The amount of heating oil you need depends on your home, tank size, boiler, insulation and how often you use your heating. There is no single answer for every property, but checking your tank level regularly will help you understand your normal usage.
Most domestic heating oil orders are based on how much space is available in the tank.
What Affects Heating Oil Usage?
You may use more heating oil if:
- Your home is large
- The weather is very cold
- Your insulation is poor
- Your boiler is older
- You use heating throughout the day
- You use oil for both heating and hot water
- Your home has draughts or older windows
- You have high ceilings or large rooms
Smaller, well-insulated homes usually use less heating oil.
How Do I Check How Much Oil I Have?
Most heating oil tanks have a gauge. This may be:
- A sight gauge
- A clock-style gauge
- A digital monitor
- A smart oil monitor
Check your gauge before ordering. This helps you work out how much space is left in your tank.
How Much Should I Order?
Before placing an order, check:
- Your tank capacity
- Your current oil level
- The minimum delivery amount
- How much space is available
- Whether your tank is safe to fill
Common domestic orders are often around 500 to 1,000 litres, but this depends on your tank and usage.
Avoid Overfilling Your Tank
Do not order more oil than your tank can safely hold. Overfilling can cause spills, delays and safety issues.
If you are unsure, give your supplier your tank size and current level. They can help estimate a suitable order amount.
How Can I Make Heating Oil Last Longer?
You can reduce oil usage by:
- Servicing your boiler annually
- Improving insulation
- Using heating controls properly
- Reducing draughts
- Turning heating down in unused rooms
- Checking your tank and boiler for issues
Need Help Working Out Your Order?
Barton Petroleum can help you estimate how much heating oil you may need and arrange a suitable delivery for your home.