What is the standard practice for storing heating oil during extreme weather conditions?

Keeping tanks full to prevent condensation is recognized as the standard practice for storing heating oil during extreme weather conditions. When a tank is only partially filled, there is a larger volume of air in the tank, which can lead to temperature fluctuations. These fluctuations can cause condensation to form inside the tank, where the moisture can mix with the oil and potentially lead to emulsification or the growth of microorganisms that can clog filters and affect system efficiency. By ensuring that the tank is kept full, you minimize the air space and, consequently, the chances of condensation forming, thus helping to maintain the quality of the heating oil and the efficiency of the heating system.

Storing oil in non-insulated tanks would not be advisable, as insulation helps maintain a stable temperature and prevents freeze-related issues during extreme cold. Relying solely on aboveground storage might expose the oil to environmental elements that can degrade its quality, and draining all oil before winter is impractical and risks leaving systems or tanks vulnerable to damage from freezing.