Winter Oil Heating Tips

Here are a few tips on preparing for winter that will give you peace of mind, save a few dollars and help keep your home and family warm and cozy.

Arrange for Automatic Delivery From Your Full-Service Oilheat Company
Automatic delivery means your Oilheat dealer puts you on a delivery schedule so you'll never run out of fuel during the cold winter months. The dealer determines your schedule by looking at recent temperatures, measured in heating degree days, and at your historical fuel consumption.

Consider a Price Protection Plan
Many dealers now offer oil buying plans that lock in or cap the price of oil for the entire heating season. If there is volatility in world energy markets during the winter, these types of programs can save you money. For tips on oil buying plans visit the state energy office website.

Turn Down Your Thermostat
You can save about 10 percent on your heating bills if you turn down your thermostat by 10 degrees for eight hours a day. You can turn it down during the day, while you're at work, or overnight, while you sleep.

Don't Block the Heat
For hot water systems, move furniture and draperies away from radiators so heat can enter your room and circulate throughout the house.

Vacuum Warm Air Registers
If you have a warm air heating system, make sure you vacuum the air registers on a regular basis and make sure they are not blocked by carpets or furniture.

Let the Sun Shine in
During the day, you can get the most warmth out the winter sun by opening the shades, blinds or drapes on your south-facing windows.

Not Too Late to Insulate
Insulate areas through which heat is lost. Add insulation to your unfinished attic. Put insulation between the floor joists and against the walls in your unfinished basement. Also, feel for air leaks around windows, bathtubs, fireplaces and electrical outlets. Caulk small leaks. Put plastic over old windows and begin budgeting the cost to replace such windows.

Thank you for choosing Oilheat. No other heating fuel matches the economy, efficiency and safety of Oilheat. Plus, the full-service members of the Massachusetts Oilheat Council provide outstanding service and dependability.