Adapting Oil Storage for a Sustainable Future

With energy bills rising, we’re all trying to find ways to keep warm and save money where we can. For those homes using domestic heating oil tanks, making the most of your heating oil not only saves money in the long run, but you also reduce your impact on the environment and avoid the risk of your heating cutting out in the middle of winter. This article pulls together 7 easy ways you can make your domestic heating oil last longer.

Ways To Make Your Heating Oil Last Longer

house being warmed using a heating oil tank

1. Adjust the thermostat in each room

Lowering your thermostat by one degree can save up to 10% on your energy bills and uses less of your heating oil. Consider the function of each room in your house: how often is it in use, when is it in use and by how many? If you have empty rooms, you can turn the radiator valves down to avoid wasted heat. Or use a timer to heat your rooms at certain times throughout the day.

2. Close in the heat

By simply closing your doors you help capture and contain the heat in that room. You should also keep your curtains open during the day; allowing sunlight to shine through and warm your home. Additionally, remove any furniture blocking your radiators that is preventing heat from reaching the rest of the room.

3. Layer up

Now is the time to invest in plenty of fluffy socks, suitable slippers, cosy jumpers and fluffy blankets. If you have tiled or wooden floors, lay down rugs or make sure you’re wearing warm socks and slippers to keep your feet warm.

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4. Check your oil tank

Along with your boiler, make sure you regularly check your oil tank too. Our blog on the benefits of oil tank maintenance goes into more detail, but by consistently monitoring the condition of your tank you can spot any signs of damage such as bulges, cracks or leaks and resolve them before they become a bigger issue.

5. Try a heating oil monitor

A heating oil monitor allows you to review and track your oil usage throughout your home. You can determine the times when your use is highest as well as being able to track where heat is wasted and savings can be made.

6. Get your boiler serviced

When you’re fuelling your home with heating oil, you need a boiler that can keep up with the constant demand. For optimum efficiency, ensure your boiler is serviced annually by a qualified OFTEC engineer. They’ll be able to highlight any issues before they become serious problems and result in emergency call-outs.

7. Keep your tank secure

As the temperature drops, heating oil levels rise. Homeowners usually plan ahead in preparation for the colder weather and thieves are aware of this. Make sure your tank is safe and secure or consider a bunded oil tank for an additional layer of protection. Also, ensure your lid is secure to garden debris and water from getting in and contaminating your heating oil. Our blog on how to prevent water from contaminating your oil can provide more information.

How Oil Tanks Plus can help

If you’ve spotted any worrying signs on your oil tank or would like some further advice on how to make your heating oil last longer, then get in touch with our friendly team of experts.