Furnace oil remains a reliable, efficient way to heat many homes across Toronto and the GTA—especially older properties or rural edges without natural gas lines. If your home uses heating oil, a little planning goes a long way: clean storage, timely deliveries, and basic maintenance can keep your system running safely and efficiently all season.
Below is a simple guide to help you stay prepared—without waiting for the first cold snap.
What exactly is furnace oil?
Often called home heating oil (No. 2 fuel oil), furnace oil is designed for oil-fired furnaces and boilers. It burns hot and consistently, making it a dependable option during colder months while remaining easy to store year-round in above-ground or basement tanks.
Know your tank level (and when to reorder)
- Check the gauge monthly. Most gauges read F–¾–½–¼.
- Reorder at ¼ tank. This helps avoid last-minute rushes and protects against sludge being pulled from the very bottom.
- Track seasonal use. Homes typically consume more in late fall and winter—plan deliveries accordingly.
Storage & tank care: prevent water and sludge
Toronto’s temperature swings can cause condensation inside tanks, leading to water in the fuel. Over time, water encourages sludge and can corrode the tank or clog filters.
Quick checks:
- Make sure fill and vent pipes are capped and in good condition.
- Keep the area around the tank clean and accessible for deliveries and inspections.
- Ask about water-detecting paste or periodic checks for moisture at the tank bottom.
- Replace the oil filter on schedule to protect your burner from contaminants.
Tip: If you’ve had repeated burner lockouts or filter clogs, ask for a water/sludge check during your next delivery.
Delivery options: automatic vs. will-call
- Automatic delivery: We estimate usage based on degree-days and your past history, so fuel arrives before you need it—no calls, no guesswork.
- Will-call delivery: You monitor the gauge and place orders yourself. Reorder at ¼ tank to avoid emergency situations.
If your schedule is unpredictable (travel, rental turnover, new insulation), automatic delivery can save you time and worry.
Safety basics you should not skip
- Look for leaks or strong fuel odors. Call for service if you notice either.
- Install and test CO detectors. Oil systems are safe when maintained, but detectors are essential in any home with combustion appliances.
Book annual tune-ups. A technician will clean the burner, replace the nozzle/filter, and check combustion for efficiency.
Efficiency tips that lower consumption
- Annual service improves burn quality and reduces soot.
- Seal and insulate around drafty windows/doors to retain heat.
- Use a programmable thermostat to avoid overheating unoccupied spaces.
- Keep baseboards/radiators clear so heat circulates freely.
Why Toronto homeowners choose Lambert Oil
- Reliable scheduling (automatic or will-call) and quick turnarounds across the GTA
- Clean, treated furnace oil to help protect your system
- Friendly support—real people, clear answers, and delivery windows you can plan around
Ready to plan your next delivery?
Avoid last-minute orders and keep your system running at its best.
- Learn more about Home Heating Fuel Delivery
- Have questions or want to set up automatic delivery? Contact Us
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