Home heating is your lifeline during the daunting winter months. You cannot imagine life without heating because it keeps your place warm and ensures comfort for your loved ones. Even as you take all the measures to ramp up the system before the chilly weather sets in, things can go wrong at some point. Many homeowners encounter heating oil shortages because they get lazy or forgetful. Thankfully, you can find reliable suppliers who offer emergency heating oil delivery. But you must stay one step ahead and pay attention to the signs indicating your tank is almost empty. Here are the ones you must look out for.
Your heater turns off unexpectedly
The worst thing you may have to deal with is a heater turning off unexpectedly. It is easy to be overwhelmed when you see the oil tank gauge as empty. Your living space can get freezing cold within minutes, and there can be nothing worse. Ideally, you should choose a heating oil supplier that has an emergency refill facility. You can order replenishment right away and get your system up and running as soon as possible.
The heating system fails to warm up as usual
At times, your heating system does not shut down completely, but it fails to warm up as usual. It is a warning sign you shouldn’t overlook, even if things do not look as serious as they are. Consider it an indication that your oil tank is almost empty. Heating is compromised when sludge near the bottom clogs the supply line. It affects the efficiency of the heater and can even damage it if it gets blocked.
Oil tank gauge reads one-fourth
Your oil tank level reaching 25% of its capacity is another danger sign you shouldn’t ignore. It means you should replenish at the earliest. If you have no idea about reading the gauge, you can get the facts from a local supplier to ensure regular updates on tank levels. It makes sense to check the gauge regularly because a timely refill can save you from the stress of a freezing home.
Weird odors
Another sign of an impending heating oil emergency is a strange odor coming from your heater. It usually happens due to the sludge clogging the spray nozzle. Also, you may experience a diesel-like odor when the remaining fuel in the tank does not burn properly or completely. It is time to check the tank level right away and order a refill if below the one-fourth mark.
Unusual sounds
Like strange odors, unusual sounds from the heating system are also a reason to worry. You may hear a banging noise when you start the heater. It could also roar louder than usual while running. These sounds are caused by the fuel line pulling the air due to the lack of oil. Additionally, the pressure on the walls of the heater increases as the flame becomes stronger, and it causes banging sounds.
Final words
Homeowners need to be extra conscious about these signs because timely refueling can save the day. At the same time, you must find a provider that provides emergency refills because things go wrong despite the best efforts.
