Written on: May 27, 2024
Sometimes, in response to a no-heat service call, our service technician will discover that the heating oil system has shut down because the fuel supply line has been clogged with thick, black sediment known as sludge. This originates from the heating oil tank. Here’s why this happens and how you can prevent it from happening to you.
Sludge in your heating oil tank is a mix of dirt, rust, and oxidized fuel that has settled at the bottom. The fuel is oxidized by bacteria that thrive because of water in the tank, caused by condensation created on the walls of the empty part of your tank.
After water forms on the bare walls on the empty area of the tank, it drips down and sinks to the bottom of the tank because water is denser than heating oil. There, it becomes an ideal environment for bacteria and other microorganisms.
Over time, these organisms turn into sediment. One problem is that this sediment, or sludge, can get into your fuel lines and clog them. This will cause your heating system to shut down.
If you’re a Broco automatic delivery customer, we make sure your tank has enough fuel inside at the end of the heating season so you can avoid any problems with condensation during the warm-weather months. The key to preventing condensation from forming is not to let your tank sit nearly empty during the warm weather.
If you’re not on our automatic delivery schedule, call us to request a fill-up so we can help you head off any condensation problems with your heating oil tank during the spring and summer.
Most Broco Energy® heating fuel customers have chosen to take advantage of our free automatic delivery service. This is a proven method that allows us to manage your fuel supply, freeing you up to manage other important household tasks during the heating season. Here is how it works.
Our computer system tracks how much fuel your home will typically use based on how cold it is outside and your fuel usage history. We will deliver fuel automatically to you, usually when your oil tank gets to be one-quarter full. The result: minimal chance of a run-out, no more calling for a delivery and no more monitoring your fuel levels on your own.
So, instead of having to call us every time you need more heating fuel, you don’t have to do anything! Our driver will simply come to your home and fill your tank based on the schedule we have built for you.
There is no need to schedule and wait for deliveries, and you’ll avoid the expense and hassle of having your system tested and primed for restart—something that is required after a run-out. Please note that automatic delivery does not include burner service, additives or treatments.
However, when you’re a Broco Energy® automatic delivery customer, your price per gallon is better, and you won’t see any extra charges. You’ll be billed automatically too, on your credit card, using a debit card or by ACH.
If your fuel needs are not that constant, or if you prefer to manage your heating-oil (or propane) orders directly, then we recommend staying on will-call. For will-call deliveries, you place your order over the phone or online and we’ll deliver to you the next time we’re in your area. Please note that will-call deliveries start at a minimum of 100 gallons.
If you live or have a business in Middlesex County, MA or one of the many other communities in our service area in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, please reach out to us if you would like to become a Broco Energy® commercial or residential fuel customer.
We’ll make sure that your heating oil tank is properly inspected and maintained. If you need a replacement heating oil tank, we offer you a wide selection of replacement tanks and the knowledge to install them correctly and efficiently. Our installers are also experienced in the best ways to transfer your existing heating fuel and dispose of the old tank.
