What to Do If Your Heating Oil Runs Out in the Middle of Winter

As winter sets in and temperatures drop, running out of heating oil can quickly become a stressful situation. Having reliable heating is essential for comfort and safety during the colder months, and running out of oil can leave you in a tough spot. If you’re in Wexford, Wicklow, or Carlow, Kenny Fuels is here to help you get back on track with quick and dependable heating oil deliveries, so you’re never left in the cold.

Stay Safe and Warm While You Wait for a Delivery

The first thing to do is to ensure you and your family are safe and warm. If the heating system has stopped working, your home can become uncomfortably cold very quickly. If you have alternative sources of heat, such as electric heaters or a fireplace, use them to maintain warmth while you wait for your oil delivery. If your heating system relies entirely on oil and you have no backup, consider bundling up in warm clothing and using blankets to preserve body heat. You can also block off areas of the house that are harder to heat, focusing on staying warm in the most used rooms.

Check Your Oil Tank and Delivery Information

Once you’ve taken steps to stay warm, check your oil tank. If your oil gauge is reading empty, confirm the tank is indeed out of oil. Sometimes the gauge may be faulty, and a quick inspection can clarify the situation. It’s also a good idea to double-check whether your oil supplier has scheduled a delivery. Many companies offer automatic refills based on usage patterns, but delays can sometimes occur. If you’re unsure about when your next delivery is scheduled, it’s worth calling your supplier to confirm and request an urgent delivery if necessary.

Contact Your Heating Oil Supplier

If you haven’t already reached out to your supplier, now’s the time to do so. Contact them immediately to arrange for an emergency delivery of oil. Keep in mind that depending on your location and the time of year, emergency deliveries may take longer or incur additional fees. Having a clear understanding of the estimated delivery time can help you plan your next steps.

Don’t Attempt to Refill the Tank Yourself

Refilling your heating oil tank should always be done by a professional. It’s dangerous and potentially illegal in many areas to attempt to fill the tank on your own. If you’re low on oil and need a top-up urgently, it’s best to leave it to your supplier. They have the necessary equipment to safely fill your tank without causing damage to your property or risk to your health.

Bleed Your Heating System After Delivery

Once your oil has been delivered and your tank refilled, your heating system may need to be “bled” to remove any air from the lines. Air in the system can cause the boiler or furnace to malfunction. If you’re unfamiliar with this process, it’s best to call a heating professional to assist. Many heating oil suppliers offer maintenance services and can help with this after an oil delivery.

Prevent Future Oil Shortages

After you’ve addressed the immediate issue, consider taking steps to avoid running out of oil again. Many suppliers offer a monitoring service where they track your usage and automatically schedule deliveries when your tank is low. This can be an ideal solution if you often forget to check your tank or are too busy to keep track of it. Additionally, keeping an eye on the weather and anticipating increased oil consumption during particularly cold spells can help you stay ahead of any shortages.

Consider Alternative Heating Solutions

Finally, while you’re addressing your heating oil needs, you may want to explore other long-term heating options. Depending on your location and home setup, alternative heating methods like electric heaters, wood stoves, or even solar power could be viable solutions. These alternatives might not only help in emergency situations but also contribute to lowering energy costs in the future.

Running out of heating oil during winter can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to leave you in the cold for long. By acting swiftly, staying warm, and ensuring your system is properly maintained, you can restore comfort to your home quickly. To prevent future shortages, consider taking advantage of automatic delivery services that track your usage and ensure timely deliveries. If you’re in Wexford, Wicklow, or Carlow, Kenny Fuels is here to provide fast, reliable heating oil deliveries when you need them most. Feel free to call us today at (053) 937 2765 or visit kennyfuels.ie to arrange your next delivery. We’re here to help you stay warm all winter long.