subject: Monitor Your Heating Oil During Cold Weather [print this page] Monitor Your Heating Oil During Cold Weather
Running out of fuel during cold weather could result in tragedy. Check out the following tips to make sure that you never run out of heating oil during the cold winter months.
Monitor Your Home Heating Oil
Keep an eye on your fuel oil supply. You use much more heating oil in cold temperatures. Never allow your tank go below 1/4 tank before placing your next fuel delivery services order. Order early to avoid run outs, especially during the coldest months.
Heating Oil Delivery Before Snowstorms
Plan at least 3 days ahead of predicted snowstorms so your heating oil delivery arrives before the storm. Snow and ice slows down fuel deliveries. Plan ahead to avoid the possibility of running out of residential heating oil.
Prepare Your Heating Oil Fill Pipe
When snow is on the ground, shovel a path to your oil fill pipe and if needed, mark the location of your oil fill so your oil driver is able to make your heating oil delivery. Drivers may be delivering home heating fuel in the dark. If you have an in-ground tank, make sure your driver can find your fill.
Driveways
Make sure your driveway is clear of snow and ice. Safety comes first. Fuel delivery drivers may not be able to make your delivery if your driveway is ice or snow covered. Plan ahead to avoid delays.
Cold Weather Emergencies
If you know that you are going to run out of oil before your delivery arrives, supplement your oil supply. Other fuels from the distillate family can be safely added to your oil tank. Distillate oils include diesel fuel, either on-road or off-road, or clear or dyed kerosene. While these fuels will be more expensive than heating oil, they all burn safely in your oil burner and can keep you warm until your delivery arrives. A good rule of thumb is that most homes use 5 gallons of fuel a day during the coldest weather.
Plan ahead and followthese valuabletipsto ensure your family's safety and comfort during the freezing winter months. Use this cold weather checklist as a resource, and try tostay warm!
