As the days get longer, and the weather gets warmer, you’re probably dusting off your list of spring chores. For many of us, that includes clearing gutters, yard work, and cleaning the grill. There’s one thing that might not be on the list but should be: One last fill-up of your oil tank.
Making sure you have a tank of fuel for the long, hot summer may seem, well, crazy, but hear us out.
There are two extremely important reasons to request a heating oil delivery in the springtime.
You probably don’t think much about your fuel tank unless it’s empty and we’re in the middle of a deep freeze. And while modern fuel tanks are built to last, like everything, they’ll last longer if you take care of them.
Keeping your fuel tank full over the summer will extend its life. How so? When a heating oil tank sits empty, condensation can form—and that can result in all kinds of problems. First, when condensation forms on the interior walls of an empty tank, that water drips down and sinks to the bottom of the tank. That’s because water is denser than heating oil. From there, it becomes an ideal environment for bacteria and other microorganisms. Over time, it turns into sediment or sludge that can get into your fuel lines and clog them up. This will cause your heating system to shut down—likely in the next winter season—when you’re counting on it most.
Sludge can also corrode your tank from the inside out—a big problem that could be difficult to see coming and costly to remediate. Of course, in the winter, your tank doesn’t stay empty long, and condensation is less likely to form in colder temps. But in summer, especially if your tank is outside, condensation will form quickly.
If you have a full tank in the fall, you won’t have to fight for a conveniently timed heating oil delivery appointment when everyone else is trying to get a delivery, too. You’ll also be ready for an early cold snap. We’ll also suggest you get your heating system tune-up in the spring too! Not only will you have your choice of appointments, but the benefits won’t wear off over the summer.
Finally, one last thought. While fuel costs are up right now, filling up your tank to protect it from failing is a much better investment than paying for cleaning up an oil spill and a new tank—and the oil to fill it. Ready for your fill-up? Contact us today—we’ll be happy to help.
Located in Newburgh, New York, Depew Energy has been the area’s go-to heat comfort specialists since 1998. We are a family-owned and operated business that started from one simple truck to now over 25. We are always searching for new ways to better ourselves and our customers by using increased technology, easy-to-access options, and ever-growing products and services. Choose Depew—the company you can keep for life.