26 Feb Clear a Path Before Your Heating Oil Delivery: A Simple Step That Makes a Big Difference

A Simple Winter Reminder from D.E. Duffey & Sons

When snow hits Delaware County and the Main Line, most homeowners rush to clear the driveway and front steps. But there’s one important area that often gets overlooked:

👉 The pathway to your heating oil fill pipe.

If you’re scheduled for a heating oil delivery from D.E. Duffey & Sons, taking a few minutes to shovel a clear path helps ensure a safe, fast, and uninterrupted refill — especially during heavy winter storms.

1. Keeps Your Delivery Technician Safe

Snow and ice create serious slip hazards. Our delivery professionals carry heavy hoses across your property, and icy walkways increase the risk of falls or injury. A clear path ensures safe access to your home.

2. Prevents Delivery Delays

When the oil fill pipe or vent pipe is buried under snow or ice, deliveries take longer. During peak winter weather, schedules are tight across Delaware County and the surrounding areas. Accessible fill pipes allow us to efficiently serve every customer.

3. Helps Avoid Missed Deliveries

If the fill pipe is completely blocked or unsafe to access, the driver may not be able to complete the delivery. That can mean delays — and running low on heating oil during freezing temperatures is something no homeowner wants to experience.

What Should You Clear?

Before your next heating oil delivery, make sure to:

• ✅ Shovel a clear 3-foot-wide path from your driveway to the fill pipe

• ✅ Remove snow and ice around both the fill pipe and vent pipe

• ✅ Clear snow off the fill cap

• ✅ Spread salt or sand on icy spots

• ✅ Secure pets during delivery

Even if you’re enrolled in automatic oil delivery, snow drifts can quickly bury pipes after a storm — so it’s always smart to double-check.

Watch for Snow Drifts After Nor’easters

Strong winds can pile snow several feet high against exterior walls, completely covering oil pipes. After the storm passes, take a quick walk around your home to confirm the area is accessible.

Not sure where your oil fill pipe is located? It’s typically:

• Along an exterior wall

• Near the front, side, or back of the home

• Connected directly to your indoor oil tank

Stay Warm This Winter with D.E. Duffey

For over 50 years, D.E. Duffey & Sons has provided reliable heating oil delivery and HVAC services throughout Delaware County and the Main Line. We’re committed to keeping your home warm — even during the toughest winter weather.

Need to schedule delivery or have questions about your oil service plan?
Call 610-940-1400 or visit:
https://deduffey.com/heating-cooling-installations/benefits-of-new-heating-equipment/

A few minutes of shoveling can help ensure uninterrupted home heating all season long. ❄️🔥