Emergencies don’t always happen during business hours. Whether it’s a leak, a heating issue, or a fuel spill, it’s important to know what to do while you wait for help. Below are some frequently asked questions and our guidance to keep you, your home, and the environment safe.
OIL SPILL: What should I do if I have a fuel oil spill?
Follow the 4C’s of Spill Response:
1. COMMUNICATE
Immediately report the spill:
- Call to report the spill at 800-966-1102
- If the spill is large or threatens health/safety, call 911
2. CONTROL
Stop the source if it is safe to do so. Plug or contain the leak using any available method (turn off valves, place a container under the leak, etc.)
3. CONTAIN
Use a spill kit, sorbent pads, and granular oil sorbents (ex: sand, kitty litter, pellets) to prevent the spill from entering drains, waterways, or flowing into environmentally sensitive areas.
4. CLEANUP
Once the spill has been absorbed, collect and dispose of used pads, absorbents per local regulations. Use trash bags, drums, or pails as needed based on the volume of the spill.
DECONTAMINATE
After the spill has been removed, you will need to thoroughly clean the area using degreasers, detergents, or other appropriate neutralizers to properly clean the area to be sure the site is safe and free from contaminants.
WATER TANK LEAK: What if I have a leaking water tank and no one is available until the next business day?
To reduce water damage:
- Turn off the water supply to the tank.
Look for a shutoff valve directly on or near the tank. - Can’t find the tank shutoff?
Locate and turn off the main water shutoff for your home. - If it’s an electric water heater, also shut off the power at your breaker panel to avoid damage or hazard.
- Mop up standing water or use towels to prevent it from spreading.
Then, call our office on the next business day to schedule service.
FURNACE/BOILER WON’T START: What can I do until someone can come out?
If your furnace or boiler isn’t working and it’s not an emergency:
- Check your thermostat to ensure it’s set to “heat” and your temperature is above room temp.
- If you’re not out of fuel or uncertain, don’t attempt repairs or restarts yourself.
Call our office on the next business day to book service.
HEAT PUMP NOT WORKING: What should I do?
If your heat pump isn’t turning on:
- Check the thermostat. Make sure it’s set to “heat” or “cool” and the desired temperature is correct.
- Inspect your electrical panel. Reset any tripped breakers.
- If the outdoor unit is covered in ice, do not try to chip it off. Let it thaw naturally or wait for assistance.
- If these quick checks don’t work, call us on the next business day.
HOW CAN I AVOID RUNNING OUT OF HEATING OIL OR KEROSENE?
The best way to avoid running out is to sign up for automatic delivery. Our system tracks your fuel usage and schedules deliveries before your tank gets too low.
Auto-delivery is the most reliable way to stay warm and avoid service disruptions.
If you’re already on automatic delivery and think you’re running low on fuel, please call our office so we can schedule you if needed.
If you’re not on automatic delivery, we encourage you to call us to request a delivery and ask about signing up.
Still unsure? When in doubt, call our office at 802-860-4090.
We’re here to help—safely and efficiently.
DISCLAIMER: The information conveyed in this blog is meant as general guidance for our Co-op members, and we do not recommend attempting repairs or fixes by yourself. In the case of an emergency, call 911. For other inquiries, call our office at 802-860-4090.
