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Your heating oil plays an important role in your comfort throughout the year. When winter arrives, however, the cold weather may threaten the integrity of the fuel and cause it to freeze. At Andersen Oil Company of New London County, CT, the quality of your oil is just as important as providing excellent service. Here, the team shares five valuable tips to prevent it from freezing during wintertime.

How to Stop Your Heating Oil From Freezing

1. Use the Proper Insulation

Just like insulation can prevent your pipes from freezing, it can also protect your heating oil. Wrap a waterproof insulation blanket around the tank or use a cover to retain heat and avert the possibility of oil “shrinkage,” which occurs when it essentially congeals and ices over. Insulation creates a warm environment that allows the fuel to stay in liquid form.

2. Try an Indoor Installation

heating oilYou might consider installing your residential oil tank indoors. It won’t be exposed to the elements, and, thus, the oil won’t be at risk of freezing. It will also prevent the possibility of rusting due to moisture exposure.

3. Consider Oil Blends

Standard heating oil is reliable, but it freezes easily in low temperatures. Many home heating system professionals recommend using blended oil instead. The most common mix is kerosene and diesel, which has a lower freezing point.

4. Cover the Tank

If you can’t move your tank inside, consider creating some type of cover for the unit instead. One way to do this is to hire an expert to secure the fuel lines below ground. The soil acts as natural insulation for the lines, while a shelter of some kind keeps the tank from absorbing the cold and freezing the fuel inside.

5. Call a Professional

It’s a good idea to enlist the help of a professional if you’re concerned about the possibility of frozen oil. An expert can perform basic maintenance to make sure the tank is in good condition, since even a little bit of buildup inside could cause premature freezing and create major problems when the temperatures drop. They can also mix oils safely for you.

When it’s a matter of your comfort in cold weather, nothing matters more to the professionals at Andersen Oil Company. Turn to them for dependable heating oil delivery services. Visit their website, or call them at (860) 464-7628.

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