Running low on heating oil can quickly turn into a stressful situation — especially during a Connecticut winter. One of the most common questions homeowners ask is “When should I refill my heating oil tank?” The short answer: before it gets too low. Knowing the right time to schedule a refill can help you avoid emergency calls, higher costs, and uncomfortable surprises.
Don’t Wait Until the Tank Is Empty
A common mistake is waiting until the tank is nearly empty before calling for delivery. Most heating oil professionals recommend refilling when your tank reaches ¼ full. This gives you enough buffer time to schedule delivery — even during busy cold snaps — and reduces the risk of running out entirely.
Letting your tank run dry can also introduce air and sediment into your system, which may lead to burner issues or costly service calls.
Seasonal Factors Matter
Heating oil usage increases significantly during colder months. In Connecticut, consumption typically spikes from late fall through early spring, especially during prolonged cold spells. Windy weather and below-freezing temperatures can cause oil levels to drop faster than expected.
Checking your tank more frequently during winter helps prevent unexpected shortages — particularly before weekends, holidays, or storms when deliveries may be limited.
Automatic vs. Will-Call Delivery
If remembering to check your tank isn’t ideal, automatic delivery can remove the guesswork. With automatic delivery, your provider monitors usage patterns and schedules refills before your tank runs low. Will-call delivery works well for homeowners who prefer to track their own usage — but timing is critical.
Avoid Panic Refills
Last-minute or emergency heating oil deliveries can be stressful and may come with limited scheduling availability during peak season. Planning ahead keeps your home warm and your experience hassle-free.
At Incredible Oil, we help Connecticut homeowners stay ahead of winter with reliable heating oil delivery and flexible service options. If you’re unsure about your tank level or want help choosing the right delivery plan, our team is here to help.
Don’t wait for an empty tank — refill early and stay warm all season long.
