Heating oil is essential for providing warmth and comfort during the winter months, particularly for households that rely on oil-fired heating systems. Running out of heating oil can be a stressful and inconvenient situation, leading to cold homes and disrupted routines. This article explores the signs and symptoms of an empty heating oil tank and provides a step-by-step guide on what to do if you find yourself in this predicament.
Key Facts
- Check the gauge on your heating oil tank: If your tank has a gauge, it should display a bar or a level indicating how much oil is left in the tank. It is recommended to refill the tank when the gauge reads between ¼ and 1/3 full to ensure it never runs dry.
- Confirm the fuel oil tank is empty: If you suspect you’ve run out of heating oil, go down to the fuel oil tank and check if there is any oil in it. Most fuel oil tanks are equipped with a float-style gauge, which gives a general indication of how full the tank is. Unscrew the plastic vial and press the red disc down gently with your finger. If the disc slowly rises back up, it indicates that there is still oil in the tank. If there is no oil, it suggests that the tank is empty.
- No heat or hot water: If you experience a lack of heat or hot water, it could be an indication that you’ve run out of heating oil. However, it’s important to note that other issues with your heating system could also cause this problem. Therefore, it’s essential to confirm the absence of oil in the tank before concluding that you’ve run out.
If you’ve determined that you’ve run out of heating oil, here are some steps you can take:
- Order heating oil: Place an order for heating oil online or contact a local oil company to schedule a delivery. It’s advisable to confirm the delivery date and time with the company.
- Add diesel fuel as a temporary solution: If you need immediate heat, you can add 5 or 10 gallons of diesel fuel to your tank. Diesel fuel is similar to heating oil and can be used as a temporary substitute. Pour the diesel fuel into the fill pipe on the outside of your house where the oil truck hooks up.
- Restart your oil burner: After adding diesel fuel or once your heating oil is delivered, you may need to restart your oil burner. Check that the emergency on/off switches are in the on position and the thermostat is set to the desired temperature. Press the reset button on your oil burner, which is usually a big red button, to initiate the burner’s operation. If the system doesn’t start, you may need to bleed air out of the lines or contact an HVAC technician.
Identifying an Empty Heating Oil Tank
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Check the Gauge
If your heating oil tank has a gauge, it typically displays a bar or level indicating the remaining oil. Aim to refill the tank when the gauge reads between ¼ and 1/3 full to prevent running out.
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Inspect the Tank
Go to the fuel oil tank and remove the cap on top. Use a flashlight to illuminate the inside. If the tank is clearly full, there is no cause for concern. However, if you see solid residue or the tank appears empty, you may have run out of fuel oil.
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Measure the Oil Manually
For most heating oil tanks, you can use a long, clean, and dry stick to measure the oil level. Lower the stick through the hole until it reaches the bottom of the tank. Refer to a chart that correlates the depth of the stick with the remaining gallons of oil.
Steps to Take if You’ve Run Out of Heating Oil
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Order Heating Oil
Place an order for heating oil online or contact a local oil company to schedule a delivery. Confirm the delivery date and time with the company to ensure prompt service.
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Add Diesel Fuel Temporarily
If you need immediate heat while waiting for your heating oil delivery, you can add 5 or 10 gallons of diesel fuel to your tank. Diesel fuel is similar to heating oil and can serve as a temporary substitute. Pour the diesel fuel into the fill pipe on the outside of your house where the oil truck hooks up.
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Restart Your Oil Burner
Once you’ve added diesel fuel or received your heating oil delivery, you may need to restart your oil burner. Ensure that the emergency on/off switches are in the on position and the thermostat is set to the desired temperature. Press the reset button on your oil burner, usually a large red button, to initiate the burner’s operation. If the system doesn’t start, you may need to bleed air out of the lines or contact an HVAC technician for assistance.
Citations
- “How Do I Know If I’ve Run Out of Heating Oil?” Husky Heating Oil, 15 Apr. 2020, www.huskyheatingoil.com/how-do-i-know-if-i-am-out-of-heating-oil/.
- “What To Do If You Run Out Of Heating Oil – Step-By-Step Oil Guide.” FuelSnap, 27 May 2020, www.fuelsnap.com/blog/what-to-do-if-you-run-out-of-heating-oil/.
- “Will Running Out of Fuel Oil Damage My Tank?” Home Improvement Stack Exchange, 3 Mar. 2014, diy.stackexchange.com/questions/39609/will-running-out-of-fuel-oil-damage-my-tank.
FAQs
How can I tell if my heating oil tank is empty?
- Check the gauge on your heating oil tank (if equipped) or inspect the tank directly for any visible oil. You can also use a long stick to measure the oil level manually.
What should I do if I think I’ve run out of heating oil?
- Place an order for heating oil online or contact a local oil company to schedule a delivery. If you need immediate heat, you can temporarily add diesel fuel to your tank.
Can I use diesel fuel instead of heating oil?
- Yes, diesel fuel can be used as a temporary substitute for heating oil. However, it’s important to note that diesel fuel may not be as efficient and could potentially damage your heating system if used長期.
How do I restart my oil burner after running out of heating oil?
- Ensure that the emergency on/off switches are in the on position and the thermostat is set to the desired temperature. Press the reset button on your oil burner to initiate its operation. If the system doesn’t start, you may need to bleed air out of the lines or contact an HVAC technician.
What happens if I run out of heating oil?
- Running out of heating oil can lead to a cold home and disrupted routines. It can also potentially cause damage to your heating system if the oil burner continues to operate without fuel.
How can I prevent running out of heating oil?
- Regularly monitor your heating oil tank gauge or use a smart oil gauge to track your oil levels. Consider enrolling in an automatic delivery program offered by your heating oil supplier to ensure timely deliveries.
What is the best way to store heating oil?
- Store heating oil in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the tank tightly sealed to prevent contamination and moisture buildup.
How often should I have my heating oil tank inspected?
- It’s recommended to have your heating oil tank inspected annually by a qualified technician to ensure its safety and proper operation. Regular inspections can help identify potential issues and prevent costly repairs or replacements.