Why You Should Schedule A Heating Oil Delivery After Heating Season

Late May / early June may not seem like the most sensible time to schedule a heating oil delivery here in Sullivan County –  but if your oil tank is less than half full, it might just be the best thing you can do for your home heating system.

Problems caused by a low fuel level

That’s because an empty steel heating oil tank is more vulnerable to an accumulation of condensation (water) on its interior walls than one that is more than half-filled with fuel.

Condensation creates two problems for your oil storage tank: first, it encourages bacteria to multiply within your fuel – over time, that bacteria will break down the oil, transforming it into a thick sludge that will jam your fuel lines and potentially cause heating equipment breakdowns that require costly heating repairs. Second, water – which is heavier than oil – will sink to the bottom of your oil tank where it will speed corrosion, causing leaks and a possible tank failure that you won’t see coming until it’s too late.

The bottom line here: Water is bad for your heating oil storage tank, and one of the easiest ways to reduce the likelihood of it is to keep it at least half full during the offseason. Filling your tank with oil now could be a good way to save some money, too, since heating oil prices in NY are often at their lowest during periods when demand for fuel is minimal.

Need an offseason heating oil delivery in Sullivan County, NY, or in nearby northern Orange County and eastern Ulster counties? Contact us and become a Black Bear customer today. If you’re an existing Black Bear customer, why not place your order online?

Please note: If your oil tank is 25 years or older, it could be time to replace it. The good news is that you may be eligible for a $250 rebate through the Upgrade & Save Hudson Valley Energy Efficiency and Safety Rebate Program when you install a new aboveground oil storage tank. Rebates are available on a first come, first served basis while funds remain – contact us for details.

Please note: At Black Bear, your safety and comfort are always our priority. Please see our COVID-19 Service Update Page to learn more about how we are working to keep your family and our crew safe and your propane and heating oil deliveries coming during this challenging time.