Sometimes cold weather lingers longer than homeowners anticipate. In this case, your supply of heating oil may run out. Here are a few steps to take if this happens.

What to Do If Your Heating Oil Runs Out

1. Contact Your Heating Oil Company as Soon as Possible

Don’t delay in contacting your heating oil provider for a one-time or emergency delivery. Demand could potentially affect how soon your order is delivered, but you should receive a supply within 24 hours.

If your tank is empty, technicians will have to prime and restart the system. This will clear the fuel lines to make sure the system operates safely. If you aren’t set up for auto deliveries, consider signing up. The delivery service will use your household data to determine your home heating oil needs and when you’ll need an additional supply.

2. Use Kerosene or Diesel

If you’re desperate and need immediate heating, you can use diesel or kerosene as fuel until the delivery arrives. You can buy both at a gas station. At least five or ten gallons should be sufficient.

Make sure you use a container suitable for flammable products. Put the kerosene or diesel in your tank and wait ten minutes to allow the fuel to settle. Restart your furnace and run as needed. 

3. Stay Warm With Alternate Heating Sources

If purchasing diesel or kerosene isn’t possible, use alternate heating sources such as an electric space heater or fireplace to keep warm until the new oil supply arrives. Keep an alternate heat source in your home in case of emergencies, but if neither is available, cover up with blankets and huddle with other members of your household to produce natural heat. 

If you need an additional or emergency heating oil delivery in New London County and parts of Southern Windham County, CT, Norwich Discount Oil can help. For more than 25 years, this heating oil company has kept residents warm in cold weather. They offer both automatic and emergency deliveries at competitive prices, and they pride themselves on excellent customer service. Call (860) 886-5508 to request a free estimate or visit them online to learn more about their services.