How do I get the cheapest heating oil?

Compare several quotes

The same oil on the same day can cost different amounts from different suppliers, so the first step is always to compare. Citizens Advice suggests getting at least three quotes, and checking for any extra fees or service charges before you order.

Fueltool compares live prices from independent local suppliers for your postcode. Prices include delivery, totals are shown with 5% VAT, and there is no service charge. Today's typical price for 1,000 litres is 114.1p a litre before VAT. That is the median listing, so half of listings are cheaper than it.

Order before you run low

Urgent deliveries usually cost more. Citizens Advice says delivery in a few weeks is usually cheaper than an urgent delivery, and Which? warns that express or emergency deliveries can be pricey. Each price on Fueltool shows its delivery option and date, so you can pick a slower, cheaper slot when you have time.

That only works if you order early. Citizens Advice advises keeping at least a quarter of a tank while you wait for a delivery, and Which? reports that UKIFDA, the fuel distributors' trade body, currently advises keeping at least 500 litres in your tank where possible.

Buy a bigger fill if your tank has room

Larger orders usually cost less per litre. On today's typical prices, 1,000 litres works out 1.4p a litre cheaper than 500 litres, and Citizens Advice notes that one larger order may cost less than several smaller ones. Check the space first: Which? advises filling a tank only to around 80% to 90% of its capacity, to avoid spills. More in our guide on whether ordering more saves money.

Buy in the quieter months

Demand is lower in summer, and Citizens Advice says prices are usually cheapest in summer and early autumn. In Fueltool's records since 2012, August has been the cheapest month on average. Big moves in the oil market can outweigh the season in any year, so treat it as a tilt in your favour rather than a rule. See the best time to buy heating oil.

Club together and skip the extras

• Join or start an oil club. Buying at the same time as others in your area can bring the price down. Citizens Advice suggests looking online, on social media and community notice boards, or asking your council, and says you can set one up if there isn't one nearby.
• Only pay for the tanker you need. Small and baby tankers are there for narrow lanes and tight access, and a small extra charge can apply, so choose a standard tanker if it can reach your tank.
• Compare the oil you actually need. Heating Oil is standard 28-second kerosene, the type most homes use. Premium Kerosene and AGA / Range Cooker Oil are priced separately, so compare like with like. See which heating oil you need.
• In Northern Ireland, the Consumer Council's price checker publishes average prices for 300, 500 and 900 litres, a useful benchmark for any quote.

When you're ready, compare prices for your postcode.