Heating oil is a popular alternative for many UK homeowners due to its dependability and efficiency. Yet, one issue that can come up in the winter is if residential heating oil can freeze. This is a legitimate worry because it might affect the heating system and necessitate oil boiler repairs. We will go through whether heating oil can freeze, what causes it, and how to avoid it in this article.
Can Domestic Heating Oil Freeze?
Indeed, household heating oil can freeze. The fact that it contains additives that lower its pour point—the temperature at which the oil becomes too thick to flow—means that it is less likely to freeze than diesel fuel. Depending on the oil type and additives used, heating oil's pour point varies, but is normally between -5°C and -10°C.
What Causes Heating Oil to Freeze?
If the temperature falls below its pour point, which might occur during a particularly cold winter, heating oil may freeze. The heating system may encounter issues when the oil becomes too thick to flow. Moreover, condensation within the oil tank has the potential to develop, freeze, and obstruct the oil lines, stopping the oil from getting to the boiler.
How to Prevent Heating Oil from Freezing?
There are several ways to prevent heating oil from freezing:
Insulate the oil tank: Ensure that the oil tank is properly insulated to assist in keeping the oil at the proper temperature and keep it from freezing. Insulating the tank and the oil lines going to the boiler is advised.
Install a heating system for the oil tank: Installing a heating system for the oil tank can help to maintain the temperature of the oil even in colder conditions.
Keep the tank full: An oil tank that is completely full will contain less air, which might result in less condensation and a decreased risk of oil freezing.
Add an anti-freeze additive: There are additives that can help reduce the oil's pour point, preventing it from freezing. To ensure the oil is protected over the winter, these can be put to the tank.
Check the tank regularly: Periodically inspecting the oil tank for any damage—such as fractures or leaks—can assist in averting any potential freezing-related problems.
Get in touch with our expert engineers
Consult with oil boiler specialists immediately if you think your heating oil may have frozen or if you are having any other boiler problems. Green and Reliable Heating is a reputable supplier of oil boiler repairs and maintenance services in Wetherby, York, Malton, and Harrogate. Your home will stay warm and cosy throughout the winter thanks to our team of skilled engineers' ability to identify and resolve any problems with your heating system.
