Heating Oil | PepUp https://pepupinc.com Propane Deals Tue, 16 Dec 2025 18:32:01 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 https://pepupinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pepup-favicon-32x32.png Heating Oil | PepUp https://pepupinc.com 32 32 Grain drying methods by fuel type: Ensuring quality harvests https://pepupinc.com/agriculture-fuels-for-grain-drying/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=agriculture-fuels-for-grain-drying Thu, 27 Mar 2025 04:01:24 +0000 https://pepupinc.com/?p=1899

Grain drying methods by fuel type: Ensuring quality harvests

PepUp fuels local agriculture. We know a lot of farmers who grow high-quality grain crops in this high-humidity environment. From planting to harvest and grain drying, local producers use fuels from PepUp to power farming operations.

Why grain drying matters

Grains like corn, wheat, and soybeans are often harvested when their moisture levels are higher than desired. For safe storage, it is recommended that grains should be dried to a moisture content of 13-15%. If they are stored without drying, high moisture content inside the grain can lead to:

  • Mold Growth: Excess moisture creates a perfect environment for mold, which can ruin entire batches of grain.
  • Pest Infestation: Grains at higher moisture levels attract pests looking for a meal, leading to potential contamination.
  • Reduced Market Value: Buyers typically prefer low-moisture grain, and grain prices reflect that. Higher moisture may result in lower prices or a batch of grain not meeting sale requirements at all.

Given the importance of grain quality, effective drying is paramount for Delmarva farmers. This is where PepUp helps our wholesale customers in the farming community keep their crops profitable.

Methods of grain drying

Grain drying can be accomplished through various methods using propane, heating oil, and kerosene. In the Delmarva region, propane is the most widely used fuel for grain drying.
Essentially, every grain drying setup follows the same basic process:

  1. Setup: Farmers load their grains into a drying bin. The bin is equipped with a burner that uses propane as the fuel source.
  2. Heating: The burner ignites fuel to produce hot air, which is funneled across the grains.
  3. Moisture Removal: As the hot, dry air flows across the grain, it raises the temperature and draws out moisture, allowing for effective drying.

Farmers choose different fuels based on the equipment they use and their individual harvest needs. Let’s consider the top three fuels local farmers use to dry grains, and why they choose one fuel over another.

The benefits of propane for grain drying operations

Propane is the most popular fuel choice for grain dryers in our area due to its efficiency and clean-burning nature, which helps reduce the cost of grain drying.

One of the key advantages of propane is its availability in the region, thanks to the extensive network of storage facilities PepUp maintains and our ability to deliver large quantities of propane to local farmers quickly and reliably.

Here are the top reasons why propane grain drying technology is used by 8 out of 10 farmers in our region:

  • Efficiency: Propane packs quite a punch with its high energy content. It burns hotter and more evenly than other fuels, making it perfect for drying grain uniformly—something that’s important for a quality yield.
  • Reliability: Propane grain drying systems offer reliability, even in remote setups. They’re highly portable, allowing farmers to take them to areas where other types of dryers can’t be fueled. This makes them perfect for rural farms.
  • Cost: Because propane is so efficient, it speeds up drying times and uses less energy. This means you can save quite a bit on fuel in the long run compared to using other energy sources.
  • Low-Emissions: Propane is a cleaner option than many other fuels. It releases fewer pollutants than diesel and gasoline. It’s not a greenhouse gas, so it has a lower impact on the environment. In a lot of places, it’s even less carbon-intensive than the electricity from the grid. That makes propane a nice, clean alternative for your grain drying needs, and as a bonus, it doesn’t leave the grain with an odor or taste.

The Propane Education and Research Council reports that propane grain drying systems are 50 percent more efficient than older types of systems. Use this calculator to determine how much propane you would need to dry a specific grain harvest to exactly the right moisture content.

Drying grain with traditional heating oil

Heating oil is another viable option for grain drying. Here’s why farmers might use heating oil to dry their grain crops:

  • Efficiency: Heating oil is known for its high energy output, which helps generate a strong, consistent heat. This steady heat is key for drying grain uniformly, ensuring that every kernel is up to standard and ready for market.
  • Equipment Durability: Equipment that runs on heating oil tends to be tough and long-lasting. These systems are built to withstand rough conditions, which makes them a reliable choice season after season, and even generation after generation.
  • Cost Control: While fuel prices can fluctuate, pricing for heating oil remains relatively consistent over long periods of time, with less seasonal fluctuation.

Using heating oil can be advantageous in terms of cost-effectiveness, especially if farmers purchase in bulk or pre-buy contracts when heating oil prices are at their lowest. Farmers should consider their specific harvesting schedules, equipment efficiency, and storage capacity and requirements when choosing this method.

Using kerosene-powered grain drying equipment

Kerosene, while less common than propane and heating oil, is still used by some farmers in the Delmarva region. Here’s why:

  • Efficiency: Kerosene offers a reliable heat source, delivering consistent energy output that helps achieve even grain drying. This uniform heating is crucial for maintaining the quality of your harvest. It’s also exceptionally stable in cold weather, which gives it an edge over heating oil for farmers who need to pre-buy and store fuel throughout the year.
  • Flexibility: Like propane, kerosene is a portable fuel, making it perfect for farms located in areas without easy access to a farm’s large fuel storage tanks. This flexibility means you can take the drying operation to the field instead of transporting the grain to the dryer.
  • Dependability: Kerosene equipment is built to last, often with simple designs that require minimal maintenance. This makes it a dependable option for family farms to use for many years, and it’s easy to repair when needed.

While kerosene can be effective, it is important to ensure proper ventilation to avoid any buildup of fumes. Grain quality and marketability may suffer if excess hydrocarbons affect the grain’s natural smell or taste.

Drying grain: Essential for coastal farmers

Farmers in the high-humidity Delmarva coastal region reduce grain moisture content through drying methods that deliver top-quality results, work with their equipment, and provide some cost-saving efficiency. PepUp delivers the fuel that helps farmers protect their investments and ensure their grains fetch the best price, without risk of spoilage and infestation.

Discover more ways local businesses rely on agricultural fuel delivery from PepUp to fuel growth, innovation, and profitability. Chances are, if you have a business that needs heat – for people, livestock, food, and even grain drying – PepUp has you covered!

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The Complete PepUp Guide to Agriculture Fuels https://pepupinc.com/wholesale-agriculture-fuels-guide/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=wholesale-agriculture-fuels-guide Fri, 14 Mar 2025 04:01:02 +0000 https://pepupinc.com/?p=1896

The Complete PepUp Guide to Agriculture Fuels

Serving farmers, poultry growers, fisheries, and agribusinesses in the greater Delmarva Region, PepUp delivers fuel that producers depend on for keeping their businesses running, year-round. The high-quality fuels PepUp has delivered for the past 60+ years power everything from tractors and irrigation systems to grain dryers and poultry house heaters.

The PepUp model of service was built to meet the unique energy demands of local Mid-Atlantic agribusinesses, and we proudly supply a diverse range of agricultural fuels to help local producers reduce costs and maintain productivity.

This guide explores the best fuel options for agricultural operations across the Mid-Atlantic. Whether you’re looking for bulk propane, heating oil, kerosene, biodiesel, diesel, or ethanol-free gasoline, PepUp delivers the right fuel for your agriculture-based business.

PepUp delivers fuel for farming and food production

Let’s explore some of the ways local agribusiness customers use the various fuels PepUp delivers to our agriculture customers.

Maryland and Delaware are top poultry-producing states, supplying millions of chickens to the national food market. PepUp got its start supplying heating oil to poultry farms in and near Friendship, Maryland. We’ve continued to deliver a variety of fuels to local chicken producers ever since.

Poultry farms require precisely controlled temperatures to ensure healthy flock growth and high survival rates. Propane is widely used on Delmarva for:

PepUp account managers and delivery drivers follow the most stringent biosecurity recommendations when it comes to poultry facilities. We’re happy to talk with you about the biosecurity precautions our drivers are trained to take when entering and exiting every poultry farm, hatchery, and processing facility we fuel.

Heating oil is used in local agriculture as an efficient and inexpensive fuel:

  • Keeps farm buildings, greenhouses, and office buildings warm during winter
  • Used in fisheries for processing center and warehouse heating
  • Affordable and high-BTU value for long-lasting heat

Heating oil has long been a reliable heating fuel for farms and food production facilities. For grain producers, maintaining warm temperatures during winter storage prevents crop spoilage. Fisheries and seafood operations also rely on heating oil for cooking, processing, and space heating.

  • Prevents diesel fuel from freezing in extreme cold
  • Used in certain types of aquaculture heating systems
  • Efficient space heating for grain storage barns and processing facilities

Kerosene is a proven light distillate fuel that remains popular in cold-weather farm and fisheries applications. Seafood operations often use kerosene-based heating systems to maintain the required temperatures in storage facilities and fish processing plants.

  • Reduces carbon emissions in farming equipment
  • B2, B5, B20, B50, and B100 available for custom agriculture applications
  • Commonly used in Delmarva grain transportation and trucking fleets

PepUp delivers soy-based biodiesel for local producers. Biodiesel is a renewable, cleaner-burning alternative to standard diesel. For grain producers, biodiesel-powered trucks transport harvests more sustainably. Poultry farms and fisheries can also transition fleet vehicles to biodiesel blends to meet sustainability and emissions reduction targets.

  • Tractors, combines, and harvesters rely on diesel fuel
  • Off-road diesel reduces costs for farm-specific machinery
  • Fishing fleets and maritime operations on Delmarva depend on diesel fuel access

Diesel fuel remains the backbone of modern farm machinery, including tractors, combines, and grain transport trucks. Additionally, the commercial seafood industry in Delmarva runs on marine diesel for boats, refrigeration units, and processing plants.

  • Used in small fleet vehicles, irrigation pumps, and backup generators
  • Ethanol-free gasoline is widely used in marine and fishing applications
  • Ideal for boats, ATVs, and farm utility vehicles

For fishing boats and small farm engines, E89 ethanol-free gasoline prevents fuel-system corrosion and extends engine life. Many poultry and grain transport trucks also use premium gasoline blends for optimal fuel performance.

Learn more about PepUp’s fleet fuel delivery options and custom soy biodiesel blends.

Why choose PepUp for agricultural fuel delivery?

Locally based in Federalsburg, PepUp maintains a wholesale and agriculture fuel delivery fleet of 29 trucks and 25 drivers, serving Delmarva farms and fisheries 24/7/365. We offer custom fleet fuel blends, dependable and flexible delivery schedules, and a locally managed system of storage facilities that can deliver up to 8,500 gallons of fuel to your onsite storage tanks anytime you need it.

Call PepUp today to schedule a fuel quote for your farm or agribusiness. Our agriculture account managers know a lot about local producer needs, and they can customize your fleet fuels, delivery, and billing to best suit your business usage and revenue cycles. Let’s talk about how PepUp can help you fuel your ag business and take one big worry off your shoulders.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about agricultural fuel delivery services with PepUp

Propane-powered heaters maintain the ideal temperature in pole barn-style open poultry houses, ensuring healthier flocks and more efficient heating than electric alternatives.

Heating oil provides steady, cost-efficient warmth for grain storage silos, processing plants, and seafood processing facilities that require consistent heating.

Kerosene delivers reliable cold-weather heating, making it an excellent secondary fuel for seafood processing and bait storage facilities in winter.

Yes! Biodiesel blends (B5, B20) power chicken transport trucks and processing fleets while lowering carbon emissions.

PepUp delivers high-quality on-road and marine-grade diesel, ensuring efficiency and compliance with fuel regulations.

Ethanol-free gasoline prevents fuel degradation in long-term storage, making it ideal for seasonal farm vehicles and fishing boats.

The post The Complete PepUp Guide to Agriculture Fuels first appeared on PepUp.

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PepUp’s Complete Guide to Wholesale Fuel Delivery & Services https://pepupinc.com/guide-to-wholesale-fuel-delivery/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=guide-to-wholesale-fuel-delivery Thu, 13 Feb 2025 20:14:19 +0000 https://pepupinc.com/?p=1882

Guide to PepUp wholesale fuel delivery and services

Fuel prices and supply chain or delivery challenges can impact your business in the blink of an eye. Your business needs reliable wholesale fuel delivery, control over price fluctuations, and a consistent, quality supply of fuel to keep your operation running, and your fuel budget manageable.

PepUp: The originator of wholesale fuel delivery on the Eastern Shore

PepUp has been delivering wholesale fuels to our commercial customers for six decades, and it all started with a single poultry farm in Friendship, Maryland. When Lee McMahan bought that first used heating oil truck to make sure his chickens stayed warm through the winter, he naturally started hauling oil for neighboring farmers who also needed a reliable source of heating oil.

Today, PepUp has expanded our wholesale fuel delivery to more than just local poultry farms, but our focus remains the same: your business depends on reliable fuel delivery, and we’re committed to being that partner you can always count on to keep your business fueled up and running.

Fuels PepUp delivers

The PepUp team is committed to helping your business thrive, and with an expanded local storage capacity, we are prepared to handle your wholesale fuel delivery needs.

Our wholesale customers rely on PepUp for a variety of top-quality bulk fuels.

Propane

Propane, a byproduct of natural gas processing and petroleum refining, consists of hydrocarbons like propane and butane. It is extracted from raw natural gas using refrigeration and pressure. PepUp delivers the highest quality propane, often referred to as “consumer-grade” propane. In the Greater Delmarva region, propane is second only to heating oil for commercial and residential heating.

PepUp is the top Delmarva provider of high-quality, bulk propane fuel delivery for homes and businesses throughout our region. Our supply of consumer-grade propane is suitable for propane-powered vehicles and heavy equipment, home and commercial heating systems, and restaurants using propane cooking appliances.

Heating Oil

Heating oil has been a reliable source of indoor heat since the early 20th century, and is common in the Mid-Atlantic region. Derived from crude oil, it is refined to create a safe and reliable heat source. Known for its ability to generate consistent, comfortable warmth during harsh winters, heating oil has powered countless homes and businesses across cold climates for decades.

Heating oils today are about 95% cleaner than they were 50 years ago, and provide energy-efficient heat during those surprise Delmarva cold snaps. Heating oil is also affordable, and PepUp service technicians and delivery drivers are highly experienced when it comes to the safe delivery and storage of heating oil for both residential and commercial use.

Kerosene

Widely used for its efficiency in cold-weather applications, kerosene is a more refined petroleum derivative than heating oil and tends to burn hotter. K-1 kerosene is the purest form of the fuel, and is used locally in some heating systems and fleet engines, and other heating applications.

Biodiesel Blends: B2-B99.9*

PepUp specializes in custom soy biodiesel blends, a clean burning fuel that is renewable and domestically produced. Biodiesel can be blended at any level with petroleum to create a fuel that can often be used in any equipment that consumes regular diesel with few or no modifications.

PepUp offers the largest distribution network for soy-based biodiesel in Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. Custom blends of soy biodiesel can be created to customer specifications. From B2 to B99.9, the product can be delivered in quantities as small as 500 gallons to as much as 7,500 gallons.

Here’s a comparison of a few typical biodiesel grades PepUp provides:

B5 (5% Biodiesel, 95% Petroleum Diesel)

  • Use Cases: Everyday vehicles, commercial fleets, marine applications, and agricultural equipment.

B20 (20% Biodiesel, 80% Petroleum Diesel)

  • Use Cases: Alternative fuel used in commercial and government fleets, buses, delivery trucks, and municipal vehicles.

B50 (50% Biodiesel, 50% Petroleum Diesel)

  • Use Cases: Alternative fuel used in certain fleet operations committed to sustainability, specific pilot projects, or controlled environments.

B100 (100% Biodiesel; No petroleum content)*

  • Use Cases: Alternative fuel used in agricultural, industrial, and municipal fleet applications, government and educational research fleets, and controlled-use scenarios.

*B100 is available at our Federalsburg office for drive-up customers.

On & Off-Road Diesel

Machines and equipment that run on diesel still power many Mid-Atlantic businesses. PepUp provides wholesale ultra-low sulfur diesel and off-road diesel for fleet fuels, gas stations, commercial fisheries and maritime fleets, farm use, and other businesses that require regular large deliveries.

Gasoline

Powering internal combustion engines since the late 19th Century, gasoline still powers travel and business throughout our region. From fleet vehicles to generators and even gas stations, PepUp delivers the gasoline that keeps the Mid-Atlantic moving and working.

E89 Ethanol-Free Gasoline

Most modern gasoline is actually gasohol, a blend of gasoline and ethanol. For engines that require the clean-burning efficiency of gasoline without ethanol, PepUp offers the purer version: ethanol-free gasoline, an alternative vehicle fuel available in large quantities for our wholesale fuel customers.

Wholesale fuel service in Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia

The PepUp fleet has grown quite a bit in the last 60 years. From one heating oil truck and one owner/delivery driver, the PepUp team now includes 25 full-time drivers and 29 transport trucks, specializing in bulk delivery of all the fuels our neighbors need to stay in business.

A PepUp wholesale fuel delivery transport truck delivers 8,500 gallons of fuel during the recent snowstorms. PepUp storage facilities feature large onsite storage tanks for quick wholesale fuel delivery. A PepUp Propane Salesman shakes hands with a local Delmarva farmer, with grain silos in the background.

Fuel use by commercial application: PepUp delivers the fuel you need

Our team can deliver large quantities of wholesale liquid heating fuel on your schedule, including propane, heating oil, and kerosene. Our team can help you set up onsite fuel storage, and we’ll customize your delivery schedule to anticipate heating demand. We can even set up automatic tank monitors that help us know when you’re running low, so you’re never left on empty.

  • LPG, or Liquid Propane Gas
  • Heating Oil
  • Kerosene

Whether you need propane to keep your restaurant’s kitchen fully operational, or to get grain drying efficiently, our team of Energy Specialists can help you determine your onsite storage needs and a delivery schedule that’s flexible and reliable. If you ever run low on fuel and need an emergency delivery, we’re here to help. We offer emergency wholesale fuel deliveries 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can usually have you fueled up in less than 24 hours.

Agricultural Fuel Delivery

Delmarva’s expansive agriculture and poultry farming industry relies primarily on PepUp for its fuel needs. From pole barn heating to broiler houses and essential grain drying operations, our team understands the unique challenges and requirements of running a successful agricultural operation in a coastal region. We also require our poultry farm delivery drivers to maintain the highest HPAI biosecurity standards to protect the farms we fuel, including meticulous cleaning of vehicles and drivers before and after each delivery.

Restaurant Fuel Delivery

PepUp fuels restaurants and food trucks on the Eastern Shore, the Tri-County Area, and throughout our Greater Delmarva service area. From cooking appliances to patio space heaters and entire indoor dining spaces, if your restaurant runs on propane or heating oil, PepUp can keep you fueled and ready to feed your customers and keep them comfortable.

Maritime Fuels

Fueling seagoing vessels is second nature to our team at PepUp, and we can manage everything from boat fuel station refills to direct cruise ship and large vessel refueling. Our supplies of diesel and gasoline fuels power fishing fleets throughout the Chesapeake Bay area. We’re proud to support our local maritime community and commercial fisheries and travel partners with any of their fueling needs.

Vehicle Fuels

PepUp keeps a variety of fleet fuels in stock and ready to deliver:

  • Soy Biodiesel blends B2-B99.9
  • On & Off-Road Diesel
  • Ethanol-Free Gasoline
  • E85 Flex-Fuel Gasoline

Wholesale Fuel Delivery

The PepUp team can scale your wholesale order to meet your storage capacity and fleet fueling needs. We can deliver up to 8,500 gallons of fuel to your storage tanks as frequently as necessary to keep your fleet operating.

Many of our customers take fuel deliveries 2-5 times weekly. Larger orders are delivered at a bulk fuel discount, and emergency deliveries are always available for our wholesale and retail fuel customers.

PepUp Fuel Account

In addition, we offer two unmanned, 24-hour fleet fueling stations in Dagsboro (open to the public) and Federalsburg (open to customers with a PepUp fuel account).

The fuels available at our 24-hour fleet fueling stations include:

  • Diesel
  • Regular Unleaded Gasoline (87)
  • Plus/Mid-Grade Unleaded Gasoline (89)
  • Premium Unleaded Gasoline (93)
  • Ethanol-Free Gasoline
  • E85 Flex Fuel Gasoline

B100 soy biodiesel is available at our Federalsburg District Office during regular business hours for customers who need to fuel vehicles on the go. Ethanol-free gasoline is also available for delivery to our wholesale and retail fuel customers.

Retailers who offer portable propane tank exchange services can schedule bulk tank exchanges by the truckload with PepUp. Our bulk small tank exchange service includes pick-up of empty tanks and drop-off of full tanks for your exchange business. Speak with your dedicated account manager about scheduling regular exchanges or will-call tank exchange services.


Lower wholesale fuel costs with delivery from PepUp

We want to help local business owners and farmers thrive. Let PepUp handle your fleet fuel needs. We’ll deliver just what you need, on time and on budget.
Our customized purchasing and delivery options help our wholesale customers tailor their fuel supply and budget to their specific business needs.

Unlike other wholesale suppliers, PepUp has local small business roots, and our family-owned business is committed to making it easy for our customers to keep doing business with us.

Here’s what we offer:

  • Competitive Pricing: We work with our large network of fuel suppliers to negotiate the best possible prices, and maintain a network of storage facilities in our supply network for fast, reliable fuel delivery.
  • Flexible Delivery Options: We customize delivery options to fit your business needs, including on-site fueling for large machinery, bulk delivery to fill your onsite storage tanks, and wireless tank monitoring with scheduled Automatic Delivery to take the guesswork out of keeping your fuel tanks full.
  • Dedicated Account Management: Our experienced account managers provide personalized support and tailored solutions to make sure you’re happy, and they’re always just a phone call away.
  • Cost Management Options: We offer a range of price risk management tools to help you protect your business from price fluctuations, including locked-in pricing contracts, flat price or spot term contracts (TVA), differential pricing, pre-buys, and swaps (OTC) contracts.

Partner with PepUp for all your wholesale fuel delivery needs

PepUp is your trusted partner for all your wholesale fuel needs. With our competitive pricing, diverse fuel offerings, flexible delivery options, and dedicated customer support, we’re committed to fueling your business’s success.

Contact us today to learn more about PepUp’s wholesale fuel delivery and services, and start your journey towards a more efficient and cost-effective fuel management strategy with a local partner you can depend on.

The post PepUp’s Complete Guide to Wholesale Fuel Delivery & Services first appeared on PepUp.

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The Ultimate Guide to Residential Heating Oil https://pepupinc.com/heating-oil-guide/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=heating-oil-guide Tue, 14 Jan 2025 04:01:18 +0000 https://pepupinc.com/?p=1837

The Ultimate Guide to Residential Heating Oil

If you’ve just purchased a home with an oil furnace or need a refresher on how to manage and use your heating oil system efficiently, PepUp wants to help.

Use this guide to find the answers you need about efficient heating practices, system maintenance, and even the pros and cons of converting your home’s heating system from oil to propane.

Heating Oil System Basics

What is heating oil?

Heating oil has been a staple for home heating since the early 20th century, especially in areas like Delmarva. Derived from crude oil, it is refined to create a safe and reliable heat source. Known for its ability to generate consistent, comfortable warmth during harsh winters, heating oil has powered countless homes across cold climates for decades.

What types of heating oil systems are common on Delmarva?

Our technicians most often encounter heating oil systems that include forced air, hot water baseboards, and steam radiators. Forced air systems use a furnace to heat air, which is distributed through ducts. Hot water systems (baseboards or radiators) use a boiler to heat water, which circulates through pipes. Steam systems are similar, but they use steam instead of hot water.

Here’s a quick overview of how a forced air heating oil furnace works:

  1. Thermostat activation. The process begins when the thermostat detects that the room temperature has fallen below the set level and signals the furnace to kick on.
  2. Oil pump activation. The furnace’s oil pump draws heating oil from the storage tank through a filter to remove impurities.
  3. Atomization. The oil is pumped under pressure and then atomized—turned into a fine mist—by a nozzle inside the burner.
  4. Combustion. The atomized oil mist is mixed with air and ignited by an electric spark or hot surface ignitor inside the combustion chamber, creating a controlled flame.
  5. Heat exchange. The heat produced by the burning oil warms up the heat exchanger, which then heats the air blown by the furnace’s blower fan.
  6. Warm air circulation. The blower pushes the heated air through the ductwork and distributes it throughout the home via vents, raising the indoor temperature.
  7. Exhaust venting. Combustion gases are vented out of the home through a flue or chimney, ensuring indoor air remains safe and clean.
  8. Thermostat monitoring. Once the desired temperature is reached, the thermostat signals the furnace to shut off, repeating the cycle as needed to maintain comfort.

What are the advantages of an oil heating system?

Using heating oil is a reliable way to maintain a cozy home, even when it’s wet and cold outside. Home heating oil is both clean and efficient, making it a reliable choice when your primary heating system is an oil furnace. Here are some key advantages of using heating oil:

  • It’s clean. Modern heating oils are approximately 95% cleaner than those used half a century ago. This means you can enjoy efficient home heating while benefiting from a more environmentally friendly option.
  • It’s dependable. Heating oil offers reliable warmth throughout your home, ensuring each room remains at your preferred temperature, even during harsh winter weather.
  • It’s efficient. With its high energy output, your heating system will only require a minimal amount of heating oil. This efficiency, coupled with our extensive storage and distribution capabilities, allows us to offer competitive heating oil prices in Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware.
  • It’s safe. Heating oil only ignites in the presence of an advanced burner system, ensuring safety from accidental ignition and giving you peace of mind about your system.
  • It’s warm. One of the major benefits of heating with oil is its ability to generate warmth efficiently. It burns at a rapid 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit, which is much more effective than electric heat pumps. With an energy release of 138,500 BTUs per gallon, it provides exceptional warmth.

How is heating oil stored?

Homes in our area typically can have either aboveground or underground tanks to store heating oil. Aboveground tanks are easier to inspect and maintain and are generally located in a basement or outside the house. Underground tanks offer more space-saving solutions; however, they can be more challenging to inspect and carry environmental risks if leaks occur.

Home heating oil delivery requires clear access to the home's oil tank. Image of a heating oil tank outside a home.
A typical heating oil storage tank on Delmarva is aboveground, just outside the home. It should be easy to access for maintenance and oil deliveries.

Tips for Operating a Heating Oil System

How do I check my heating oil levels?

It’s important to regularly monitor your home’s heating oil levels to ensure uninterrupted service. Most tanks come equipped with a gauge that visually indicates oil levels. Alternatively, a simple dipstick method can be used.

Learn more about how to check your heating oil levels using the dipstick method. Better yet, sign up for Automatic Delivery from PepUp, and we’ll install a wireless tank monitor that keeps track of your oil levels so you don’t have to.

What are the best practices for maintenance?

To maintain peak efficiency and reliability of your heating oil furnace and supply lines:

Conduct monthly checks: Ensure the tank is in good condition and that there is no noticeable wear or leakage.

Schedule annual inspection and service: Before the cold hits, have a professional inspect your system for any issues. This keeps any surprises at bay when you need heat the most.

Checking heating oil levels using dipstick method. Heating oil boiler maintenance Heating oil furnace repair

During an inspection, a heating oil service technician will typically perform the following tasks:

  • Visual Inspection: The technician will visually examine the entire system, including the furnace, tanks, fuel lines, and any accessible components. They will check for signs of wear, corrosion, or leaks.
  • Cleaning the Furnace: Over time, soot and carbon deposits can build up inside the furnace, affecting its efficiency. The technician will clean these deposits from the burner and other components to ensure optimal operation.
  • Checking the Burner: The burner is the heart of your heating system. The technician will inspect and test it to ensure it ignites properly and burns fuel efficiently. They might also calibrate the burner to optimize fuel efficiency.
  • Inspecting the Fuel Nozzles and Filters: Over time, fuel nozzles can become clogged, and filters can get dirty. These components will be inspected, cleaned, or replaced as necessary to ensure smooth fuel flow.
  • Checking Thermostat Controls: The technician will test thermostat controls and settings to ensure that your heating system responds properly and maintains the desired indoor temperature.
  • Testing Safety Controls: Safety controls, such as the furnace’s limits, are tested to ensure they are functioning correctly and will shut down the system in case of overheating or other issues.
  • Inspecting the Oil Tank and Lines: For both aboveground and underground tanks, the technician will check for signs of leaks or damage. Fuel lines are also examined for leaks or corrosion.
  • Combustion Efficiency Test: This test analyzes the exhaust gases to determine how efficiently fuel is being burned. The results provide a clear indication of the system’s performance, and adjustments are made if necessary.
  • Checking Air Flow: In systems with ductwork, the technician may check for blockages or leaks that could affect air distribution and overall system efficiency.
  • Lubricating Moving Parts: Any moving parts, such as blower motors or pumps, are lubricated to reduce friction and wear.

Keep the area clear: Make sure the space around the furnace or boiler is free from any obstruction or combustible materials.

Fuel delivery scheduling: Estimate your oil usage to schedule regular deliveries or order will call deliveries, or have a PepUp technician install a wireless heating oil tank monitor when you sign up for Automatic Delivery and The Promise Plan, a level payment plan that takes the guesswork out of heating fuel costs.

Learn more from our Delmarva customers about how they recommend managing heating oil deliveries, whether for your primary home or your vacation home.

What are signs my system needs repair or replacement?

Watch for these warning signs that your heating oil system requires service:

  • Unusual Noises: Banging, whistling, or rattling sounds from the furnace or boiler.
  • Increased Fuel Consumption: A sudden spike in your fuel usage suggests inefficiency.
  • Uneven Heating: Some rooms are warm, while others remain cold.
  • Yellow Burner Flame: Indicates a dirty burner or obstruction.

How can I save money on winter heating?

Achieving efficiency with your heating oil system not only saves you money but also extends the life of your equipment.

  1. Regular maintenance: Schedule annual professional tune-ups. This includes cleaning the burner, checking the fuel nozzles, and ensuring filters are clean and unblocked.
  2. Upgrade equipment: Consider installing a modern, energy-efficient boiler or furnace. Newer models can reduce oil consumption by up to 30%.
  3. Insulation and sealing: Ensure that your home is well-insulated and free of drafts, reducing the overall workload on your system.
  4. Programmable thermostats: Use these to automate heating, ensuring that your home is warm when needed and conserving energy when it’s not.

Converting to a Propane-Powered System

Is converting from heating oil to propane worth it?

Propane systems can be more efficient and environmentally friendly than heating oil systems, but converting to propane heat from oil heat does come with an initial cost. Expect to invest anywhere from $2,400 to $9,200, depending on factors like system size and labor costs.

A PepUp Energy Specialist can work with you, and our service team and preferred local HVAC and plumbing service company to provide a more comprehensive estimate for your conversion project. If you’re ready to explore switching, request a call from our team and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

The crew of This Old House shows what’s involved with heating oil system removal and disposal.


Is converting from heating oil to propane worth it?

Beyond efficiency, propane offers flexible fuel options, powering not only propane home furnaces for heating, but also cooking appliances, modern tankless water heaters for unlimited hot water, clothes dryers, outdoor kitchen heaters and appliances, and fireplace inserts for reliable warmth and ambience. You can even power your home with a propane home backup generator.

There isn’t a better time to plan for these types of current and future home upgrades than when you’re installing a new propane system. We’ll walk you through the details when planning your heating oil to LP gas conversion project:

Heating with oil vs. propane

Propane systems are generally more efficient than heating oil systems, with newer propane furnace models reaching up to 98% efficiency. This translates to lower fuel consumption and utility bills. Depending on current oil prices, savings can be substantial, especially as oil prices fluctuate more than the cost of propane, per gallon.

Which option is better for the environment?

Propane is a cleaner-burning fuel than oil, with fewer impurities that lead to greenhouse gas emissions and air quality concerns. Propane is a more environmentally friendly choice compared to heating oil, aligning with efforts to reduce our carbon footprint.


Love Your Heating Oil System or Replace It: PepUp Can Help With Both

Whether you’re looking to effectively manage your heating oil system or considering a switch to propane, our team is here to provide the answers and resources you need to do what’s best for your home and family. With routine maintenance, strategic planning for the heating season, and energy-efficient upgrades, you can enjoy a comfortable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly home environment throughout the colder months on Delmarva.

PepUp offers emergency heating oil delivery on Delmarva and throughout our delivery service area in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia, so you can call us 24/7/365 for emergency delivery at 800-638-7802. We’ll deliver your heating oil quickly so that you, your family, and your home stays warm and safe.

Propane tank delivery on Delmarva Propane tanks outside a home in Maryland PepUp driver stands in front of newly set propane tanks.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Residential Heating Oil first appeared on PepUp.

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Propane home furnaces: A 20-point checklist to find the best one https://pepupinc.com/propane-home-furnaces-selection-checklist/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=propane-home-furnaces-selection-checklist Sun, 28 Jul 2024 04:01:48 +0000 https://pepupinc.com/?p=1648

Propane home furnaces: A 20-point selection checklist

Many of our heating oil customers are choosing to convert to propane home furnaces or boilers. If you’re in that camp, or if you have a propane heating system that will soon need to be replaced, we decided to do some research and provide you with a comprehensive checklist to use while you’re shopping.

Some items on the list may not apply to your home or geographic location, so remember to check on local regulations and call a PepUp Energy Specialist with any questions as you start considering replacing your propane home furnace.

Propane home furnaces: A 20-point shopping checklist

  1. BTU Rating: Ensure the furnace’s BTU rating matches your home’s heating needs for optimal comfort. This article about choosing the right fireplace insert includes some information about figuring BTU rating for square footage. Just look in the FAQ section at the bottom of the page.
  2. Efficiency (AFUE): Look for an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) above 90% for cost-effective heating. The higher the AFUE, the more efficient the furnace is.
  3. Climate Compatibility: Choose a furnace that performs well in humid, temperate climates typical of our region. Some furnaces and boilers feature dehumidifying effects, while others are known to add moisture into the home, according to some user reviews. Check out reviews from users in coastal regions to know how a specific furnace performs in a humid climate.
  4. Size of Your Home: Match furnace capacity to home size for efficient heating without overworking the system. Here’s a step-by-step guide and formula for determining what size furnace you’ll need to heat your home. Oversized furnaces are known to heat areas too quickly, and can waste heated air even when they’re not actively heating, so find a furnace that’s the right size for your space.
  5. Installation Costs: Consider contractor fees, ductwork, and any modifications needed for accurate budgeting. The most cost-effective installation will be replacing a propane home furnace with one of a similar size and dimensions, so make sure you ask any prospective installer about how size differences or other installation modifications will affect your installation price. Our favorite installers at Comfort Plus Services in Federalsburg can also help with the selection and purchase of home propane furnaces, and provide a straightforward estimate for installation.
  6. Heat Distribution: Check whether the furnace provides consistent heat distribution throughout your home. You can find some user reviews that are helpful when it comes to cold spots, efficiency, and even heating. Much of this performance factor depends on quality duct installation, so consider a duct inspection along with your installation to make sure you’re set up for even heating.
  7. Fuel Source Availability: Ensure a reliable and accessible propane supply to avoid heating disruptions. This guide for determining your home’s propane needs provides some detail around BTUs and propane consumption, so you can make sure your home’s propane tank is large enough to supply your new furnace with fuel.
  8. Brand Reputation: Research customer reviews and ratings for reliable brands known for quality and longevity. Ask your neighbors on Delmarva what home heating systems they use, and how they like them.
  9. Energy Star Certification: Look for Energy Star-certified models for better efficiency and environmental impact. Here’s a quick link to the Energy Star guide for home furnaces.
  10. Warranty and Service: Opt for models with long-term warranties and good service and support. It helps when you buy your furnace from the company that also installs it, so that the furnace and its installation are covered by the same company.
  11. Ease of Maintenance: Choose furnaces that users and technicians can easily maintain for hassle-free operation. The Propane Education and Research Council provides some insight into propane furnace benefits and resources for finding the best models for new construction, replacement, and retrofits.
  12. Noise Level: Opt for furnaces known for quiet operation to maintain household comfort. This factor is less important for home propane furnaces that will be installed in basements or enclosed and insulated utility closets, so prioritize noise only if you’ll be able to hear the unit running.
  13. Zoning Capabilities: Consider if the furnace supports zoning for customized heating in different areas. Here’s a guide to zoning from the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) if you want to learn more about this efficiency practice.
  14. Smart Thermostat Compatibility: Check if the furnace works with smart thermostats for advanced control. Smart thermostats can make it easy to control your home’s temperature remotely, which can come in handy if you’re away from home when a cold front blows in. It’s a feature we like to recommend to our customers who own vacation homes on the peninsula.
  15. Safety Features: Look for features like auto shutoff, robust safety sensors, and reliable emergency functions. Propane appliances produce carbon monoxide, so research the furnace you’re considering to make sure it has internal sensors, and of course you’ll want to install carbon monoxide detectors in your home as a backup.
  16. Weigh the Initial Cost vs. Long-Term Savings: Evaluate the balance between upfront costs and long-term energy savings. Propane home furnaces – especially new models – are so efficient that you may realize an immediate monthly savings that can eventually offset the cost of purchasing and installing a new unit. It may take months or years, so it’s a consideration for higher-cost furnaces.
  17. Professional Installation Requirements: Investigate whether specialized installation is necessary to avoid issues. The installation professionals at our subsidiary, Comfort Plus Services, can usually answer this question just by getting some detailed information about the model you’re considering and the one you currently have, but they may also want to see how your current furnace is installed before deciding how complex the work will be.
  18. Tax Credits and Rebates: Look for eligible local/federal incentives to offset initial investment. Explore Mid-Atlantic Propane Gas Association rebates and MAPDA Heating Oil rebates for Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia residents.
  19. Thermal Insulation: Ensure your home’s insulation is adequate to fully benefit from the furnace’s efficiency. A home energy audit from Energize Delaware costs just $50 (or $25 for qualifying residents) and includes a thorough home energy assessment and up to $250 in upgrades to help Delawareans reduce energy use. Your auditor should be able to use thermal tools to pinpoint where your home’s insulation could use some beefing up.
  20. Air Quality: Choose furnaces with advanced filtration systems to maintain optimal indoor air quality. Here’s more information about indoor air quality from the experts at Comfort Plus.

Before you buy a new propane furnace, call in backup

By taking each of the points we’ve outlined into account and using the resources in this checklist, you should be able to find a propane furnace that best suits your home’s heating needs and provides comfort throughout the colder months. For best results, call Comfort Plus or PepUp Energy Specialists to learn more details about your short list of propane home furnaces, their installation, and long-term performance and maintenance ratings. It never hurts to get a second or third opinion on an investment in your home comfort!


Image of Jacob Abbott, ag sales rep for PepUp, posing with a boat on the water in the background.

Meet Contributor and Ag Salesman, Jacob Abbott

Jacob was raised in the St. Michaels, Maryland area by a fourth-generation waterman and a registered nurse. He joined PepUp as an Agricultural Sales Rep in 2020. Jacob is also on the Board of Directors at the Delmarva Chicken Association, a member of the Delaware Farm Bureau, Maryland Farm Bureau, and of the Talbot County Watermen’s Association.

The post Propane home furnaces: A 20-point checklist to find the best one first appeared on PepUp.

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Heating oil delivery and use: The 5 best tips from Delmarva residents https://pepupinc.com/heating-oil-delivery-tips-delmarva/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=heating-oil-delivery-tips-delmarva Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:01:42 +0000 https://pepupinc.com/?p=1544

Heating oil delivery, use: 5 top tips for Delmarva residents

Scheduling or preparing for a home heating oil delivery in the winter can sometimes be necessary to ensure a warm and comfortable home during the cold months. Here are five tips to help you stay on top of your home heating oil needs, and prepare for delivery if you’re caught running low during the winter.

Tip #1: Monitor your heating oil levels

Regularly check the gauge or use the manual dipstick to determine how many inches of oil remain in your tank. This will help you estimate when a refill might be necessary, and avoid damage to your heating system.

Heating systems typically rely on a constant supply of heating oil to operate efficiently. If your tank runs empty or the fuel level drops too low, the heating system may struggle. This can lead to malfunctions, excessive wear and tear, and even damage to critical components. Monitoring your oil levels ensures that you always have an adequate amount of fuel to keep your heating system running smoothly.

Here’s how to check your oil tank level using the “stick” method

Customers in the PepUp service area usually don’t have an external gauge that allows for a quick visual inspection of heating oil levels inside the tank. Instead, you’ll need to check your heating oil levels using a “stick” method that’s similar to checking your car’s oil using a dipstick.

  1. First, you’ll need a clean stick that’s at least 6 feet long to ensure you can reach the bottom of your tank, and not lose the stick inside.
  2. Next, locate your fill pipe, remove the cap, and insert the stick straight down until you hit the bottom of the tank.
  3. Pull the stick out slowly and measure how many inches of oil are on the stick.
  4. Use this Fuel Inches Chart from PepUp to determine how many gallons of oil you have left in your tank, based on the size of your tank and the inches of oil on your stick.
This chart shows how many inches of heating oil correspond to gallons of oil remaining or oil needed for delivery in standard sizes of heating oil tanks.

Tip #2: Schedule heating oil delivery before levels get too low

During the winter, establish a routine to check your oil levels once or twice a week, depending on your usage patterns. This will allow you to estimate when it’s time to schedule a delivery and avoid running out of oil.

Don’t wait until your tank is completely empty before scheduling a delivery. It’s important to plan ahead to avoid running out of heating oil. Contact PepUp for heating oil delivery early, especially during periods of high demand, to ensure you have enough fuel to last through the colder weather.

Tip #3: Consider automatic delivery

To eliminate the stress of monitoring your oil levels and scheduling deliveries, consider enrolling in Automatic Delivery from PepUp. This service uses an advanced monitoring system to track your oil usage and automatically schedule deliveries when you are running low. This helps avoid the risk of running out of oil and ensures a convenient and uninterrupted supply.

Tip #4: Keep your heating oil tank accessible

Before the scheduled delivery, make sure the pathway to your heating oil tank is clear of snow, ice, or any obstructions to the walking path. This will allow the delivery driver to access your tank easily and safely. Keep in mind that a clear and accessible pathway also helps expedite the delivery process and avoids potential delays.

Tip #5: Communicate any special instructions when you contact PepUp for delivery

For example, if there is a specific entrance to your property, a locked gate, or a dog on the premises, make sure your delivery driver is aware. This will help ensure a smooth and efficient delivery experience for everyone, and your driver will thank you for keeping pets contained during your delivery.

Bonus tip: Have a backup plan

When it comes to winter preparedness in our region, it’s important to have home heating backup plans. Have backup heating options that are indoor-safe, such as propane fireplace inserts or space heaters.

PepUp offers emergency heating oil delivery on Delmarva and throughout our delivery service area in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia, so you can call us 24/7/365 for emergency delivery at 800-638-7802. We’ll deliver your heating oil quickly. Having a plan in place for while we’re on the way will help you, your family, and your water pipes stay warm and safe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Home Heating Oil Systems

If you’re new to home heating oil, you may have questions our technicians can answer.

Here are some of the most common questions our customers have about heating oil furnaces, efficiency, and challenges.

Homes use about 5.3 gallons of oil daily when temperatures drop to 30 degrees and around 4.5 gallons on days when it’s 35 degrees.* This means that a typical home in the Delmarva area can expect to use approximately 4.9 gallons of heating oil per day during the winter months. With a 275-gallon tank, this supply should last about 56 days at this daily usage rate.

*Depending on variables like your thermostat settings, home insulation, and heating system efficiency, your usage may be different. This is just a general guideline.

While oil heating has its advantages, several drawbacks contribute to its declining use. Here are some key disadvantages of heating with oil:

  • Price Volatility: The cost of furnace oil can fluctuate significantly, much like other petroleum products. Currently, it is more expensive than any other heating fuel, costing up to 50 percent more than propane.
  • Spill Risks: Oil heating systems, including tanks, are susceptible to leaks, especially if not well maintained. In the event of a spill, it’s essential to call residential environmental response professionals promptly to clean up and prevent contamination from reaching groundwater.
  • Environmental Concerns: Burning furnace oil releases greenhouse gases and other harmful pollutants, such as CO2, nitrogen oxides, VOCs, and aromatic hydrocarbons, contributing to air pollution since it’s a non-renewable fossil fuel.
  • Maintenance Requirements: Oil heating systems require regular upkeep to remain operational and avert spills or fires. This maintenance comes with additional costs.

Looking for a cleaner, greener, and more wallet-friendly home heating solution? Learn more about swapping your heating oil furnace for propane-powered heat.

The cost of oil heating includes the cost of fuel, system efficiency, and your home heating needs. Heating oil systems can be more expensive to fuel than electric or propane systems when oil prices are high.

Older oil boilers are usually less efficient than newer models or propane systems, and the cost to heat your home will be affected by the weather, the size of your home, and its energy efficiency. Transitioning to a more efficient or alternative heating system can lead to long-term savings, especially if current systems are outdated or costly to operate.


PepUp heating oil and petroleum fuels delivery driver Pat Quail

Meet Contributor and PepUp Petroleum Delivery Driver, Pat Quail

PepUp heating oil customers in our Georgetown, DE, district may recognize this familiar face. Pat Quail has been delivering home heating oil to our customers for six years, and he always has a minute for a question or a friendly chat.

The post Heating oil delivery and use: The 5 best tips from Delmarva residents first appeared on PepUp.

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