Warning Signs of a Heating Oil Shortage Before the Winter Cold
Is your home not warming up as quickly as it used to? You may be concerned about being without heating oil on some cold Pennsylvania nights. Or perhaps you would like to put an end to the tank running dry before it is too late.
We are Marshall Services, a third-generation family business that has put in the work to keep families in Southeast Pennsylvania warm since 1945. We understand the stress of a cold house. Should you require our assistance in a hurry, (484) 991-4884 is the number to have on hand.
Homeowners are all too familiar with the problem of running out of heating oil in winter. The rub is that there are usually warning signs if one looks for them. With a little forethought you can have your tank refilled and be none the wiser when the temperature takes a turn for the worse.
The Case for Monitoring Your Oil Level
More than just fuel for the furnace, heating oil is what ensures your pipes do not freeze and your home is a safe place to be through the worst of the season. Once you have run out you will have more than a chilly house to contend with; the system could need to be bled of air or cleaned before it will cooperate again. For that reason we make a point of watching for the following as the season comes on.
Red Flags to Watch For
Some things around the house will tell you your supply is low:
- A gauge at or under the one-quarter mark is the surest indication to put in for a delivery.
- It is taking your furnace longer to get to the desired temperature.
- Unusual sputtering or gurgling from the heating system.
- The thermostat says one thing but the rooms are colder.
- An odor of oil, something that occurs when the tank is close to empty and pulling in sediment.
- No change in usage but your heating bill has gone up.
Any of these warrant an immediate look at your tank. Our people will be glad to show you how to read the gauge if you are uncertain.
Do Not Let It Run Dry
It is tempting to eke out every drop for the sake of saving a few dollars, but we would call that a mistake. A dry tank will let the rust and dirt from the bottom into your fuel lines and clog things up, necessitating a service call in addition to the delivery. And it is bound to be on the coldest day of the year when everyone else is on the phone and demand is at a peak.
Reorder at the one-quarter level and you will have a cushion and the sediment will stay put.
Put an End to the Guesswork
You are not alone in finding it a bother to check the gauge every other day. That is the thinking behind our heating oil delivery service in all of Southeast Pennsylvania, Skippack and Blue Bell to West Chester and Doylestown. We have a Heating Oil Price Protection Plan for those wanting to take the uncertainty out of their winter budget, and maintenance plans for the homeowner intent on averting repairs. GreenSky provides financing for larger projects and we have some good coupons in effect at present so inquire as to what you might save.
As a fully licensed and insured company we are on call 24/7 for emergencies. There is no waiting till morning if your system gives out on a frigid night, just a call to (484) 991-4884.
Make Marshall Services Part of Your Winter
One does not wait for winter in this part of Pennsylvania and neither should you. Wait until after your house has gone cold to check your oil and you will regret it. We are here for you if you see any of the signs mentioned or want the assurance of a dependable schedule.
Give us a ring at (484) 991-4884 to set up a delivery, discuss the Price Protection Plan or have your questions answered on how to keep the warmth in your home for the duration of the season.