What to do if you run out of heating oil
Running dry is stressful but recoverable. Here's how to get heat back safely and avoid it happening again.
By MyOil Team ·
These are general steps. If you are unsure, stop and contact an OFTEC-registered technician. Never repeatedly reset a boiler. For a suspected leak or carbon monoxide, leave and call for help.
Don't panic, here's the order of play
- Order oil. Compare local suppliers on your county page and arrange the soonest delivery. Ask if a small emergency drop is possible.
- Expect a lockout. Running dry draws air into the line, so the boiler usually won't fire until the air is cleared.
- Bleeding the line. After delivery, the burner often needs bleeding. If you're confident and the manufacturer allows it, this is a short job, but if you're unsure, call an OFTEC-registered technician.
- One reset only. If you try the reset button, press it once. Never repeatedly.
Avoid the repeat
Set a run-out reminder so you're nudged before the tank gets low, stop guessing your tank level, and never get caught short again.
Catch the dips, not the spikes
Set a price-drop alert and we'll email you when oil gets cheaper in your county.
Set a price-drop alert →Not sure if you need oil yet?
Pop in your tank and last fill, and we'll estimate how many days you've got left.
See when you'll run out →Never overpay, never run dry.
Tell us your county and we'll watch the price by the fill, not the cent. Add your tank and we'll tell you when you'll run out, and nudge you in good time to order.