At what temperature does heating oil typically begin to gel?

Heating oil typically begins to gel at around 20°F (-6°C). At this temperature, the paraffin waxes present in the heating oil start to solidify, causing the fuel to become thicker and possibly hindering its flow through fuel lines and filters. This gelling effect is a crucial consideration for those managing heating oil and storage systems, especially in colder climates, as it can lead to operational issues during the winter months.

Understanding this gelling point is vital for ensuring that heating systems function effectively and that appropriate preventative measures, such as using winterized blends of heating oil or adding anti-gel additives, are taken when temperatures approach this threshold. This focus on temperature management contributes to maintaining efficient heating operations and preventing disruptions in fuel delivery.