Millions of Americans use oil furnaces to keep their homes toasty warm through the cold season. These furnaces don’t cost a lot to install and can last a couple of decades with regular care. Unlike electric or gas furnaces, however, oil furnaces require you to frequently fill up a tank. Oil-based heating systems need regular refills to ensure that you can keep your home comfortable for your family. Learn more about your oil furnace’s refill needs here.
Oil Furnace Facts
The average residential home has a 275-gallon tank. Your tank may be inside your home or underground. It’s typically recommended to call for a refill when your tank reaches one-quarter full. Letting your tank go completely empty increases the risk of contaminants getting into your furnace.
Your average oil usage depends on the size and layout of your home. Most households will use anywhere from 2 to 8 gallons a day. This usage is also dependent on the season and how often you require heating during any given day.
You’ll likely only need about one tank to get you through the temperate fall weather. When you first kick on your heating in October or November, you’ll only need a few gallons a day to keep the home warm. Your usage will begin to increase in December when temperatures start to dive below freezing.
Temperatures are often at their lowest in January and February. During this time, one tank of oil may only last you five to six weeks at most. Between October and April, you could require anywhere from three to five oil refills.
If you’re curious about your oil furnace’s unique capabilities, consider checking the manufacturing information. Look on your burner nozzle or burner plate for capacity specifications. You can also gather your previous heating bills to find your average oil usage. This is also a great way to keep track of your system’s overall efficiency. Consider contacting an experienced professional to learn more information about your furnace’s make and model.
Ways to Lower Heating Bills
Refilling your oil throughout the winter can be a pain. It’s easy to forget to call until you’ve completely run out, which could negatively impact your heating system. You may also run dry during a holiday or when your company of choice is already busy with other orders. One of the easiest ways to alleviate your seasonal heating headache is by scheduling oil deliveries. Plan your first refill in late summer or early fall when prices are lower and demand hasn’t risen yet.
You should also find ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Test for drafts and cold spots before the start of winter. Make sure your attic is insulated with high-quality materials. Turn down your thermostat during the night or when no one is at home. It’s best to install a programmable thermostat if you want consistently lower energy bills. These devices will automatically adjust your comfort settings based on the weather or time of day.
Importance of Maintenance
Don’t underestimate the importance and value of calling for professional oil furnace maintenance at least twice a year. An expert can check your current oil tank for harmful residue or sediment that could eventually make its way into your furnace. If your tank becomes contaminated, you may have to drain it and have it professionally cleaned before scheduling a refill. This can be a costly process that wastes oil and leaves your home without heat.
A professional will also help prevent moisture accumulation and work to increase the overall efficiency of the system. Without proper care, your oil furnace could develop structural issues that lower the system’s lifespan. These issues can also impact the safety of the furnace, putting you and your family in potential danger. Lower your oil consumption and boost your comfort this winter by calling for expert maintenance.
Superior HVAC System Services
Trust Markool Heating & Cooling for convenient and reliable heating and cooling services in Frederick, MD. Since we were founded in 2016, we’ve provided state-of-the-art indoor comfort services to families and businesses in the area. You can always count on us to offer free estimates and carry the highest quality Carrier products. We’re ready to maintain, repair, or replace your AC and heating system. We also offer indoor air quality solutions, zoning systems, and ductless mini-split installations. Call today to schedule your personalized service appointment with Markool Heating & Cooling in Frederick.
