It’s Not Too Late To Lock in Heating Oil Orders

Home heating oil is a commodity with a very volatile marketplace, because manufacture tends to be constant while demand peaks seasonally. As a result, homeowners with furnaces that rely on oil often manage costs by placing advance orders, locking in prices that predate the demand surge and earmarking delivery for the midseason dates when they need it most. The longer you wait in the season to lock in those orders, the more expensive it tends to be. Luckily, the price doesn’t usually peak until mid to late winter, so you can still save money by locking in a late January of February order before the first of the year.

Estimating Home Heating Oil Consumption

To make a smart purchase this winter, you need to have a clear idea about how much you’re likely to use, and that’s easier when you have records from last year. If you don’t have those records, then you need to work with a provider of home heating oil Sullivan County NY who can help you calculate your likely heating oil consumption. Larger businesses have more data for this estimate, so they can more easily provide you with a reference point. It’s important to remember those numbers are average estimates, though.

To adjust the estimates for your home, remember to add or subtract consumption by calculating the cost per square foot precisely. It’s also important to dial your estimates up or down according to the insulation factor of your home and the presence of alternative heating systems like wood burning stoves or fireplaces.

When To Refill Oil Reserves

It’s a good idea to refill when you still estimate you’ll have some oil left. That way, if you have an unseasonably cold streak, you’ll still have some in the tank on your regular delivery date. It can be expensive to move up that schedule if your provider decides to make it that way. Of course, that’s a good reason to work with a provider who’s dedication to customer service gives you peace of mind when you need to change a date for your order.