When Will My Heating Oil Run Out?
Use our free calculator to find out exactly when your oil tank will run out. Simply enter your current tank level and we'll calculate your run-out date based on seasonal usage patterns and your local climate.
How We Calculate Your Run-Out Date
Seasonal Adjustments
We automatically detect the current month and adjust usage estimates based on UK Heating Degree Days data. Winter months (Dec-Feb) typically use 3-4x more oil than summer months when heating is minimal.
Regional Climate Data
Your UK region significantly affects heating needs. Scottish Highlandsmay use 35% more oil than South West England due to colder winters and longer heating seasons.
Property Factors
Larger properties and those with poor insulation need more heating. We factor in property size, insulation quality, and thermostat settings to refine our estimates.
Confidence Margins
Weather is unpredictable, so we provide a confidence margin(±days) based on typical variability. The more details you provide, the tighter our estimate becomes.
Typical UK Heating Oil Usage by Season
Winter
Dec - Feb
~50%
of annual usage
Spring
Mar - May
~25%
of annual usage
Summer
Jun - Aug
~5%
of annual usage
Autumn
Sep - Nov
~20%
of annual usage
Our Calculation Sources
- Met Office - UK regional temperature averages and Heating Degree Day (HDD) data used for seasonal adjustments.
- Department for Energy Security & Net Zero - UK domestic energy consumption statistics and heating patterns.
- Energy Saving Trust - Home heating efficiency data and typical UK consumption figures.
- OFTEC (Oil Firing Technical Association) - Oil heating industry standards and consumption guidelines.
Tips for Accurate Estimates
- •Check your tank gauge regularly - the sight glass can be inaccurate at low levels
- •Note your oil deliveries and dates to calculate actual consumption
- •Use our Oil Usage Calculator for annual estimates
- •Consider a smart tank monitor for real-time level tracking
- •Order when tank reaches 25-30% to avoid emergency deliveries
- •Cold snaps can dramatically increase usage - build in a buffer
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate when my heating oil will run out?
To calculate when your heating oil will run out, you need to know your current tank level (in litres or as a percentage) and your typical daily or annual usage. Our calculator factors in seasonal variations – you'll use more oil in winter than summer – and adjusts for your UK region's climate to give you an accurate run-out date.
How long will my heating oil last?
How long your heating oil lasts depends on your tank level, property size, insulation quality, thermostat setting, and the time of year. A typical UK home uses 1,500-2,000 litres per year, with around 50% used during winter months (December-February). Use our calculator above for a personalised estimate based on your specific circumstances.
When should I reorder heating oil?
You should reorder heating oil when your tank reaches 25-30% capacity. This gives you enough buffer time for delivery (typically 2-5 working days) and prevents sediment at the bottom of your tank from reaching your boiler. During winter, order earlier as demand is higher and delivery times may be longer.
How much heating oil does a UK home use per day?
A typical UK home uses 3-8 litres of heating oil per day during winter, but this varies significantly by season. In summer, usage drops to 0.5-1 litre per day (mainly for hot water). Factors like property size, insulation, thermostat settings, and regional climate all affect daily consumption.
Time to Order Heating Oil?
Compare prices from trusted UK suppliers and book your delivery before you run out.
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