If you run out of heating oil, your boiler may stop working. This can leave you without heating and hot water until your tank is refilled and the system is working again.
Running out is common, especially in winter, but it is best to avoid it where possible.
What Happens When the Tank Is Empty?
When your tank runs empty, your boiler no longer has fuel to burn.
This may cause:
- No heating
- No hot water
- Boiler lockout
- Air in the fuel line
- The need for a system restart
- Possible extra engineer costs
Some boilers will not restart automatically after an oil delivery.
What Should I Do First?
If you think you have run out of oil:
- Check your tank gauge
- Check your heating controls
- Look for a boiler fault or lockout light
- Turn the heating off if needed
- Arrange a heating oil delivery
- Contact a heating engineer if the boiler will not restart
Do not keep pressing the boiler reset button.
Will My Boiler Work After a Delivery?
Sometimes the boiler will restart once oil has been delivered. In other cases, the system may need to be bled or reset by a qualified engineer.
This is more likely if air has entered the fuel line.
Can Running Out Damage My Boiler?
Running out once does not always cause damage, but it can lead to problems. Sludge or sediment from the bottom of the tank may be drawn into the fuel line, filter or boiler.
This can cause blockages and poor performance.
How Can I Avoid Running Out Again?
To reduce the risk:
- Check your tank level regularly
- Order when your tank is around a quarter full
- Monitor usage during winter
- Consider automatic top ups
- Keep delivery access clear
- Plan ahead before bad weather
Need Heating Oil Quickly?
Barton Petroleum can help arrange heating oil deliveries and advise what to do if your tank has run empty.