Fall is the perfect time to enjoy cool, crisp air and beautiful foliage. It’s also the perfect time to make sure your home’s oil heating system is ready for winter. Homeowners in New London and the surrounding communities count on Andersen Oil Company for all of their heating oil needs, from installing and maintaining their oil furnaces to providing affordable home heating oil delivery plans.

Before cold weather arrives, take the following steps to make sure your oil heating system is prepared. Although it may feel premature, it’s better to start early than wake up in a freezing house.

How to Prepare Your Home’s Oil Heating System for Winter

1. Schedule an Inspection

During the warmer months, your system’s ventilation can accumulate dust and other contaminants. This buildup can reduce energy efficiency and become a fire hazard when you begin using your furnace again. An inspection will identify potential problems before they become serious hazards.

2. Clean Your Furnace & Ventilation

Check to see if the filters are clean and properly aligned. Remember to also have your chimney inspected for soot buildup and signs of animal activity.

3. Switch Your Thermostat to Heating Settings

Monitor your thermostat’s ability to start up and respond to changing temperatures throughout the day to make sure your oil heating system is functioning properly. Upgrading from a manual thermostat to an automatic one can help you save time and money.

4. Uncover Heating Vents

Your home’s floor vents need to be completely uncovered for maximum efficiency. Blockages caused by furniture or rugs being placed on top of the vents can cause your furnace to overheat.

5. Eliminate Air Leaks

Small openings around windows, doors, and vents can allow heated air to escape your house. This can force your oil heating system to work harder to maintain your desired temperature. Sealing these leaks keeps heated air in your home, where it belongs.

Visit Andersen Oil Company online to learn more about their home heating oil products and services, including their cost-effective delivery plans. Call (860) 464-7628 to schedule a consultation.