In the current economic climate, many of us are looking to cut costs and save money, especially when it comes to heating our homes.
A heating oil tank is an efficient way to heat your home. But, if you believe that you’re using too much heating oil and don’t understand why, we can help.
We’ve created a helpful guide looking at how you can make your heating oil last longer and understand why you’re using so much heating oil.
Why Am I Using So Much Heating Oil?
The amount of heating oil you use depends on a number of different factors, including the temperature outside, where you live and the demands of your household. If you’re using more heating oil than usual, it could be for one of the following reasons:
Poor insulation
If your home is not insulated sufficiently, it could cause you to use excessive amounts of fuel. Drafts are common in both new and older homes and it’s important that you address any issues with poor insulation. You can do this by ensuring that heat isn’t escaping through windows, gaps around doors, and improperly insulated electrical outlets.
Extreme weather conditions
During the winter months, many households use more heating oil than they would do during the summer months. Colder weather means many of us are spending longer indoors and of course, want our homes to be comfortable, warm, and snug.
Your oil tank
Many people do not realise that, if their thermostat is set too high, it could end up impacting their heating oil usage. Equally, if you have an inefficient heating system, this can also burn through heating oil quickly and therefore increase your oil consumption.
The size of your oil tank will also determine how often the heating oil in your tank needs to be topped up. Larger tanks can hold more oil so are less likely to require frequent refills than smaller alternatives.
How long does heating oil last?
On average, heating oil in a residential tank will last between 18 and 24 months. To ensure your home continues to be warmed efficiently, your oil tank requires regular maintenance to check the oil is clean and flows.
However, the length of time oil lasts in the tank is determined by numerous factors and personal lifestyle choices. Find out more about how long heating oil should last.
How much heating oil do I need?
When it comes to how much heating oil you need, it’s difficult to give a specific amount as it depends on a range of factors, including:
- The size of your home
- The age of your home
- The heating requirements for your household
- The insulation quality of your home
- How long the heating is on each day, and in which rooms
- The quality of your fuel
- The efficiency of your boiler
- The condition of your tank.
To give you an insight, based on average heating energy consumption, a UK household uses 21,000 kWh of energy each year. This equals approximately 2,000 litres of heating oil. Domestic heating oil tanks typically range from 1,000 litres to 2,500 litres, meaning households usually have to order 3 or 4 times a year to ensure they have enough oil.
How can I reduce the amount of heating oil I use?
If you’re looking to reduce the amount of heating oil you use, there are various changes you can make to reduce your heating oil usage, including:
- Adjust the thermostats or the valves on your radiators so that living areas are 20°C and bedrooms are 16°C
- Ensure all potential sources of draughts are sealed off
- Use a humidifier if the air in your house is dry
- Make sure the heat vents and the radiators are free of obstructions
- Keep all internal doors closed
- Invest in burner maintenance for optimum performance
- Premium fuels can improve the efficiency of your boiler therefore using less fuel
- Open curtains and blinds during the day to let the sun in
- Invest in an energy-efficient burner.
Is my heating oil tank leaking?
If you have noticed that you’re using more heating oil than usual, it could be a sign that your heating oil tank is leaking. However, often heating oil tanks leak steadily so it’s not always noticeable.
One of the first signs that your oil tank is leaking is a distinct smell in the area, which will also affect the smell of your soil. If you suspect a leak, one of the first things you should do is investigate this smell further by digging around your oil tank.
If you discover that the smell gets stronger, address the leak straight away by either dealing with the problem yourself or seeking the relevant help.
Find out more about heating oil tank maintenance and prevent leaks before they happen.
Save money on your heating oil
Despite soaring energy prices, it’s crucially important that, during the winter months, you are able to keep your home or business warm and comfortable.
And there are lots of ways that you can conserve your heating oil and save money on your bills, including:
- Buy your heating oil in bulk
- Use a local supplier
- Stay in tune with the cost of heating oil
- Take advantage of payment plans with your heating oil supplier
- Insulate your home
- Service your boiler.
If you have any questions about home heating oil and how to make your heating oil last longer, please get in touch – our experts will be more than happy to help!
Contact Us Now
Join our community of homeowners who are maximising their oil efficiency and reducing waste. With our simple yet effective strategies, you’ll enjoy cozy warmth while stretching your oil supply further than ever before. Discover how small changes in your home’s heating habits can yield big savings.
From smart thermostat usage to insulation upgrades, we’ve got you covered. Take the first step towards a more cost-effective and sustainable heating solution. Get in touch with our team today by calling 01829700120 and get a free online quote here.