Winter Prep Tips to Reduce Problems
When winter storms roll through Wisconsin, heating oil delivery drivers are out there braving the elements so you can stay warm and comfortable indoors. These unsung heroes travel long distances in snow, ice, and freezing winds to make sure homes like yours have the fuel they need. But winter weather can make their already tough job downright dangerous.
Icy sidewalks and slippery driveways don’t just slow down deliveries—they can cause serious injuries if a driver slips while hauling a heavy delivery hose. That’s why one of the most important things you can do before your next delivery is to clear a safe path to your fill pipe or aboveground tank.
After a snow or ice storm, take a few minutes to shovel and salt the area leading to your fill pipe. If your tank is outdoors, make sure there’s an open, visible path for your driver to reach it safely. And don’t forget your driveway—fuel trucks are large vehicles that require plenty of space to maneuver. Your driveway should be clear of snow, ice, and any obstacles, with enough width for an emergency vehicle—like an ambulance—to pass through.
It’s worth noting that safety codes prohibit heating oil drivers from trying deliveries on dangerously icy or blocked driveways. A little preparation on your part keeps them safe and ensures your delivery happens without delays.
How to Avoid Running Out of Oil
Few things are more stressful than running out of heating oil during a Wisconsin cold snap. Fortunately, avoiding this situation is simple with a little planning.
The easiest solution is to ask your heating oil company about automatic delivery service. With automatic delivery, you don’t have to keep track of your fuel levels or call for refills. Your supplier uses a combination of your past usage data and real-time weather patterns to calculate when you’ll need your next delivery. That means you’ll always have enough fuel on hand and one less thing to worry about during winter.
If you prefer to manage deliveries yourself, just remember to call early, especially when snow and ice make travel difficult. Fuel companies often have longer delivery times during harsh weather. As a rule of thumb, order more fuel when your tank is about one-quarter full. This gives your supplier enough time to schedule a delivery before you run out.
Enjoy a Safe and Reliable Home Heating Fuel
Every time you fill your tank, you’re bringing home one of the safest and most reliable heating fuels available. Heating oil has an exceptional safety record—it’s nonflammable in its liquid state, meaning it won’t ignite unless it’s vaporized and heated to 140°F or higher.
Modern heating oil storage tanks have also come a long way. Today’s models are made with corrosion-resistant materials and are designed to be virtually leak-proof. Whether your tank is in your basement, garage, or outside your home, you can relax knowing it’s built for durability and safety.
Self-Maintenance Tips for a Trouble-Free Heating Season
Keeping your heating system in good shape not only helps you stay warm but also ensures your fuel is being used efficiently. Here are simple ways to maintain your system during the winter months:
- Keep the area around your system clean. Don’t store anything flammable—like paint cans, boxes, or old newspapers—near your furnace or boiler. Clutter can block airflow and pose a fire risk.
- Check your air filter regularly. If you have a heating oil furnace, inspect the air filter every couple of months. A dirty filter reduces efficiency and can even cause your system to shut down. If it looks gray, dusty, or clogged, it’s time to replace it.
- Keep pressure in check. If you have a hot water boiler, the pressure gauge should be between 12 and 15 psi. If your boiler doesn’t have an automatic fill system, you may need to manually add water until it reaches the correct level.
If your system is older or struggling to keep up, this might be the perfect time to explore a heating oil system upgrade. Newer models are far more efficient and can save you money on fuel costs all season long. Your heating oil provider can help you find the right replacement and may even help you qualify for rebates or other incentives.
Winters in Wisconsin can be unpredictable, but your home comfort doesn’t have to be. By clearing paths for your delivery driver, planning for fuel deliveries, and maintaining your heating system, you’ll make the season safer and more comfortable for everyone.