Our most important cold-weather tip is to keep a close eye on your fuel oil supply. You use much more heating oil with cold temperatures, so never let your tank go below 1/4 tank before you place your next heating oil order. You should order early to avoid run outs, especially during the coldest months of the year. Remember that all our drivers become extremely busy when we have extended sub-freezing temperatures, so delivery times are likely to take longer.
Similarly, plan at least 3 days ahead of predicted snowstorms so your heating oil delivery arrives before the snow. Snow and ice slows down deliveries, so planning can avoid the anxiety of running low on oil.
When snow is on the ground, be sure you 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 deliver your heating oil. Do not forget that with the short days of winter our drivers may be delivering in the dark. If you have an in-ground tank, your driver needs to be able to find your fill. Flagging it for them will make your PA or NJ heating oil deliveries go smoothly every time.
Make sure your driveway is clear of snow and ice. Safety always comes first, so our drivers may nspot be able to make your delivery if your driveway is covered in ice or snow. Plan ahead to avoid delivery delays and re-delivery fees.
If you get to the point where you know you are going to run out of oil before your delivery arrives, supplement your oil supply before you run out. It will avoid inconvenience and sometimes expensive start-ups...and more importantly, keep you warm. You can add other fuels from the distillate family to your oil tank...diesel fuel (either on-road or off-road) or kerosene (either clear or dyed). While these fuels will be more expensive than heating oil, they all burn safely in your oil burner. A good rule of thumb for most homes is 5 gallons/day during cold weather.