Every home is different, and several factors influence how much heat your property needs, including:
Many older homes using heating oil were built before modern insulation standards, which means they can lose heat more quickly and cost more to keep warm. Improving your home’s energy efficiency can make a noticeable difference to comfort and running costs.
A well‑insulated home stays warmer for longer and helps reduce your heating oil bills—especially if you live in an older property.
Even small upgrades can cut heat loss and save energy. Many organisations offer guidance to help you understand where your home could be improved.
Loft, roof and wall insulation – reducing heat loss through the building fabric
Energy‑efficient doors and windows – improving thermal performance and reducing draughts
Floor insulation and draught proofing – preventing cold air entering and warm air escaping
Heating controls and thermostats – helping you manage your heating more efficiently
Depending on where you live in the UK or Ireland, you may be eligible for financial support to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
If you live in England or Wales click here
If you live in Northern Ireland, click here
If you live in Scotland, click here
If you live in Ireland, click here
Heating oil remains a dependable and cost‑effective solution. As the industry moves toward renewable liquid fuels such as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), there are steps you can take now to prepare your home for lower‑carbon heating – often using your existing system.
You could consider:
Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is a renewable liquid fuel that offers a lower‑carbon alternative to traditional heating oil. With the right policy support, HVO could become a mainstream option for UK and Irish households.
Find out more about HVO and how it could benefit your home here
