Once summer rolls around, the last thing on many homeowners' minds is their oil tank. It's easy to forget about it when the need for warmth seems so distant. However, maintaining a full fuel tank during the summer months is more than just a chore to check off your list; it's a smart decision with long-term benefits for your home and your wallet.
We all know not to let our oil tank get too low during the colder months -- running out of oil can be a major headache and lead to costly repairs. But what about summer? Even if you aren't using your oil heater for hot water throughout the year, it's still important to keep oil in your fuel tank. Let's go over four reasons why this is the case.
The Year-Round Importance of Keeping Your Home's Heating Oil Tank Full
Preventing corrosion
One of the often-overlooked dangers of leaving your heating oil tank partially empty during the summer is the risk of corrosion. When tanks are not filled to capacity, condensation can form on the interior walls. This moisture, combined with any residual water in the tank, creates a perfect environment for rust and corrosion. Over time, this corrosion can weaken the tank, leading to leaks and potentially costly damage to your property.Ensuring efficiency
A full tank of heating oil not only protects the tank itself but also helps maintain the efficiency of your heating system. When the tank is full, there is less air space for condensation to form. This means that when you do eventually fire up your heating system in the fall, it will be running at optimal efficiency, providing consistent heat without wasting fuel. Conversely, a partially empty tank can lead to inefficient heating and higher energy bills.
Avoiding price fluctuations
Heating oil prices fluctuate throughout the year, often peaking during the colder months when demand is highest. By keeping your tank full over the summer, you can avoid the risk of having to refill at a time when prices are at their highest. Additionally, purchasing oil during the off-season when demand is lower may allow you to take advantage of lower prices or discounts offered by oil suppliers.
Creating peace of mind
Perhaps the most significant benefit of keeping your home heating oil tank full over the summer is the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that your tank is ready and waiting for the colder months ahead means one less thing to worry about when the weather turns chilly. It also ensures that you won't be caught off guard by unexpected maintenance issues or fuel shortages when you need heat the most.
Conclusion
While it may be tempting to ignore your home heating oil tank during the summer months, doing so can have costly consequences. By keeping your oil tank full year-round, you can prevent corrosion, maintain efficiency, avoid price fluctuations, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home will stay warm when you need it most.
If you live in the Delaware Valley/Greater Philadelphia area and would like to find comfort within your home, visit our website or give us a call at 215 - 245 - 3200 to learn more.
