If you are moving into a house with oil heating, the system may feel unfamiliar at first. The good news is that oil heating is simple to manage once you know where the tank is, how to check the level and when to order more fuel.
Most oil-heated homes use kerosene, which is stored in an outdoor tank and used by the boiler to heat your home and hot water.
What Should You Check First?
When you move in, try to find out:
- Where the oil tank is located
- How much oil is currently in the tank
- What type of heating oil the property uses
- How to read the tank gauge
- Where the boiler is
- When the boiler was last serviced
- Whether the tank has been inspected recently
This information may be in documents from the previous owner, landlord or estate agent.
How Do I Check the Oil Level?
Most tanks have a gauge. This may be fitted to the tank or shown on a digital monitor inside the home.
Common gauges include:
- Sight gauges
- Clock-style gauges
- Digital tank monitors
- Smart oil monitors
Check the level as soon as you move in. If the tank is low, arrange a delivery before you run out.
When Should I Order Heating Oil?
Do not wait until the tank is almost empty. A good rule is to order when your tank reaches around a quarter full.
This gives you time to:
- Compare prices
- Arrange a suitable delivery date
- Avoid emergency delivery costs
- Prepare for bad weather
- Keep your heating running
What About the Boiler?
Your oil boiler should be serviced once a year by a qualified engineer. Ask when it was last serviced and keep a record for future maintenance.
A regular service can help improve safety, efficiency and reliability.
Moving Home Checklist
Before your first winter in the property, check:
- The oil level
- The tank condition
- The boiler service history
- Delivery access
- The supplier details
- Any signs of leaks, cracks or smells
Need Heating Oil for Your New Home?
Barton Petroleum can help you arrange a heating oil delivery and explain what you need to know when moving into an oil-heated property.