Heating Oil
Q: Are your prices competitive?
A: Yes. One of the things that allows us to be competitive is our storage capacity. We buy in larger quantities than some fuel dealers, which means a lower cost for us and a lower price for you. That said, tt’s also important to remember that as a full-service fuel company our prices may not always be the lowest in our market, but we offer you advantages that fuel discounters don’t. For example, we have a dedicated team of highly-trained technicians, some of whom are always on call for you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Q: Which way are prices likely to go?
A: We wish we could tell you, but we have no idea. There are so many factors that could send prices up or down at any time. Just look at prices in 2008, when many analysts were saying oil could go up to $200 a barrel, but then it dropped to $50 a barrel instead. In two of the last five years, prices dropped during the heating season. There’s really no way to predict fuel prices.
Propane
Q: Is propane gas a safe fuel?
A: Yes, when used properly. Although propane gas is naturally colorless and odorless, an odorant is added to alert users in the event of a leak. To be familiar with the odor of propane gas, ask us for a sniff test. Storage, use and handling of propane fall under the standards adopted by the National Fire Protection Association, Title 49 USC, and approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
Q: Is propane gas readily available?
A: In the past there have been no significant disruptions in supplying propane. Approximately 90% of the propane consumed in the United States is produced domestically. Of the remaining 10%, which is imported via pipeline, tanker, boat or other means of transport, a large percentage comes from Canada.
Q: How is the price of propane gas determined?
A: The propane gas business is competitive and each company sets its own pricing policy. Most companies price propane gas so that the more you buy per year, the less you pay per unit.
Propane gas prices are usually based on a customer’s estimated annual use. When a customer uses additional propane gas appliances, total consumption and cost increase but the unit cost may be reduced. By the same token, if gas use decreases, the customer will likely pay a higher price per unit.
Another factor that can determine the price of propane, as with any other fuel, is the cost of acquiring the product from wholesalers. Price fluctuation may vary depending on a number of factors. Advance planning by a consumer can help control these costs (i.e., budget plans, fixed-price programs, etc.)
Q: How does the cost of propane gas differ from that of other fuels?
A: Normally the propane gas company owns all equipment, including the tanks and regulators. Therefore, the price of propane gas to the customer may include a charge for use and maintaining equipment. For other fuels, the customer owns the equipment and the price covers only the fuel.
Q: Why do prices vary from one dealer to another?
A: Propane dealers operate in a competitive marketplace and prices may vary among companies. Transportation costs contribute to geographic variations in price. Companies that provide complete 24-hour-a-day, 7-day-a-week service are usually more expensive than companies that offer limited service hours. Also, a few companies only sell propane and offer no other services. Choose a level of comfort to suit your needs.
Q: Can you use propane gas with all appliances?
A: Some appliances are specifically manufactured to use propane gas. Some may be converted from natural gas to propane use. Mobile or manufactured homes and recreational vehicles must use appliances, such as water heaters and heating equipment, that are approved by the American National Standards Institute for propane use (each appliance should have a manufacturer’s label for its intended use). Also, air intakes are necessary when using propane appliances in these homes, but are not required for standard housing equipment. You can always contact us for more details. An important note: Do not change the air supply to the appliances in your home. Always follow the manufacturers’ guidelines.
Q: Do you require a credit application prior to delivering fuel?
A: Yes. It is now common practice for any company that grants credit to request a credit application from customers.
Q: How do I know when I am due for a delivery?
A: If you are on an automatic delivery delivery, your propane supplier will know when to fill your tank(s). They monitor your consumption and refill your tank(s) accordingly. If you are on will-call delivery, most propane suppliers ask you to call to schedule a delivery when your tank gauge is at 30%.
Q: What happens if I run out of propane?
- Close all propane tank or cylinder supply valves.
- Call us.
Q: How can I tell if there is a gas leak?
First and foremost, you can tell there is a gas leak by the smell. As a protective measure for your safety, a strong odor is added to the propane so that you will easily be able to detect the smell. Make sure your entire family can recognize the odor of propane gas.
Under some conditions, such as when people have colds, allergies or sinus congestion, or there is a presence of strong cooking odors, you may not smell a gas leak; therefore, it is recommended that you purchase a propane gas/carbon monoxide detector and install it in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Call us for additional information.
Q: What should I do if I smell gas?
A: Take immediate action! If you smell gas in your house, camper, RV, workplace or around any gas equipment:
- Put out smoking materials and other open flames.
- Do not turn light switches, appliances or thermostats on or off, and do not use the telephone. An electric spark could ignite the gas.
- Promptly get everyone out of the building, vehicle, RV, trailer or area.
- Close all gas tanks or cylinder supply valves.
- Call us from a neighbor’s telephone.
- Stay outside until the problem has been corrected.
