If you live in an area with cold winters and use heating oil to heat your home, you need to make sure the oil doesn’t freeze. But why exactly does it freeze in the first place? And, how can you prevent this issue? Here’s a guide to why heating oil freezes and what you can do to stop it.

Why Does Heating Oil Freeze?

Heating oil is susceptible to freezing temperatures because it is usually stored outside. Cold weather can turn it into a wax- or gel-like substance in a process called “clouding.” As your oil continues to cool, it will reach its “pour point,” which is when it will no longer flow through your pipes. 

Heating oil is most likely to freeze if your fuel lines aren’t insulated. The surface of the lines is exposed to the elements, which can be quite harsh for those who live in colder areas. If your lines aren’t waterproof, rain and snow from winter storms can also contribute to your oil freezing. 

How to Prevent Your Heating Oil From Freezing

To keep your heating oil from freezing, be proactive. Since oil is most susceptible to freezing when it is outside, the first solution might be to move your filters indoors. However, if this is not an option, you may need a technician to waterproof and insulate your oil pipes, wrap them in heat tape, or perhaps both. A technician may also bury your system to protect it from the elements. 

If that’s not enough, you can also blend other fuels, like kerosene or diesel fuel, into your heating oil to lower its freezing point. Certain mixes can be hazardous, so this is something you need to leave to a trained professional. Another option is to switch over entirely to kerosene, but this is a more expensive fuel to use for your heat. 

If you live in the Juneau, Alaska, area, you will surely experience some harsh weather. If you think your oil might be at risk of freezing, call Ike’s Fuel. For nearly 50 years, this family-owned heating oil supplier has kept their neighbors warm throughout the year. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (907) 364-3420.