As you would expect, ice and snow can turn an already tough job into a potentially hazardous one for heating oil delivery drivers. And it’s not just driving along slick New Jersey roads. Walking with a heavy hose over slippery surfaces can risk their well-being as well. Sometimes, heating oil delivery drivers have been injured when they’ve lost their balance on icy sidewalks and other walking paths. With that said, here are a few tips to make life easier for your delivery driver.
To make winter deliveries easier and stress-free, ask your New Jersey heating oil company if they offer automatic delivery service. They will use your past heating fuel usage and current weather conditions to know when to schedule a delivery before you run low. This ends the work and worry of managing your heating oil supply on your own.
But if you still prefer to call for heating oil, you need to give your heating oil company extra time when conditions are harsh. It’s best to call for more fuel when your heating oil tank falls to the ¼ mark.
Remember that when you get a heating oil delivery, you’re getting a heating fuel for your home that has a remarkable safety record because it is nonflammable.
For further peace of mind, modern heating oil tanks have been designed to be virtually leak-proof. Whether your heating oil storage tank is in your basement or outside your home, the tanks being installed today are designed with corrosion-resistant materials.
Making it easier to get heating oil deliveries during winter is important. But you shouldn’t forget about paying attention to your heating system during the cold months.
First, make sure you keep the area around your heating system as clean and clutter-free as possible. Never store anything flammable, like paint or old newspapers, anywhere near your system.
If you have a heating oil furnace, check the air filter at least once during the heating season and clean/change it if it looks dirty. A dirty filter compromises efficiency and if it becomes badly clogged with dust and other debris, can force your system to shut down. If you see that the filter’s surface is gray and covered in dust buildup, you should go ahead and change/clean it. Another sign of a dirty filter is seeing more dust circulating around your home when the furnace is running.
If you have a steam boiler, check the water gauge periodically. Low water levels are a leading cause for boiler shutdowns. Steam boilers should also be “flushed” when the water in the gauge looks rusty.
If you have a hot water boiler, make sure the water level of the boiler reads half-full. The boiler’s automatic filling system, controlled by the pressure-reducing valve, should keep the proper water level at 12 to 15 psi of pressure. If there isn’t a pressure-reducing valve, manually feed the boiler by opening the water feed valve until the boiler pressure reaches 12 psi.
If you’re concerned that your heating oil system is not up to the task of getting you through winter, reach out to your New Jersey heating oil company to learn about your heating oil system replacement options. Your heating oil dealer may also be able to help you qualify for heating oil equipment rebates and other incentives.