How Long Is Heating Oil Good For?

Written on: March 14, 2022

Does it ever expire?

Almost everything has an expiration date. From the food in your fridge to the gas in your car, nothing lasts forever (except maybe for honey and diamonds). So how about heating oil? Does it go bad? You’ve probably been using heating oil in large amounts this winter, but what about as the weather gets warmer and you start using it less? How much do you have to worry about the oil in your New England home’s tank going bad?

The short answer is most people don’t have to worry about their heating oil going bad. Number 2 heating oil (the type used in most US homes) has a shelf life of about 1 ½ to 2 years.

And quite honestly, even if the heating oil in your tank is nearing the two-year mark, chances are you can still use it. Old heating oil doesn’t spoil like old milk does. It simply becomes less potent. In short, you won’t get as much energy from it. Said another way, it won’t produce as much heat when it’s burned.

However, there is a limit. And your furnace will shut off automatically if the heating oil isn’t reaching the minimum temperature range for your furnace when it’s burned. And if that happens, you’ll need to have your furnace serviced. So if it’s been two years or more or there’s a chance the heating oil in your tank is no longer still good, your best bet is to have your tank professionally drained and refilled.

Other Factors In Heating Oil’s Shelf Life

The 1 ½ to 2 years is just a general guideline for the shelf life of your heating oil. There are other factors that can affect the length of time your heating oil will remain viable. For example:

• If there are bacteria in your heating oil. (The presence of bacteria is actually the leading cause of fuel breakdown.)
• If your tank has corroded.
• If there are any life-extending additives in your heating oil.
• If your heating oil is high or low quality. (Brideau is proud to deliver Bioheat Plus® Fuel.)

The bottom line: If you use a reputable heating oil supplier like Brideau, if your heating oil tank receives regular maintenance, and if your heating oil hasn’t been sitting unused for more than two years, then you have nothing to worry about.

As a family-owned, top-quality fuel company, Brideau Energy cares about your comfort. We have also earned a reputation for fairness and honesty. Click here to see if we’re in your neighborhood of central Massachusetts or southern New Hampshire.

Contact us today to become a customer, request a fuel delivery, or receive service. Your comfort is our priority.