Frequently Asked Questions: Heating Fuel

What happens if prices drop after I Pre-Buy my oil?
Price Protection allows you to pay a one-time annual fee and if the price of oil drops, your price per gallon will decrease, passing on the savings to you. If you decline price protection, your price per gallon remains the same even if the price drops.

How is my fuel price determined?
There are so many factors that affect fuel prices, including supply and demand, the weather, global events and speculation. Fortunately, you have options that can help stabilize your fuel price.

How many gallons should I purchase this year?
To make things easier, we’ve estimated the number of gallons you may need. A winter that’s colder than average will affect how much fuel you end up using.

How long does this Pre-Buy program stay in effect?
The program usually lasts through June of the following year. It is important to estimate your expected use as accurately as possible. If you need help with this, call us at 215.799.2003.

Am I better off Pre-Buying my fuel or paying as I go?
In 7 out of the last 10 years, people who chose a Pre-Buy plan have come out ahead. But some customers are fine just paying our market price, which can move up or down. However, if you are worried that the price of heating oil could spike up, enrolling in our Pre-Buy plan can give you peace of mind.

What happens if I don’t use all my gallons?
A credit will remain on your account next year for the cost of any undelivered fuel.

What if I need more fuel than I have purchased?
We will charge you our competitive market rate for any deliveries you may need after your supply of pre-purchased fuel is delivered.

What if I don’t do anything?
Once your Pre-Buy gallon balance is exhausted, you will be charged the current market rate for any additional gallons you may require. You can sign up for one of our Budget plans to save money. This is not automatic and will require you to contact us to set up. Contact us at 215.799.2003 or visit our heating oil plans page to learn more.

What is BioFuel? Does it help my system?
BioFuel is an American-made fuel primarily made from soybean oil. It decreases our carbon footprint by reducing greenhouse gas emissions to levels lower than that of even natural gas. BioFuel works along with the low sulfur fuel oil to keep your system running cleaner. It also helps American farmers create demand for their products. To learn more about BioFuel click here.

How much BioFuel is in my fuel?
We maintain an approximate 10% blend.

Do you have a budget plan?
Yes, Budget Standard is a convenient, cost-effective plan that allows you to pay for your home heating needs in twelve equal monthly installments based on your predicted usage for the year.

How do you know when to deliver?
We base your automatic delivery schedule by calculating your oil usage in conjunction with outdoor temperatures.

Do you offer Senior discounts and Military discounts?
We offer both Senior and Military discounts, which can be combined.