If something is failing or going amiss with your HVAC unit, chances are, your HVAC unit is letting you know something is not quite right. However, most of the cues come in the form of sounds that many of us may overlook. If you hear your HVAC unit grinding, squealing, screeching or squeaking, it is letting you know it needs help. I was unaware of these cues and overlooked them. It ended up costing me a lot of money in repairs. I want to make sure that does not happen to other people, so I made this website. I hope you learn how to interpret the noises your HVAC unit is making so you can get it the repairs it needs before you incur a costly repair, or worse, permanently ruin your unit for good.
Are you new to oil heating? If this is the first home you have owned with an oil furnace, you likely have some questions about fuel delivery. The following guide can help you prepare for the winter heating season and become accustomed to some of the necessities of oil heat.
Question #1: When Should You Order Oil?
The answer depends on the pricing offers from your local heating oil companies. In most regions, oil is less expensive before the winter heating season begins, since demand is lower.
Question #2: Are There Discount Programs?
Some companies offer lock-in pricing, which means you can lock in the lower summer price by scheduling your first delivery then. That means you won't be paying the steeper winter prices if you need a refill in December. Other companies may also offer reduced top-off services. This means they top off your tank monthly during winter. Often this service also comes with a pricing discount, since the oil company can save time and money by having all their customers on a route. Finally, some home fuel delivery companies also offer all-inclusive pricing packages that include both the fuel delivery and your annual furnace service.
Question #3: How Do You Know When You Need Oil?
Most oil tanks are equipped with a gauge that indicates the amount of oil in the tank. You can monitor the gauge and order oil when it begins to dip below ¼ to ½ of a tank. It's best to avoid emptying the tank, because this can disturb sediment in the bottom and clog the oil lines to the furnace.
If your tank doesn't have a working gauge, you can use a dipstick to check oil levels, just as you would in a car.
Question #4: Do You Have to Be Home For Delivery?
In most cases, you do not have to be home for delivery. If your oil tank is located inside, such as in a basement, the fill pipe is still usually located outside. This means the delivery driver can access and fill your tank without entering your home. The main exception is if you are on a plan that requires cash payment upon delivery. Then, you will need to make payment arrangements if you can't be home for the delivery.
Question #5: Are Any Preparations Necessary for Delivery?
You rarely need to do much to help the driver. Simply make sure access to the fill pipe is clear. This may mean shoveling snow from around the pipe and keeping a clear path to the fill area. Also, always keep the fill area clear of fallen leaves and debris.
For more information, contact a professional like Bay State Fuel Oil Inc.
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