Heating oil is a convenient and affordable option for many homeowners. It is very effective and burns hotter than natural gas or even electricity. Technology has made it environmentally friendly and with proper care and maintenance, an oil furnace can last up to three decades.
What about the oil itself? Can heating oil expire? The short answer is yes, it can. But there are several factors involved and it is seldom that homeowners end up with bad heating oil.
To make sure you have all the facts, read on for answers to the question, “How long does heating oil last?”
How Does an Oil Furnace Work?
The key element to an oil furnace is, of course, the oil. Unlike HVAC systems that depend on electricity, an oil furnace needs a steady supply of oil to operate.
The Tank
This involves having an oil tank on the property. Most homes have tanks buried underground several feet from the home’s foundation. It is not completely uncommon for them also to be above-ground.
The tank is filled as needed. The thermostat inside the home triggers the release of the oil. The furnace uses a fuel pump to draw the oil out of the tank and through a filter. It then goes into a burner chamber.
The Process
Once there, the oil turns into a fine mist and heats up in the chamber. Air pulled from inside the home moves across the chamber, heats up, and passes back into the house by the duct system.
As long as there is good oil in the tank, there is heat in the house. The key is knowing the heating oil shelf life.
How Long Does Heating Oil Last?
In most cases, heating oil will maintain its shelf life and efficiency between 18 to 24 months.
The good news there is that if you do not use all of it within one winter season, it will still be good to use after the summer months when it turns cold again.
There are certain conditions needed, however, to make sure the heating oil not only lasts that long but also produces the proper amount of heat.
What Damages Heating Oil?
The number one cause of oil degradation is bacteria. It is found in all oil and is a natural process. There is little to stop it but additives will slow down the process.
Water inside the tank will also break down the oil and make it go bad. It isn’t just the water either. Chemicals added to water and naturally occurring minerals stay in the tank after the water is removed.
Sludge and rust that form inside the tank will quickly contaminate the oil. It is vital for the lifespan of the oil and the heat inside your home that the oil tank is properly cleaned and maintained.
How Much Oil Do You Need?
The best way to make sure you don’t end up with a large unused portion of oil is to purchase the right amount of oil for your heating needs.
Unfortunately, there is not a clear formula for that. It depends on many variables.
Your Home
The age of your home and the condition of the insulation will factor in how much oil is needed to heat. A well-insulated home will reduce your oil usage.
You should also check on things like cracks in the eaves, shingles, and doorways. Having energy-efficient windows also helps reduce costs.
The Temperature
The temperature setting on the thermostat obviously also makes a difference. The warmer you want it inside, the more oil you will use. Smart thermostats are a great choice for programming temperatures at optimal times.
The temperature outside plays a part as well in how long the system has to run to keep you comfortable. The condition of the furnace affects the oil usage. That’s why it is important to have the oil furnace serviced regularly.
How to Extend Your Home Heating Oil Lifespan
Can you make heating oil last longer? There are definitely a few things you can do to extend the life of your heating oil.
The Right Additives
Your local reputable supplier of heating oil will provide the proper additives at the time the tank is filled. This stabilizes the oil and extends its efficiency to the two-year mark.
These additives must be used at the time the oil tank is filled. They are not nearly as effective if added later.
A Well Maintained Tank
If you live in a home with an existing tank, the most you can do is clean and take care of the one you have.
Some people with older tanks look to replace them. It is so important if purchasing a used tank to know exactly how it was previously used. You should never buy a tank that was used to store water, motor oil, or even gasoline. If you aren’t sure, don’t buy it.
Over time tanks will corrode and can even leak. You must have it inspected to make sure nothing is getting inside the tank to destroy the oil and also to make sure no oil is leaking out.
Order the Right Amount
Most oil suppliers have a minimum amount they require for delivery. Other than that, make sure you are not constantly ordering too much.
Utilize the fuel gauge to know when a re-order is necessary. The best time to order fuel is during the off-season. It is usually cheaper and there are more delivery time options.
Be careful not to try and save money by buying so much at one time. If you buy more than you can use before the shelf life runs out it will cost more to dispose of than the initial cost savings.
Simple Solutions for Heating Oil Longevity
No one wants to run out of heating oil during the cold winter months. It is good to be prepared. It is also important to know the answer to the question, “How long does heating oil last?”
With the right additives, a clean tank, and a well-maintained furnace, your heating oil will last and keep you comfortable and warm.
Here at Sperr’s Fuel, we pride ourselves on fast and reliable fuel delivery service. Contact us today to see how we can help you.