Answers to the most common questions about CheapHeatingOil.com, our price data, and how heating oil works in the Northeast.
About Our Prices
Where do your prices come from?
Our prices come from three sources. The primary source is the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), which surveys residential heating oil dealers across the Northeast every week and publishes average prices by state. For New York, we also use NYSERDA regional pricing data. Heating oil dealers listed on our site can also submit their actual current price — these appear with a “Price Verified Today” badge.
How often are prices updated?
Our automated price update runs every morning at approximately 8am Eastern Time. EIA data is published weekly during heating season and monthly in summer. Dealer-submitted prices update whenever a dealer submits a new price through their dashboard.
Why is the price on your site different from what my dealer quoted?
Our prices are regional averages — they reflect the midpoint across many dealers in a state, not the exact price of any specific company. Your actual price can vary based on your dealer, location, order volume, and service contract. Think of our prices as a benchmark, not a guaranteed quote. Always call your dealer for their current price before ordering.
Can I buy heating oil through this site?
No. We are a price comparison and information service only. We do not sell heating oil, take orders, or arrange deliveries. Contact a dealer directly using the information on their listing.
What is the Northeast average price?
The “NE Avg” is the EIA’s reported average residential heating oil price for the PADD 1A region (six-state New England area). We display it as a benchmark so you can see how your state compares to the broader region.
Price Alerts
How do price alerts work?
Enter your email address, zip code, and a target price per gallon. When our daily data shows heating oil in your area has dropped to your target, we email you. It’s completely free — no account needed, no credit card.
How quickly will I get an alert?
Our price check runs daily at 8am ET. If the price drops to your target, you’ll receive an email that morning. There is no real-time alerting — the system checks once per day.
How do I cancel my price alert?
Click the unsubscribe link in any price alert email, or email us at [email protected] with your email address and we’ll remove you immediately.
What’s a good target price to set?
A common strategy is to set your target 20–30 cents below the current price — that’s typically what a strong seasonal dip looks like. Prices are generally lowest between May and August. See our price forecast for context on where prices are heading.
For Homeowners
How much heating oil does my home use per year?
The average Northeast home uses between 700 and 1,000 gallons per heating season. Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire homes tend to use more due to harsher winters. See our guide: How Much Heating Oil Does a House Use Per Year?
When is the best time to buy heating oil?
Historically, prices are lowest between May and August. Buying in the off-season or signing a price cap contract in spring can save 15–30 cents per gallon. See: Best Time of Year to Buy Heating Oil.
What is will-call vs. automatic delivery?
Will-call: you monitor your tank and call when you need oil — gives you control over timing and pricing. Automatic delivery: your dealer monitors usage and schedules fills automatically — you never run out but may pay a small premium per gallon.
What is a price cap contract?
A price cap locks in a maximum price per gallon for the season. If market prices rise above your cap, you pay the cap. If they fall below, you pay the lower price. There’s usually a small fee (a few cents per gallon). Many dealers offer them in spring — ask yours about spring contract options.
What is Bioheat?
Bioheat is a blend of traditional heating oil and renewable biodiesel. Common blends are B5 (5% bio), B20, and B100 (pure bio). It burns cleaner than standard No. 2 oil. Many Northeast dealers now offer it as standard. See: What Is Bioheat?
For Heating Oil Dealers
How do I list my business on CheapHeatingOil.com?
Visit our dealer registration page and complete the application. We’ll review it and respond within 1 business day. Listing is free — dealers who register before September 30, 2026 receive full Preferred Dealer access at no charge.
What is a Preferred Dealer?
Preferred Dealers receive top placement in city search results, a ⭐ badge, up to 29 service cities, and a “Price Verified Today” badge when they update their price. Until September 30, 2026, this is free for all new registrations. After that, it’s $29/month.
How do I update my price?
Log into your dealer dashboard and enter your current per-gallon price. Updates appear immediately with a “Price Verified Today” badge. We recommend updating each morning.
About Us
Is CheapHeatingOil.com affiliated with any oil company?
No. We are entirely independent — no financial relationship with any dealer, distributor, oil company, or trade association. Our price data comes from public government sources and is presented objectively.
How does the site make money?
Through dealer listing fees (Preferred dealers pay $29/month) and display advertising including Google AdSense. This does not affect how price data is displayed.
I found an error. How do I report it?
Please use our contact page or email [email protected]. We investigate all reports and respond within 1–2 business days.