When you live in upstate New York, having an oil-based furnace can be a reliable way to stay warm throughout the harsh winter. However, if you use this kind of system, it’s important to understand that home heating oil is still vulnerable to changing temperatures. When exposed to temperatures of 32 degrees or lower, the fuel can turn into a thick gel that can keep your system from working properly. To help you avoid this seasonal risk, here are a few steps you should take to ensure your oil tank is ready for the winter.  

How to Winterize Your Oil Tank

1. Make Sure the Tank is Full

When you don’t have a full tank, you may run out of fuel unexpectedly and lose the ability to heat your home. Empty tanks can also develop condensation, a problem that leads to corrosion and leaks.

Have your local oil delivery provider fill the tank. The system’s vent whistle should sound to let you know when it’s full. If the vent whistle or alarm doesn’t work properly, have it replaced to ensure that you’re getting accurate readings.

2. Cover Outdoor Tanks

If you have an outdoor oil tank, make sure it is securely housed or insulated. This barrier can help shield the fuel from cold temperatures, as well as protect the tank from destructive elements, such as snow.

3. Fine-Tune the Fuel Line

The fuel line can be a vulnerable spot for heating oil, especially if it’s exposed to cold temperatures. To prevent the fuel from gelling inside the line and causing a clog, have it fully insulated. Opting for a wider fuel line can also make it less likely for clogs to form.

4. Consider Additives

In the winter, it’s a good idea to have seasonal additives mixed in with the fuel. These solutions help keep the oil in a fluid state in colder temperatures but won’t compromise the fuel’s integrity or performance.

5. Schedule a Professional Inspection

Before winter arrives, have a specialist from your local oil company inspect the fuel tank. During this evaluation, they will make sure the gauges and other components work correctly to keep you updated on current home heating oil levels. They can also check for and resolve problems that can impact seasonal performance or harm the equipment, such as moisture in the tank or leaks.

Committed to keeping Palmyra, NY homes warm, Main Energy, Inc. is a leading resource for all your home heating oil needs this winter. Offering comprehensive service and heating contracts, this supplier will make sure your tank can stand up to the stresses of the season. With their automatic oil delivery plans, they will also keep your tank full at a competitive rate. They even offer 24-hour support for emergencies, such as unexpected winter outages. Visit this oil company online to learn more about their heating services and other fuel products, including propane and gasoline. For service or quote requests, call (315) 597-5200.