During power outages, Michigan oilheat service providers receive many calls from customers who have fuel but can’t get heat. Unfortunately, your heating oil company, as much as they would like to, cannot help you get your heat back in this type of situation.
That’s because heating systems will not run without electricity—no matter whether your fuel is heating oil, natural gas, propane or obviously, electricity. (Only some very old heating systems can operate without power).
If your home is without power for an extended period of time, unplug appliances and turn off circuit breakers. This will prevent surges when the electricity returns.
Once you have power back, make sure there is no standing water in your basement. If your system requires service to get it started again, for safety reasons it cannot be worked on if water is pooling around it.
If flood water reached your heating system, call your heating oil service provider to do an inspection before you restart it. The valves and controls are vulnerable to water damage—even if it cannot be seen. Corrosion begins inside the valves, and damage may not be apparent, even if the outside is clean and dry.
If the area around your heating system has remained dry, check that the system’s power switch and circuit breakers are back on before you try restarting your system,. Remember not to press your unit’s reset button more than once. Pushing the reset button too many times can flood your system with oil, resulting in a costly repair.
If a big storm is on the horizon, there’s a strong possibility that you may lose power for a while. Here are a few tips to help you be ready.
Feel free to contact your local oilheat service provider for further advice.