If you have an oil furnace, it can be helpful to learn now what you need to do to get the furnace ready to start up once it gets cold outside. This is because you should never simply turn it on and expect heat. Instead, there are things you should do before you turn it on, three of which are listed below. This will ensure that you and your family stay warm this winter.

Hire Oil Delivery Service

One of the most important things you can do is to set up an oil delivery service. This will ensure that you keep enough oil throughout the winter, so you won't have to ever worry about running out. You should find a variety of companies in your area that offer this service. If you are having a hard time finding one, contact an HVAC technician, and they can suggest a good oil delivery service to you.

The service you hire will help you determine how often you will need to have oil delivered. The service will also help you know where to store oil until you are ready to use it.

Make Sure The Furnace Has Enough Oil

Check the oil in the furnace to ensure there is enough. If there is not, then add more oil before you turn the furnace on. You should also consider adding a fuel additive to the oil. Your HVAC technician can tell you the type of fuel additive you can use, as well as how much to use for your furnace. A fuel additive is beneficial as it can prevent sludge from forming.

Not having enough oil can cause the furnace to burn out, which will lead to expensive repairs. If you have hardly any oil in the furnace at all, you may have a leak. In a case like this, contact a professional to help you.

Change the Filter

You also need to change the air filter on the furnace, as well as test the burner to ensure it is working properly. An air filter is important, because if the one currently on the furnace is clogged with dirt and debris, air will not flow through the air filter properly. This can affect the temperature inside your home. Oil also cannot burn if it does not have oxygen. This is also known as combustion. Without it, your furnace will not run properly, and your home will not be heated.

Your HVAC technician can give you much more information about your oil furnace.