Heating oil is a common choice for keeping homes warm during the cold months. However, it can also be a significant expense, especially in regions with harsh winters. To help you keep your heating costs in check, we've put together a list of eight effective ways to save money on heating oil. By following these tips, you can stay warm and cozy without breaking the bank.
8 Effective Ways to Save Money on Heating Oil
1. Ensure proper maintenance
One of the most critical aspects of reducing heating oil costs is ensuring that your heating system is well-maintained. Annual maintenance by a professional technician can help improve the efficiency of your system. This includes cleaning your furnace or boiler, checking for leaks, and replacing worn-out parts. A well-maintained system operates more efficiently, using less fuel to produce the same amount of heat.
2. Don't let your tank run out of oil
By letting your oil levels get too low, you run the risk of losing heat -- often at the worst times. If you always seem to run out of oil at night or on weekends, you're likely paying extra for emergency delivery fees.
In addition to the inconvenience of being without heat, running your tank too low also poses the risk of allowing harmful residue from the bottom of the tank to mix with the new oil. This can negatively impact the purity of the oil, resulting in inefficient heating and potential oil contamination.
3. Ensure proper insulation in your home
A well-insulated home can significantly reduce the amount of heat that escapes, keeping your living spaces warmer and your heating oil consumption lower. Ensure that your attic, walls, and floors are properly insulated. Also, consider insulating your windows with heavy curtains or weather stripping to prevent drafts.
4. Check for gaps and cracks
Similarly, gaps and cracks in your home can be major contributors to heat loss. Regularly inspect your doors, windows, and walls for any openings that may be letting warm air escape and cold air enter. Seal these gaps and cracks with caulk or weather stripping to keep your home more airtight.
5. Adjust your thermostat when you aren't home
Heating an empty house is a waste of energy and money. When you're not at home, turn your thermostat down or, if possible, switch it off entirely. Programmable and smart thermostats allow you to set schedules that automatically adjust the temperature based on your daily routines, helping you save on heating oil without sacrificing comfort.
6. Fill up during the summer
Heating oil prices tend to be lower during the summer months when demand is lower. Consider filling up your oil tank in the summer when prices are more favorable. This can save you money compared to buying oil during the peak winter season when prices are likely to spike.
7. Switch to a programmable or smart thermostat
As mentioned earlier, upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat can be a smart investment. These devices allow you to set specific temperatures for different times of the day and week. You can lower the temperature when you're sleeping or away from home and have it automatically warm up before you return. This level of control can lead to substantial savings over time.
8. Upgrade your heating system
If your heating system is old and inefficient, it may be worthwhile to invest in a newer, more energy-efficient model. While the initial cost of upgrading may be high, modern heating systems are designed to be much more efficient and will lead to long-term savings on heating oil. Be sure to research and choose a system that is the right size and type for your home's heating needs.
Heating oil costs can add up quickly during the winter months, but by implementing these strategies, you can stay warm and comfortable while keeping more money in your wallet.
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.
