If you rely on heating oil, you may have noticed that prices seem to fluctuate. There are many reasons this happens throughout the year. To help you choose the best time to schedule delivery, here are a few of the factors that affect pricing.

What Determines Heating Oil Pricing?

1. Seasons

One of the biggest influences on oil costs is seasonal demand. Most property owners need more home heating oil during the colder months, which range from October to March in New York.

As demand goes up, so does the price. Many people have their fuel delivered before the winter to avoid higher prices at the height of the season.

2. Local Competitors

If your area is saturated with fuel companies, prices may be lower. On the other hand, a town with fewer oil carriers may have higher pricing.

Metropolitan areas like Rochester typically have many businesses, so prices are lower than those in more rural regions.

3. Cost of Crude Oil

Heating oil is derived from crude oil. The supply of this product can be affected by anything from the world’s economy to inclement weather. Even major political events may increase or decrease pricing.

4. Operational Costs

The fuel companies delivering your supply have operational costs, and changes in those can determine how much you pay for fuel. Anything from transportation and distance to daily business fees, such as salaries and insurance payouts, can affect how they price their products.

For some of the lowest prices for heating oil in Rochester, NY, call State Fuel Company. Since 1934, this fuel company has offered affordable heating oil for homes and businesses in the area. They are family-owned, and their delivery and emergency services ensure you are never without oil. Call (585) 247-2380 to schedule a delivery for the off-season, or visit them online to learn more about their work.