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Heating Oil Buying Guide

Heating oil is often used in homes across the UK and Ireland that are not connected to the gas grid. Whether you have been using heating oil for a long time or are moving into a home that relies on oil heating, making informed decisions can help you save money and ensure a smooth delivery process.

Prices for heating oil fluctuate throughout the year, so it is advisable to stay in touch with your local UKIFDA distributor to keep track of current prices. It is recommended to order your heating oil ahead of time to ensure the best prices and payment options.

Many UKIFDA distributors offer online ordering, making it easy for you to receive quotes and check current prices.

Find your local distributor here

Placing your order

When you place an order, here’s what your distributor will need to know:

Your details:

  • Name, address and postcode
  • Home, daytime and mobile telephone numbers
  • Email address
  • VAT number (if applicable)

Your tank:

  • Type of tank, age and manufacturer
  • Size of tank and type of connections
  • Height of connection above ground (will the driver need to use a ladder?)
  • The condition of the tank

Liquid fuel:

  • Type (e.g. kerosene, gas oil etc) and quantity required
  • Can the driver establish the tank contents before and during delivery?
  • What the fuel is being used for (information required by HMRC)
  • Is the fuel feeding an appliance, e.g. Aga
  • Can the delivery driver put a contents label on the tank

Accessing the tank:

  • Distance of the tank from where the tanker parks
  • Is there any restriction on size of tanker that can get access to the site?
  • Location within your property, e.g. behind the greenhouse
  • Can the delivery driver access the tank without special conditions, e.g. garage must be unlocked; access across a fence, dogs to be restrained?
  • Will you be there when the delivery is made?

How you want to pay:

  • Credit card or debit card
  • Budget payment plan
  • Cheque or other payment method

About buying groups

Communities often come together to make group purchases of home heating oil. By coordinating fuel deliveries, they can reduce costs, minimise tanker traffic in the area, and help lower carbon emissions.  To find out about your local buying group options, contact your local UKIFDA distributor.

Potential Benefits of a Buying Group

Lower prices due to bulk buying

Fewer deliveries, reducing carbon footprint

Less traffic disruption in your area

Possible Drawbacks of Buying Groups

Less flexibility on when you can receive your heating oil

Some groups require advance payments or membership fees

May not always get the best price compared to shopping around independently

Downloading our Customer Charter here will provide you with information about the service you can expect from a UKIFDA distributor.