The length of time a tank of heating oil lasts can vary based on several factors, including the size of the tank, the efficiency of the heating system, and the outdoor temperature.
The lifespan of a heating oil tank varies based on usage and capacity. On average, a 275-gallon tank can last around 38-40 days during the coldest months if you use 3-4 gallons daily. However, individual consumption patterns and factors can influence the actual duration.
Curious to know more about how long a heating oil tank lasts and the factors that influence its duration? Read on to find out!
Different factors affect how long your heating tank last.
The following are some of the main causes of your home’s heating oil consumption:
- How big your house is
- the duration of the winter months
- How chilly it can get there
- How well-insulated your house is, what materials it’s composed of, and what temperature do you have it set at
- how many fuel-oil-powered appliances there are
- how many people reside in your house
- The cost of heating oil per gallon
Heating Oil Usage & Temperature
Oil tanks come in a variety of sizes, with a typical volume of 275 gallons. Most households will require 2 gallons of heating oil per day to remain warm in locations where the temperature drops to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Accordingly, a full tank may provide households for 4.5 months or more before running dry. This ought to be adequate for the entire winter.
The following charts can be used to calculate how much heating oil you will need each day after you know the size of your home. You can determine how long your oil tank will last by using the following charts. But keep in mind that you don’t want to run out of fuel totally! To avoid running out of heating oil, always order it when your tank is about 1/4 full.
| Approximate Gallons /Day | Average Daily Outside Temperature (°C) | ||||
| Sq. ft of Area | -12 | -7 | -1 | 4 | 10 |
| 1500 | 4.9 | 4.0 | 3.1 | 2.2 | 1.3 |
| 2500 | 8.1 | 6.7 | 5.2 | 3.7 | 2.2 |
| 3500 | 11.4 | 9.3 | 7.3 | 5.2 | 3.1 |
| 4500 | 14.7 | 12.0 | 9.3 | 6.7 | 4.0 |
| 5500 | 17.9 | 14.7 | 11.4 | 8.1 | 4.9 |
Estimates for a mid-sized home in a moderately cold region
Here are some estimates of how long heating oil tanks of various capacities may last in a region with the coldest temperature reaching -7 C in the coldest month.
| Heating tank capacities in gallons | Days it should last |
| 275 | 38-40 |
| 330 | 46-49 |
| 500 | 70-75 |
| 550 | 76-82 |
| 100 | 142-150 |
Effect of efficiency of heating system
The efficiency of a heating system can significantly impact how long a tank of heating oil lasts. Here are some estimates of how long a tank of heating oil may last based on the efficiency of the heating system:
- Older, less efficient heating system: If you have an older heating system that is less efficient, you may use more oil than with a newer, more efficient system. A tank of heating oil could last around 25-30 days during the coldest months of the year if using an average of 3-4 gallons of oil per day.
- Newer, more efficient heating system: If you have a newer, more efficient heating system, you may use less oil than with an older system. A tank of heating oil could last around 35-45 days during the coldest months of the year if using an average of 3-4 gallons of oil per day.
It’s important to note that these estimates are just rough guidelines, and the actual amount of heating oil used can vary based on various factors such as the size of the tank, insulation of the house, and outdoor temperature. It’s also important to keep track of oil consumption and schedule regular maintenance for the heating system to ensure it is functioning efficiently and safely.
When to check the oil in your heating tank and place an order
The last thing you want is to run out of heating oil in the middle of winter and have to wake up in a house that is bitterly chilly. It is recommended that you check the level every week, or at least every two weeks during the winter, with an antique float gauge in your tank. Create a reminder on your smartphone to check the tank on a regular basis. Alternatively, you may mount a Smart Oil Gauge on your tank and easily check the amount of your heating oil using a smartphone.
You must be careful not to let your tank run entirely dry, much as with an automobile. This might result in sludge being sucked into the pipes and clogging the system in addition to causing your hob to shut down. As a result, ordering heating oil while your tank is just 1/4 full is strongly advised.
Can Heating Oil Deteriorate?
As long as the oil runs through the system without pollutants during the months while your oil tank is continuously in operation, the oil should be in good condition. The oil should stay in good condition for the five to six months that the tank is idle after you switch off your heating system for the spring and summer. The old oil and any fresh oil you put in the tank should function flawlessly once the heater is turned back on in late September. Oil should generally last 18 to 24 months.
If pollutants enter the system and taint the oil’s characteristics, the oil might become rancid. For instance, rust and metal traces in the oil will alter its viscosity and make it more challenging for the oil to circulate through the heating system. If the issue is left unattended, the poor oil can reduce system performance and push moving metal parts to grind against one another, which can eventually lead to corrosion. It is recommended to get your tank cleaned every few years to avoid this from happening.
How to Extend the Life of Your Home Heating Oil
Can you extend the lifespan of heating oil? Undoubtedly, there are a few things you can do to increase the lifespan of your heating oil.
The Ideal Supplements
When the tank is filled with heating oil, your local, reliable provider will include the necessary additives. The oil is stabilized as a result, and its effectiveness is increased to two years.
When the oil tank is filled, these additives must be utilized. If added later, they won’t be nearly as useful.
The Tank Is Well Maintained
The most you can do if you reside in a home with an existing tank is to keep it clean and well-maintained. Some owners of outdated tanks are considering replacing them. When buying a secondhand tank, it is crucial to understand exactly how it was utilized in the past. Never purchase a tank that has previously stored water, oil, or even petrol. Don’t buy it if you aren’t certain.
Tanks will rust and possibly even leak over time. You must get it checked to ensure that nothing is entering the tank to contaminate the oil and that no oil is pouring out.
Final Words
Nobody wants to experience a gasoline shortage in the dead of winter. You can determine your daily heating oil requirements by looking at elements like home size, local temperatures, and historical data. You may also contact nearby heating oil providers directly to obtain their expert estimations.