Helping UK homes prepare for winter this year, the UK and Ireland Fuel Distributors Association (UKIFDA) alongside Oil Firing Technical Association (OFTEC) have compiled a checklist of five ways people who use heating oil can get ready for the colder weather, stay warm and buy efficiently.
1: Boiler maintenance
Over time, boilers become less efficient and tanks can become damaged. By checking both regularly you can be confident that the heating oil you buy is not wasted. It’s recommended to have your oil heating system serviced annually by a local OFTEC engineer, find a registered technician near you.
Mister C says “An annual boiler service will help reduce fuel bills and saves money on costly call-out fees for unexpected breakdowns.”
2: Book Your Heating Oil Delivery Early
UKIFDA suggest ordering your heating oil early this winter to avoid spikes in demand and winter-related delays which can lead to the risk of running out.
Mister C says “Emergency deliveries can be costly and not always immediately possible, check your tank and order when you have ¼ left.”
3: UKIFDA’s Cold Weather Priority Scheme
If you are 75+ or live with someone who is, please sign up for the free Cold Weather Priority (CWP) scheme set up by UKIFDA.
UKIFDA Cold Weather Priority Scheme The CWP scheme helps to identify customers who are 75+ so UK and Ireland Fuel Distributors Association (UKIFDA) member heating oil suppliers know who may be at risk. The UKIFDA distributors can then take proactive steps to prioritise fuel deliveries to these customers, particularly during times of fuel shortages or extreme cold weather.
Mister C says “If you or someone in your household is aged 75 or over and are interested in opting in to the programme, contact us here .“
4: Struggling To Pay
We understand the importance of keeping our vulnerable customers, and those struggling to pay for their oil, up to date with the latest guidance and support. The Government’s Help With Your Energy Bills guide advises on this year’s Cold Weather and Winter payments.
We can also help with spreading the cost of your heating oil over the year, with our pay monthly plan.
5: Choose a UKIFDA-Accredited Distributor
Contact your local UKIFDA heating oil distributor to check the oil price and find out about their payment and service options.
UKIFDA recommends you contact the distributor you use most regularly to discuss the price options available at the time of your order.
Mister C says “A good way to minimise the impact of heating oil costs is to set up a pay monthly account, ask our friendly team about this next time you call or find out more here.”
