: What is the difference between #2 heating oil and #1?

A: #2 heating oil is the most common type used in furnaces during normal winter temperatures. #1 oil is thinner and burns better in extremely cold climates to prevent the oil from getting too thick.

Q: Does a high AFUE rating always mean a higher upfront cost?

A: Usually, yes. High-efficiency models cost more initially because they use more advanced technology, like secondary heat exchangers. However, the energy savings often pay back the extra cost over time.

Q: Can I use a fuel oil furnace with central air conditioning?

A: Absolutely. Most forced-air oil furnaces can easily integrate with a central air conditioning system. The same blower fan moves the cool air in the summer.

Q: What should I do if my furnace smells like oil?

A: If you smell oil, turn the furnace off immediately at the switch. Do not try to restart it. Call your oil supplier or an HVAC technician right away. This indicates a leak or a problem with the burner.

Q: Is there a way to make my old furnace more efficient?

A: Yes. Keeping the heat exchanger clean and making sure the burner is properly tuned (a professional service) can significantly improve performance. Also, ensure your ductwork does not have leaks.

Q: What is “draft hood” and why is it important?

A: The draft hood sits on top of the furnace chimney connection. It helps ensure that combustion fumes exit safely up the flue. Proper venting is crucial for safety and efficiency.

Q: Where should the furnace be installed?

A: Furnaces are typically installed in a basement, utility room, or sometimes a large closet. The area must be clean, dry, and have enough space around the unit for safe servicing and proper airflow.