5 Common Mistakes When Ordering Heating Oil
Don't Make These Heating Oil Ordering Mistakes
Ordering heating oil seems straightforward, but common mistakes can cost you money, cause inconvenience, or even damage your heating system. Here are five errors to avoid.
Mistake 1: Not Comparing Prices
The Problem Many people order from the same supplier every time without checking competitors. This loyalty rarely pays off—heating oil suppliers don't typically reward long-term customers with better rates.
The Cost Price differences of 10-20 pence per litre are common. On a 1,000 litre order, that's £100-£200 lost.
The Solution Compare prices every time you order. Use a comparison service like OilCompare to check multiple suppliers in seconds. It takes a minute and could save you hundreds of pounds annually.
Mistake 2: Waiting Until the Tank Is Empty
The Problem
- Emergency premiums – Suppliers may charge extra for urgent deliveries
- Limited options – You can't wait for the best price if you need oil immediately
- System damage – Running a boiler on an empty tank can draw in sediment and damage the system
- Cold house – If suppliers are busy, you might be without heating temporarily
The Solution Order when your tank reaches 25-30% capacity. This gives you time to find the best price and schedule a convenient delivery slot.
Mistake 3: Not Checking Your Tank Before Delivery
The Problem
- Order more oil than your tank can hold (spillages are messy, costly, and environmentally harmful)
- Order unnecessarily when you have more than you thought
- Underestimate and need another delivery soon
The Solution Check your tank gauge before ordering. If you don't have a gauge, use a dipstick or sight tube. Know your tank's total capacity too—common sizes are 1,000, 1,200, or 2,500 litres.
Mistake 4: Ignoring Tank Maintenance
The Problem
- Leaks – Old plastic tanks can crack; steel tanks corrode
- Water contamination – Condensation inside tanks can contaminate oil
- Sludge buildup – Sediment accumulates at the bottom over time
- Insurance issues – Some insurers won't cover damage from unmaintained tanks
The Solution
- Inspect your tank annually for signs of wear, cracks, or damage
- Consider a tank replacement if it's over 20 years old
- Use a water-absorbing additive or have the tank cleaned periodically
- Ensure your tank meets current regulations (bunded tanks are now required for new installations)
Mistake 5: Focusing Only on Price Per Litre
The Problem The cheapest pence-per-litre price isn't always the best deal. Other factors matter:
- Minimum orders – Some suppliers have high minimums that don't suit your needs
- Delivery charges – A few suppliers add separate delivery fees
- Payment terms – Paying by card might incur a surcharge
- Service quality – The cheapest supplier isn't always the most reliable
The Solution Compare total costs, not just unit prices. Check delivery terms and read reviews before ordering from a new supplier. A slightly higher price from a reliable supplier often beats the absolute cheapest option that might let you down.
Quick Checklist Before Ordering
✅ Checked current tank level
✅ Calculated how much I need (leaving room for expansion)
✅ Compared prices from multiple suppliers
✅ Verified delivery date works for me
✅ Confirmed total cost including any fees
✅ Checked supplier reviews
Save Time: Use OilCompare
Following these tips doesn't have to be complicated. OilCompare shows you live prices from vetted suppliers in your area, making it easy to avoid the comparison mistake—the most costly error of all.
Enter your postcode and quantity to see today's best prices. It takes less than a minute and could save you significant money on every order.
Ready to Save on Heating Oil?
Compare prices from trusted UK suppliers and find the best deal for your next delivery.
Get Your Quote Now