What Does It Mean If Heating Oil Is “Gelling”?

Written on: January 18, 2021

If you live in an area that experiences cold winters the way we do here in the Hudson Valley, using normal, untreated heating oil can sometimes be problematic – especially if your storage tank is outdoors.

That’s because when temperatures drop below 20 degrees, the paraffin contained in heating oil begins to separate from the oil and crystallize; these waxy crystals will clog the fuel line, slowing the flow of oil and eventually stopping your heating system (this process is called gelling).

How Gelling Affects Your Heating System

Gelling can affect your system in several different areas, including your:

• Heating Oil Tank — When heating oil gels in the tank, the heavier sludge settles to the bottom; as more oil settles, less interior tank space and less burnable oil remains.
• Heating Oil Lines — As gelled oil is pumped through heating oil lines it builds on the walls, narrowing the passage way. With less fuel reaching the igniter, efficiency suffers.
• Atomizing Nozzle — The opening at the end of the atomizing nozzle is very small, but it’s designed to allow heating oil to pass through so it can be misted for combustion. Gelled fuel can block that nozzle, meaning that less oil will get through to convert to heat.
• Fuel Filter — As gelled oil is forced through the filter, it clogs quickly and needs more frequent replacement.

Treated Heating Oil: A Cold Weather Solution

At Downey Energy, we offer quality heating oil that is treated with additives to lower its gel point. Economical, efficient, and cold-resistant, our blended oil will keep the heat coming through the long, cold Hudson Valley winter.

As our service area’s most reliable fuel supplier, Downey Energy is the go-to source for cold weather fuel solutions. Contact us today to learn more about heating oil deliveries in Dutchess County, Orange County, Putnam County and northern Westchester County, NY!