FAQs for Heating Oil Customers

Written on: April 17, 2023

Johnny Prescott makes having heating oil in your home easy!

Whether you are new to having a home kept warm with heating oil or a longtime heating oil customer, you may have some questions about it and how Johnny Prescott manages your heating oil delivery and service.

We’re here to help by answering some common questions.

Q: How much heating oil will I need during winter?

A: Your heating oil consumption is determined by a wide range of factors, including the outdoor temperature, your home’s size and insulation level, the performance and energy efficiency of your boiler or furnace , as well as your family’s temperature preferences.

As a general guideline, if outdoor temperatures remain at an average of 32° for 24 hours, the typical 2,500 square foot home will require approximately six to seven gallons of heating oil per day.

Q: What size heating oil tank does my home need?

A: The most common residential heating oil tank sizes are 275 and 330 gallons.

Q: How do I avoid running out of heating oil?

A: Johnny Prescott gives you complete peace of mind with our Automatic Delivery option for your heating oil delivery. We use the latest software that factors in your heating oil usage history, weather forecasts, and a tried-and-true calculation to accurately predict when you’ll need more heating oil. This data allows us to promptly schedule a heating oil delivery to your home before you run low.

If you prefer to use Will-Call for your heating oil delivery, the responsibility is on you to frequently check your heating oil tank gauge. We strongly urge our customers to not let the gauge fall below ¼ full before requesting a delivery.

Q: How do I read my heating oil tank gauge?

A: A clear glass or plastic tube is placed atop the oil tank, with a number scale that looks just like your car’s gas gauge – from F to ¾, ½ and ¼. When you observe a red marker or float on your fuel gauge, it is indicative of the remaining amount in the tank. If the float is at the bottom of the scale or unseen, then your gas tank is empty or almost there, and you need to contact us immediately for an emergency heating oil delivery.

To ensure that the gauge is functioning correctly, carefully take off the external casing and lightly push down on the float. If it returns to its original place, your gauge is in good condition. However, if not, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Johnny Prescott right away. You never want to risk guessing how much oil remains inside of your tank!

Q: How do I prepare for a heating oil delivery?

A: If our delivery drivers cannot access your driveway or your heating oil tank’s fill line, we will regretfully be unable to deliver your heating oil. Here are some things to do to prevent that and ensure that you always have the heating oil you need to keep your home warm and comfy.

• open gates on driveways or on fences between the driveway and your tank.
• clear snow and ice off your outdoor heating oil tank or fill line.
• after snow falls, clear a path at least one foot wide to your tank or oil fill line.
• mark the location of your underground tank with a high-visibility stake topped with a bright-colored ribbon or flag above any snow accumulation, so that your delivery driver can easily spot it.
• ensure that your driveway has been sanded and plowed enough to provide a secure pathway for the bulk trucks from your fuel company. Make sure it is wide enough for them to safely maneuver their way in and out.

Get the best heating oil delivery around! Become a Johnny Prescott customer today.