FAQs on Heating Oil Companies and HVAC Services

Full-service heating oil companies provide a wide array of services beyond just fuel delivery, such as system maintenance and repairs. In contrast, discount oil companies typically focus only on delivering heating oil, leaving homeowners to arrange separate services for maintenance and repairs.

Having your boiler serviced on an annual basis is recommended. Regular maintenance ensures your system operates efficiently, reduces the risk of breakdowns, and extends the life of your equipment.

A Market/Floating price plan means the cost of heating oil fluctuates based on current market conditions. You will receive an invoice based on the amount of oil delivered, with the cost determined by the market price on the delivery date. This plan allows you to potentially benefit from lower prices when the market is favourable but can also lead to higher costs during price increases.

A Fixed price plan locks in a set price per gallon of heating oil for a specified period, typically a year. This plan provides stability and predictability in fuel costs, as you pay the agreed-upon price regardless of market fluctuations. It helps with budgeting and can protect against price increases during the contract term.

A Pre-buy plan lets you purchase a specified quantity of heating oil at a fixed price before the start of the heating season. This plan offers protection against rising prices by securing the cost of oil in advance. It’s beneficial if you anticipate higher fuel costs and prefer to lock in a rate ahead of time.

A “Capped” price plan establishes a ceiling on the price per gallon of heating oil, but you can still take advantage of lower prices if the market rate drops below this cap. You pay either the capped rate or the lower market price, whichever is more favourable. This plan offers a balance between price protection and the potential for savings.

A “Budget payment” plan divides your annual heating oil expenses into equal monthly instalments, making it easier to manage your costs throughout the year. Payments are calculated based on your estimated annual fuel usage and the current price, providing consistent budgeting and reducing the impact of fluctuating oil costs.

A “Pre-pay” plan involves paying for heating oil in advance of delivery, either for a set amount of oil or over a specified period. This plan might provide savings compared to regular delivery prices. Prepaying helps with budgeting and ensures you have oil ready when needed, though it requires upfront payment.

A “Post-pay” plan requires payment for heating oil after it has been delivered. You receive an invoice for the number of gallons delivered at the agreed price, and payment is typically due within 30 days. This plan provides flexibility but may involve higher costs if market prices rise during the heating season.

When selecting a full-service heating oil company, consider its range of services, customer reviews, service agreements, and emergency service availability. It's also important to ensure they have a good reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction.

Yes, most full-service heating oil companies offer 24/7 emergency repair services to address any unexpected issues that may arise with your heating system.

Consistent HVAC maintenance boosts efficiency, cuts energy costs, prevents unplanned breakdowns, and lengthens the lifespan of your heating and cooling systems. It also ensures your system operates safely and effectively.

To schedule a maintenance service, contact the HVAC contractor directly through the contact information provided in our directory. Many contractors offer easy scheduling options, including online booking and phone appointments.

If your heating system breaks down unexpectedly, contact a full-service heating oil company or an HVAC contractor that offers emergency repair services. They can provide prompt assistance to restore your heating system to working order.

Boost your heating system's efficiency by scheduling regular maintenance, making timely repairs, and upgrading to energy-efficient models. Additionally, ensure your home is well-insulated and consider using programmable thermostats. Routine checks help the system operate efficiently, minimizing energy waste and expenses while improving overall performance and comfort.

A home heating tune-up involves inspecting, cleaning, and servicing your heating system. It improves efficiency, prevents breakdowns, extends equipment life, and ensures safety. Regular tune-ups help maintain optimal performance and reduce energy costs.

Yes, full-service heating oil companies can assist with upgrading your heating system. They offer consultations, recommend efficient models, and handle professional installations, helping you improve system performance and potentially access rebates.

If your heating oil runs out, contact your heating oil company for emergency delivery. To avoid future issues, consider automatic delivery services or a monitoring system to ensure a continuous oil supply.

Prevent frozen pipes by maintaining indoor temperatures above 55°F, insulating pipes, letting faucets drip slightly, opening cabinet doors, and sealing leaks. These measures help avoid burst pipes and costly repairs during cold weather.

A furnace or boiler typically lasts 15-20 years. Lifespan varies with maintenance, usage, and equipment quality. Regular servicing and timely repairs can extend its operational life and ensure efficient performance.

Replace air filters every 1-3 months, depending on filter type, system use, and indoor air quality. Frequent replacements maintain airflow, enhance system efficiency, and improve indoor air quality by removing dust and particulates.

A programmable thermostat lets you set specific temperatures for various times throughout the day, which helps in optimizing your heating and cooling schedules. Benefits include energy savings, cost reduction, and improved comfort by adjusting temperatures automatically based on your routine.