As summer winds down in Nova Scotia, cooler evenings serve as a gentle reminder that heating season is just around the corner. A little prep work now can pay off with lower fuel bills, better comfort, and fewer mid-winter headaches. Here’s your late-August checklist.
- Schedule a Pre-Season Tune-Up — Before Everyone Else Does
Just like booking snow-tire appointments, furnace service slots fill up fast once the temperature drops. A professional cleaning and inspection keeps your oil burner and heating equipment running at peak performance and efficiency, and prevents unexpected breakdowns. Calling now can make sure you’re prepared for the cold.
- Replace (or Clean) Your Furnace Air Filter
A clogged air filter forces your system to work harder and burn more oil. Swap disposable air filters every 30–90 days (keep a check on them to make sure they’re not getting too dirty), or clean permanent ones according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make a note on your phone or calendar so it doesn’t slip through the cracks.
- Give Your Thermostat a Boost
Programmable and smart thermostats automatically lower the heat when you’re asleep or out of the house—saving up to 10 percent on annual heating costs. If you already have one, check the batteries and update the fall schedule soon. If not, ask the technician about easy-install options during your annual tune-up.
- Inspect Tank, Lines & Vents
- Oil tank: Look for rust spots, wet staining, or unstable legs.
- Fill & vent pipes: Clear away debris or obstructions so the oil delivery crew can access them safely.
- Fuel lines: Look for any signs of seepage or potential problems. Addressing small issues today avoids emergency service calls in January.
- Top Up Your Tank Early
Historically, heating-oil prices can bump up once demand surges in mid-to-late September. With the federal fuel charge on heating oil removed on April 1, 2025, filling your tank now can take advantage of potential lower seasonal pricing and the recent tax relief.
- Seal the Envelope
Look for drafts around windows, doors, and baseboards—they let precious heat slip out while inviting cold air in. Adding weatherstripping, caulk, or expandable foam where needed can be a small investment that can last for years.
- Test Safety Devices
Press the TEST buttons on smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Install new batteries if alarms don’t sound or replace units if past their expiry dates.
- Consider Long-Term Upgrades
If last winter’s heating bills were painful, autumn is a great time to price out high-efficiency oil furnaces. Ask us for details on the benefits and costs of these modern systems.
Bottom line: A few proactive steps in August can keep your home cozy and your budget intact all season long. Need help with any of the above? Reach out to Scotia Fuels by visiting us at https://scotiafuels.com/contact-us/, or better still, by calling us at 902-453-2121. We’ll answer all your questions, and we’ll make sure you greet the first chilly night with confidence—not surprises.