How to Pay for Heating Oil
Using oil heat may seem antiquated to some, but it can be a warm and economical way to heat your home during the winter. The main issue with oil heat is when and how to buy it. Some simple strategies can cut your heating oil costs and allow you to keep your home warm without worry. Talk with a representative from your oil company to find out what options are available. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Call several local oil companies and compare prices.
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Find out if your oil company allows for locked-in rates, which are a fixed rate on the price per gallon of your heating oil. The fixed rate is the highest price you will pay per gallon for the year. If the price of oil fluctuates, you may pay less per gallon, but never more with a locked-in rate.
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Research your oil company's automatic delivery options. Many companies offer a monthly payment plan to fill, service and clean your oil tank for a single fee.
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Ask your oil company about loyal customer, senior and bulk discounts. Many oil companies reward customer loyalty with discounts.
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Using your oil company's cash on delivery (C.O.D.) service may also land you a discount. Payment in cash or via credit card the day of delivery is convenient for both you and your oil company.
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Think about joining an oil buying group in your local area. An oil buying group is a larger number of people buying oil and can provide discounts on regular oil prices.
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Find out if you are eligible for a local, state or government heat assistance program. These programs assist low-income families in paying their heating and energy bills.
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Consider filling your oil tank during the summer when the demand for heating oil is less and so are the prices.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit oil storage tank 44 image by Jim Parkin from Fotolia.com