As temperatures drop, keeping your home warm is essential for comfort and safety. Running out of home heating oil can be a stressful situation, especially during the coldest months. It's crucial to know what steps to take if you face this issue, so follow these emergency tips to manage the situation efficiently and effectively until your oil delivery arrives.

Conserve Remaining Heat

First, you should try to conserve the remaining heat in your home. Insulate doors and windows with blankets, towels, or draft stoppers to keep the warmth from escaping. Use space heaters carefully, ensuring they are placed on a flat surface and away from flammable materials. Layers of clothing and blankets and staying together in a central, enclosed space can help maintain warmth within the household.

Contact Your Heating Oil Supplier

Contact your usual home heating oil supplier immediately to arrange a delivery. Many companies offer emergency delivery services, which can be a lifesaver in situations like this. It's important to communicate your situation clearly and ask about any additional fees that might apply to expedite your service. Also, check with local suppliers or neighbors to find oil, as some might have extra reserves they’re willing to sell or gift.

Prevent Future Shortages

To avoid running out of heating oil in the future, consider setting up an automatic delivery service with your supplier or installing a fuel monitoring system that alerts you when levels are low. Regularly checking your oil tank, especially during peak winter months, can help you plan ahead and schedule refills before you reach a critical point. Additionally, it’s worth considering upgrading your heating system for better efficiency so that your fuel goes further. According to the Department of Energy, the annual fuel utilization efficiency rate of higher efficiency systems is between 90% and 98.5%, making them more reliable and cost-effective in the long run.

Running out of heating oil doesn’t have to be a disaster. By taking immediate steps to conserve heat, reaching out for help, and planning ahead, you can weather the storm until a proper supply is restored. Being prepared can give you peace of mind and keep your home warm and safe through the winter months. To make sure you always have the home heating oil you need, contact ABC Fuel Oil Co. Inc. Our team will be happy to assist you!