The domestic heating oil market can be complex and many people find it difficult to know where to start when looking for the best deal.
A quick internet search will take you to a number of comparison websites which promise you the lowest price on your heating oil. In reality, not all fuel suppliers quotes will be included in these comparisons and you may find that the price is quite often as cheap, if not cheaper, if you call your local supplier direct.
Another drawback with a comparison website is you don’t know who you will get your delivery from until the very last minute. And it may be that your order is delivered from a different supplier each time. Some people may be happy to do this, however there are often more benefits if you purchase your oil on a regular basis from one local supplier.
By using the same supplier for each delivery you can start to build a relationship which will mean you‘ll get the best customer service, and ultimately make your life easier in the long run.
Read on to find some reasons to buy direct from a supplier such as Carnegie Fuels
7 Reasons to buy heating oil from a fuel distributor
#1 Excellent customer service
When it comes to choosing a heating oil supplier, there is more to take into consideration than simply price. Prices are constantly changing, so just because one supplier is the cheapest one time, it doesn’t mean they will be the next. By finding a supplier that provides excellent customer service time and time again you can often find a more personal service which will benefit you in the long term than some of the bigger suppliers who focus solely on price.
#2 Ease of delivery and where possible the same driver
If you live in a more remote location chances are you’ve had to deal with drivers getting lost or calling for directions when they have limited mobile coverage. We know how frustrating this can be and how much time can be lost. By using the same supplier, the drivers get to know your property and exactly where to go each time.
In addition your driver knows exactly where your oil tank is located; meaning that should you need to be out on the day of delivery, they can easily get on with the job without prying around your garden. Most suppliers will save all these delivery notes on file, so that they are always easily accessible.
#3 Monthly budget plans to spread the cost of your heating oil over 12 months
Many suppliers offer different payment plans to help you manage the cost of your deliveries. Even though a fuel distributor will offer highly competitive prices, having your tank filled with heating oil can be an unwelcome expense if you have to pay upfront unexpectedly. A monthly budget plan which helps you spread the cost throughout the year can be a much more financially viable option for most households.
#4 Online ordering whenever you need it
Many customers lead busy lifestyles, with their focus often on working long hours or bringing up families – and often both. So to ensure that the task of ordering home heating oil can be done easily and quickly and at a time when it suits you, find a distributor with an easy-to-use online ordering system which is available 24/7 – 365 days a year.
#5 Fuel monitoring systems
As part of their service, many suppliers can advise and install a fuel monitoring system for you which means you will be alerted when the fuel left in your tank reaches a certain level. Many suppliers will then schedule a delivery for you before your tank gets too empty, meaning you never have to worry about running out of fuel again.
Related Content: Watchman Monitoring Systems
#6 Advice and wider service provision
Buying direct from a fuel distributor, it will be far easier to access advice either by phone or email. Whether that is understanding how much fuel you need, whether you require an additive or what you should do if there is a leak. Our operators can either solve your problem or quickly point you in the right direction of who can.
At Carnegie Fuels we are also suppliers of Kingspan Titan Tanks and Fuelproof steel tanks. As your tank starts to age, we are here to support you with an updated version, advising you on the best options for your available space and usage.
#7 Look after their customers despite the unexpected
Bad weather, fuel shortages, pandemics… ordering direct and regularly from a fuel distributor will ensure you are well looked after in times of need.
Recently, we have seen comparison websites turn off communications or only provide email support when they have been overwhelmed or left short staffed. With an independent fuel distributor you are far more likely to be able to speak to a person directly on the phone and get an answer to your queries or concerns.
It is always worthwhile taking a look at reviews for companies before ordering, price isn’t everything.
At Carnegie Fuels, we always prioritise our existing clients first rather than overwhelming our service slots and leaving loyal customers disappointed. And you can rely on us to be there to answer your call, especially when times are tough.
In Summary, should I buy heating oil from a comparison website?
In summary, there are many benefits to buying your heating oil directly from a local distributor. Here at Carnegie Fuels we pride ourselves on providing a friendly, attentive and personalised service for all of our customers. By building these relationships we find that people will return to us time and time again for their heating oil.
