With winter around the corner, homeowners are thinking about ways to preserve their home heating oil. Generally, oil furnaces and boilers operate at a consistent level, but fluctuations can occur during changing weather conditions or increased heat usage. Here are some practices to conserve this important resource for your home. 

How to Limit Your Consumption of Heating Oil 

1. Seal Off Gaps & Cracks

Even if you’re conscientious about your energy use at home, seemingly small factors can significantly impact your overall usage. For example, air can seep out of cracks in your walls or gaps beneath doorways, causing your heating system to work harder to keep your home at a consistent temperature.

Conduct your own inspection at home to find areas where air could be seeping out. Then, install weatherstripping, insulation, or caulking to make these spaces airtight. Also, consider upgrading old insulation that’s lost its thickness so that air can’t escape as easily out of attics and walls. 

2. Set Your Thermostat Properly 

Most modern homes have programmable thermostats that you can easily adjust. Conserve heating oil by setting your thermostat at 68 degrees when everyone is at home. When people are out during the day or sleeping at night, lower the temperature by 10 or 15 degrees.

Program the temperature to automatically rise again before you wake up or come home in the evening. These simple changes can help you conserve oil when you aren’t at home. 

3. Get a Service Plan

Furnace service plans can help you save money and resources in the long run. Plans normally include regular furnace tuneups and other perks, like discounts on services and service guarantees.

Many companies offer various options that allow you to choose a service plan that’s best for your equipment and budget. Keeping your furnace in excellent shape will prevent excess heating oil usage and keep your costs low over time. 

 

If you need heating oil delivery or maintenance for your furnace or boiler, turn to Andersen Oil Company. This business has served homeowners throughout New London County, CT, for over 45 years. They offer 24/7 emergency services and can help with furnace repairs, replacements, and oil needs. View their heating services online, or call (860) 464-7628 to discuss oil delivery options.