An essential guide to help oil-heated households prepare early, stay warm and avoid winter disruptions.
The checklist offers clear, straightforward advice on everything from ordering heating oil in advance to checking oil tanks, booking a boiler service and exploring flexible payment options.
Additionally, it encourages households to ensure that older family members, friends and neighbours are aware of the Cold Weather Priority (CWP) scheme, which helps UKIFDA distributors prioritise deliveries for those aged 75 and over, especially during extreme cold weather or fuel shortages.
The guide also gives up-to-date information on the latest resources and organisations that offer assistance for those needing help with their home heating this winter. It further directs heating oil users to various winter financial aid schemes available through the government across the UK.
For the millions of rural households not connected to the gas grid, heating oil is crucial for keeping homes warm and maintaining comfortable living conditions throughout the winter months. UKIFDA’s checklist offers practical steps to help users proactively manage their oil levels and keep their systems running efficiently as temperatures drop.
This initiative reinforces UKIFDA’s commitment to promoting fair and sustainable heating choices for the UK’s 1.7 million oil-heated households, ensuring they stay informed, supported and prepared for the winter ahead. UKIFDA also supports member distributors in meeting the challenges of today’s changing energy environment.
Ken Cronin, CEO of UKIFDA, encourages heating oil users to take action now:
“Our message is simple, preparation pays off. Getting winter-ready now can make a big difference when the colder weather arrives.
“UKIFDA member distributors play a crucial role in rural communities. They understand local challenges and are committed to delivering reliable, professional service, from fuel deliveries and payment support to advice on initiatives like the Cold Weather Priority scheme.”
To find out more about the UKIFDA Winter Heating Checklist 2025, please click here or download it here.
29th October 2025
