Heating Oil Delivery: Frequently Asked Questions

Written on: November 7, 2022

AFC is Central Maine’s leader for dependable heating oil delivery!

heating oil supplier maine Whether you are new to using heating oil in your home, or have used it for decades, you may not know much about it.

AFC is here for you! We love teaching our customers about what keeps their home warm, safe, and comfortable. We’ve put together some common questions and their answers so you feel more informed about heating oil.

Is heating oil safe?

To be vaporized and combusted in your furnace or boiler, heating oil must reach a temperature of 140°F. Today’s double-walled heating oil tanks and built-in alarms prevent leaks and overfilling. AFC’s TANKShield tank insurance covers 100% of replacement costs in the event of a tank failure, along with removal and disposal costs.

Is heating oil affordable?

Heating oil is one of the most cost-effective energy sources for home heating. Today’s high-efficiency oil-fired heating systems are much more efficient than in years past, with some models boasting efficiencies over 95%. In addition, heating oil can get your home warm faster than any other energy source.

Is heating oil clean?

Today’s heating oil is much cleaner than the heating oil of a few decades ago. All heating oil sold in Maine meets the ultra-low sulfur standard (ULSHO), meaning that it must have 15 parts per million (PPM) or less sulfur content. Traditional No. 2 heating oil contains an average of 4,000 ppm.

More improvements are coming, including the addition of biodiesel blends, as part of the heating oil industry’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

How do I make sure I always have heating oil?

Automatic Delivery takes the guesswork out of getting your heating oil delivery. We employ sophisticated software that analyzes your past usage and current weather conditions to determine when you’ll need a delivery, then we schedule it. You never have to worry about running low on heating oil!

If you opt for Will-Call delivery for your heating oil, be sure to check your tank’s gauge regularly so you know when it is time to call us and request a refill. We recommend not letting the gauge fall below 25%. If you’re unsure how to read the tank gauge, here’s what to do.

On top of your heating oil tank, look for the transparent plastic tube with markings on it that resemble car fuel gauge numbers: F, ¾, ½, and so on. There is a red marker or a float inside the tube that informs you how much heating oil is in the tank.

How do I take care of my heating system?

Regular, professional maintenance is necessary for your home’s furnace or boiler so that it runs efficiently. Our annual tune-ups not only lower your energy bill but also help keep your equipment from malfunctioning. Our licensed and skilled technicians take the time to inspect and fix any current or potential problems before they can cause damage. With our Comfort Plans, you’ll not only get a tune-up for your furnace or boiler but also discounts on many parts and labor costs needed for repairs.

Ready for heating oil delivery you can rely on? Become an AFC customer today!