Why Heating Oil Remains a Popular Choice
Heating oil is a popular source of heating homes in the UK, especially in rural areas where properties may not be connected to the main gas network. If you use heating oil to heat your home, you’ve likely asked yourself: How long should my heating oil last?
The answer isn’t straightforward, as several factors can affect your usage. Let’s explore some of the key considerations.
1. Tank Size Matters
First up – the size of your oil tank. It goes without saying: the bigger your tank, the more oil it holds, and the longer it will last. If you’re looking to reduce the frequency of oil deliveries, upgrading to a larger tank could be a smart move.
2. Heating Usage and Local Climate
Another key factor is how often you use your heating. If you live in a colder region or experience particularly harsh winters, your oil will run down faster than in milder areas. For example, in Scotland, homes on the west coast tend to use less heating oil than those on the east due to the milder climate.
3. Efficiency of Your Heating System
Not all heating systems are created equal. Older systems may be inefficient, burning through more oil to produce the same heat as modern, energy-efficient models. While upgrading your system may require a higher upfront cost, it can result in long-term savings by reducing oil usage.
4. So, What’s the Average?
Considering all these factors, it’s difficult to give a definitive answer. However, a general guideline suggests that 1,000 litres of heating oil can last around six months for the average household. That said, your individual usage may vary significantly.
5. How Oilfast Can Help You Stay Topped Up
We know it can be stressful trying to manage your oil usage and budgeting for a full tank refill. That’s why Oilfast offers a Budget Payment Plan – our simple and hassle-free way to spread the cost of your heating oil. You’ll make monthly payments and, when used alongside our top-up fuel service, we’ll monitor your tank and refill it when needed – helping you avoid running dry and smoothing out the cost.
6. Tips to Make Your Oil Go Further
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how long heating oil should last, but you can take steps to improve efficiency, such as:
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Ensuring your home is well insulated
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Keeping heating at a consistent, reasonable temperature
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Closing doors and windows to retain warmth
Need Support?
For more information on how Oilfast can support you with heating oil solutions, call 03302 320 104.
