Posted: February 17, 2025
What Happens If You Run Out of Heating Oil?
Understanding the Consequences
Heating oil is a vital resource for homes that rely on it for warmth during the colder months. However, running out of heating oil can be a stressful experience, especially during frigid weather. Knowing what happens when your supply runs dry and how to handle the situation can help you minimize disruptions and prevent future occurrences.
Immediate Effects of Running Out of Heating Oil
Here’s what happens when you run out of heating oil:
- Loss of Heat: The most obvious consequence of running out of heating oil is the loss of heat in your home. Without fuel, your furnace or boiler cannot generate warmth, leaving your living space cold and uncomfortable. This can be especially concerning during severe winter conditions, as prolonged exposure to low temperatures can lead to frozen pipes and other property damage.
- System Shut Down: When your heating oil tank runs dry, your heating system may automatically shut down to prevent damage. While this safety feature protects your equipment, restarting the system after a refill often requires priming the oil line to remove air. This process should be performed by a professional.
- Potential Damage to the System: Running out of oil can cause sediment from the bottom of the tank to be drawn into the system. This can clog filters, lines, and nozzles, potentially damaging components and reducing the efficiency of your heating system. Regular maintenance and keeping your tank adequately filled can help avoid this issue.
What to Do If You Run Out
Here’s what to do if you run out of heating oil:
- Call for an Emergency Delivery: Many heating oil suppliers offer emergency delivery services for situations like this. While these services can come with an additional cost, they ensure you can restore heat quickly.
- Use a Temporary Solution: While waiting for an oil delivery, consider using space heaters or a wood stove (if you have one) to keep warm. Be sure to follow all safety guidelines to prevent fire hazards. Do not try to use your oven for heat.
- Prime Your System: Once your tank is refilled, you may need to prime your heating system to remove air from the lines. This is a delicate process that often requires professional assistance. Avoid attempting it yourself if you’re unsure how to proceed, as improper handling can lead to damage.
How to Avoid Running Out of Heating Oil
To avoid running out of heating oil, do the following:
- Monitor Your Tank Levels: Regularly check your oil tank to ensure you have enough fuel, especially during the colder months when usage is higher. Install a tank gauge if your system doesn’t have one to make monitoring easier.
- Set Up Automatic Deliveries: Many heating oil providers offer automatic delivery services based on your usage patterns. This ensures your tank is refilled before it gets too low, eliminating the risk of running out. Ace-Robbins offers no-fee automatic delivery.
The Bottom Line
Running out of heating oil can lead to discomfort, system complications, and even costly repairs. By staying proactive with monitoring and scheduling deliveries (or signing up for automatic delivery), you can keep your home warm and your heating system running smoothly all winter long.
A Dependable Heating Oil Provider
Ace-Robbins offers our customers in the greater Tunkhannock area and beyond dependable and affordable heating oil deliveries. We also offer a free automatic delivery service to reduce the risk of a run-out.
Contact Ace-Robbins today for more information on heating oil delivery or to sign up for automatic delivery.
