If you have questions about Densmore Oil Company’s heating fuel and HVAC services in Southeastern Connecticut or Southwestern Rhode Island, chances are other people have them, too. Browse through the Q&A below to learn the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Don’t see your question answered? Feel free to ask our owner, Jamie Densmore, or contact a team member to submit your question.
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Q: What is heating oil and what is Bioheat® fuel?
Heating oil, known as oil, fuel oil, home heating oil, and HHO, is a low-viscosity liquid petroleum fuel product that is refined and used as a heat source. Bioheat® fuel is the newer, lower-carbon version of heating oil that Densmore delivers. Bioheat® fuel works seamlessly in your home heating equipment, producing fewer emissions and keeping our state cleaner. Every delivery of oil from Densmore is actually eco-friendly Bioheat® fuel.
Q: Is fuel oil safe?
Yes, fuel oil/Bioheat® fuel is a safe and nonexplosive fuel source. It is fire-resistant because of its high flash point of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. It also produces visible warning signs like smoke if a heating system malfunction were to occur, meaning oil users can benefit from home security.
Q: How can I monitor my home heating oil levels?
The simplest way is to sign up for automatic fuel delivery, in which you leave your oil ordering schedule in our hands. If you prefer to call in and place orders manually, you can read your oil tank gauge, which is like your car’s gas gauge. You should call us for a refill when you are between 1/2 and 1/4 capacity, which gives us about a week’s notice to deliver your fuel, or you can simplify the process by signing up for automatic fuel delivery.
Q: How does the weather affect heating oil usage?
The colder the temperatures are, the more heating oil a furnace or boiler will need to provide warmth. During the dead of winter, you will go through oil more quickly than in the spring or fall. Other factors can affect heating oil usage too, such as personal heating preference, home size, and furnace or boiler efficiency—that’s why it’s so important to frequently check your oil tank gauge or sign up for automatic oil delivery.
Q: What are the advantages of using home heating oil?
Heating oil has long since been recognized as a safe heating fuel since it is nonexplosive. It’s also affordable, abundant, burns efficiently, and is getting cleaner and cleaner with environmental advancement technologies such as ULS and biodiesel. The fuel we deliver is the only liquid fuel that, as technology advances, has the capability to get to net-zero carbon emissions.
Q: How much does heating oil cost?
The price varies by location, supply, and demand, similar to gas prices for your car. To check today’s price before placing an order, just give our office a call. We’re transparent about all of our business practices, and that includes our fuel oil delivery pricing. Your price includes our premium HEATDOC™ additive at no extra cost!
Q: Do you offer tank testing?
We do. In addition to your typical routine testing, we are also happy to work with potential home buyers, new homeowners, realtors, and home inspectors.
Q: How do I keep my furnace or boiler running smoothly?
The best way to keep your furnace or boiler running smoothly is to order fuel regularly, get it regularly maintained by a qualified technician, and keep an eye out for any signs of malfunction including smoke, clanging, or strong smells. Preventative steps include scheduling an annual tune-up, signing up for a service plan, and visually inspecting your system regularly.
Q: What should I do if my heating system malfunctions?
If it needs a repair or simply shuts down, you should give us a call. If you are experiencing an emergency, evacuate the area and call 911. Heating system malfunctions are rare, but possible, and should be handled by a professional.
Q: How often should I have my furnace or boiler serviced?
You should have a preventative maintenance tune-up performed once a year on your furnace or boiler (and air conditioner, for that matter). This will help your heating system work more efficiently, use less fuel, last longer, have a lower chance of breaking down, and maintain a manufacturer’s warranty.
Q: What is the average lifespan of a furnace or boiler?
The average furnace or boiler lasts about 15–20 years when cared for properly. However, the lifespan can vary based on frequency of use, part replacement and maintenance, climate, and other factors. Getting your heating equipment serviced at least once per year is key to a long lifespan.
Q: Do you offer financing?
Yes, we do! If you are interested in applying for financing for new, high-efficiency home comfort equipment, please visit our financing page for more information.
Q: What types of air conditioning systems are available?
The two main types of air conditioners include central A/C and ductless mini-split models. The main difference is right in the name—central A/C requires internal ductwork, whereas ductless mini-split air conditioners do not. Ductless units can attach to any wall and are popular in garages, finished attics, additions, and other places ductwork does not reach.
Q: I have an old air conditioner that uses R22 refrigerant. Can you service it?
We are happy to service your R22 equipment. Just keep in mind that R22 refrigerant has been banned and therefore can no longer be produced or sold in the US, meaning that repairs may become more expensive over time. It may be more cost-efficient for you to upgrade to a new system, which uses chlorine-free R410A refrigerant. Get in touch if you’re interested in a new, higher-efficiency, eco-friendly unit.
Q: Should I use ductless or central air conditioning?
If your home has a central ducted heating system, a central air conditioning unit would integrate seamlessly and provide invisible cooling. If you don’t have central ductwork, or have areas in your home without it, one or more ductless mini-splits might be the way to go. If you’re still not sure, contact us to talk to an expert.
Q: How often should I have my air conditioner serviced?
Experts around the globe recommend that air conditioners have preventative maintenance once per year. This will prevent inefficiency issues, clogs, wear and tear, and other small issues. Contact us to schedule your air conditioner’s preventative tune-up and help your unit work efficiently for years to come. We recommend signing up for an A/C service plan, which includes your annual tune-up.
Q: How long does an air conditioner usually last?
Central A/C units tend to last between 12 and 20 years, depending on the level of maintenance the homeowner keeps up with. Ductless mini-splits can last from 15–20 years, depending on the same circumstances as above. It’s important to remember, though, that if your A/C is more than 10 years old, it’s likely running at a much lower efficiency than new units. You could save as much as 30% on annual energy costs by upgrading to a new central or ductless air conditioning system.
Q: Are your plumbers licensed?
Of course! Our highly trained team is led by a P1 Master Technician with more than three decades of experience. We promise to exceed your expectations in any plumbing service you’d like to call us for.
Q: What plumbing services do you offer?
We employ licensed plumbers who offer the following services to our CT and RI customers: drips and leaks, plumbing fixtures, water pumps, equipment installs and replacement, remodeling, water filtration systems, pools, drain cleaning, and more!
Q: How do I schedule plumbing service?
Booking a plumbing appointment is simple—just get in touch with us via our online contact form or phone number, (860) 536-7927. A friendly representative will be there to assist you and schedule an appointment that works well with your busy schedule. If you’re not yet a customer, please fill out this form, so we can get to know you a little better. Thank you for trusting Densmore with your plumbing needs!
Q: What are the benefits of choosing a full-service comfort provider?
When you do business with a full-service energy provider, you can count on a one-stop shop for your complete home comfort needs. Unlike discount fuel or delivery-only companies, full-service energy providers offer all of your home comfort needs.
Q: Why should I choose Densmore as my full-service company?
Densmore is a local, family-owned company that considers it a privilege to serve your home. We provide premium fuel, storage of the gallons you need, qualified HVAC technicians, and more. We truly provide the best value for your investment.
Q: I am moving out of the area. How do I let you know?
We’re sorry to see you go. Please contact us if you would like to stop automatic fuel delivery. If you are moving to another property within our delivery range, we look forward to establishing a new account for your new home—just get in touch to let us know your new address.
Q: I am moving into the area. How do I become a customer?
Welcome to the neighborhood! We would consider it a privilege to provide your home comfort and fuel delivery. Please fill out this form to become Densmore’s newest customer, and we will contact you afterward with some next steps you can take to get the most out of your home comfort experience with us.
