Why should I stay with oil?

For reliable service, competitive prices and convenience! With oil you can choose your local supplier, with gas or electricity you can’t. With over 300 local suppliers you are guaranteed a competitive price. Oil is a clean, efficient, safe source of home heat.

Should I switch to an alternative fuel?

No, wholesale gas and electricity prices are rising too; Natural gas is often sold as the most ‘cost effective’ solution for your home. While this is currently correct many people are now concerned about future hikes following the 11% price rise by Phoenix in October 2003 and 11.3% in 2004 and the uncertainty over the new ownership of Phoenix’s’ parent company. Phoenix is due to announce its 2006 tariff at the end of August. Bord Gais Eirean has already announced a 25% increase in tariff for customers in the ROI.

When should I fill my tank?

You should consider ordering now, as there is no sign of prices reducing in the medium term. Keep in touch with TDF OIL as the market is fluctuating and TDF OIL can advise you a good time at which to order.

Should I buy a smaller amount?

Yes, but remember this will not last as long as a regular fill and will cost more due to the smaller delivery size. You should consider instead using our PayPoint system that allows you to prepay and be in credit and allow you to order what you need this winter.

What is it really costing me to heat my house?

While oil is dear when we look at the spot price consumers should be encouraged to look at the cost over the longer term; e.g.: the cost to heat a three bed house in NI for the six years to 2004 was £517 per annum compared to £550 with mains gas, £614 with solid fuel, £726 with E7 and £928 with LPG.

The current cost to heat a three-bed house annually in Northern Ireland is £808. This breaks down to £15.54 per week (based on annual heat costs as at May 2005).

Compare this to average NI weekly spend for; 

Finally, it should be emphasised that all energy costs have increased, not just oil….