Winter isn't here yet, but the weather sure feels like it is. If you haven't taken care of your winter heating oil needs, now's the time to do that. If you're worried about the rising cost of heating oil, you should know that there are ways to save money while still keeping your home as warm as possible. Here are three simple steps you can follow to help control your heating oil costs. 

Fill Your Tank 

If you're about to schedule a service call with your heating oil provider, be sure to request a full tank. You may think you can save money by ordering less than a full tank of heating oil, but that's not necessarily the case. In fact, you may find that settling for less than a full tank may lead to further expenses later. First, a full tank of heating oil lasts longer. Second, a full tank of heating oil reduces the risk of moisture and condensation. Unfortunately, moisture and condensation can affect the quality of your heating oil and cause damage to the inside of your tank. Save money and protect your tank by starting with a full tank of heating oil. 

Weatherize your Home

If it's been a while since you weatherized your home, you can expect to use more heating oil this winter. Unfortunately, if you go through your heating oil quickly, you could end up needing to order a refill before winter is over. One way to stretch your heating oil and keep warmer this winter is to weatherize your home. Applying coating to your windows, insulating your attic, and sealing the cracks around your window and door frames, will help you stretch your heating oil this winter. 

Know Your Fuel Charges

If you want to save money on your heating oil this winter, make sure you identify all the fuel charges you're paying. There are several additional charges that will be tacked on to the purchase of your heating oil. Each of those charges increases the total amount you'll pay for your heating oil. Some of those fuel charges include delivery fees and fuel surcharges. It's important to note that your delivery fees may increase if you request after-hours or weekend deliveries. One way to reduce your cost is to plan your deliveries during normal operating hours. That way, you avoid the after-hours delivery charges. 

Don't pay too much to keep your family warm this winter. Use the tips provided here to save money on your heating oil.