Heating oil is a popular and reliable resource for your home, providing much-needed warmth in the winter. However, it can gel if temperatures drop too low. Here’s what to know about this issue to ensure your supply remains usable throughout the season.

Does Heating Oil Freeze?

Oil tanks can be stored above or below ground, but either setup can be affected by external temperatures. While you may notice heating oil becoming cloudy when it is lower than 35 degrees Fahrenheit, your fuel will still be accessible, and your furnace won’t be in danger of shutting off.

If the temperature falls below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, the paraffin in the oil can start to separate and crystallize. These frosty crystals attach to the fuel line and limit how much oil can move through the system.

Your furnace may stop working since there’s no fuel source feeding into it. A heating expert will need to repair the situation to get you back up and running.

How Can You Prevent It From Gelling?

There are ways to stop heating oil from crystalizing in cold temperatures. Indoor oil filters are an excellent first step since the inside of your home will usually be warmer than the outside.

Insulating the fuel lines can slow the freezing process and keep them warm enough for the oil to flow through. Choose waterproof insulation to keep out moisture and prevent corrosion. You can also professionals about burying the fuel lines underground so that the earth acts as an insulator.  

Blended heating oil features a lower freezing point than traditional choices. This blend typically includes kerosene and allows temperatures to drop to 16 degrees Fahrenheit without the risk of freezing.

A more economical solution can be putting an anti-gelling additive into the fuel, typically saving the consumer 75-80 cents per gallon over blending with kerosene.

For heating oil in Armstrong and surrounding counties in Pennsylvania, contact Bradigan’s Incorporated. Since 1952, the company has offered 24-hour care for their customers. Their fuel delivery service keeps your tank stocked, and their skilled technicians ensure your system is running well. Call (724) 548-7654 to discuss oil, gasoline, kerosene, and other options, or visit them online for more on their products.