Heating Oil Prices in the North West: Is Now a Good Time to Order?

Heating oil prices have experienced considerable movement during 2026, leaving many households wondering whether to order now or wait to see what happens next.

Unfortunately, there is no way to predict short-term price movements with certainty. Heating oil prices are influenced by international events, wholesale kerosene costs, exchange rates, refinery output and local supply conditions. A change in any of these factors can affect the price offered to customers in the North West.

However, understanding what is driving the market—and considering your current tank level—can help you make a more informed decision.

Heating oil prices have been unusually volatile

The scale of recent price movements demonstrates how quickly the heating-oil market can change.

According to figures published by the Competition and Markets Authority, the average UK heating-oil price increased from approximately 64 pence per litre in February 2026 to 104 pence per litre in March. Prices subsequently peaked at an average of 123 pence per litre during April before declining again in May.

For a typical 500-litre order, the increase between February and March added approximately £200 to the average household bill.

While prices later moved away from their spring peak, continued international uncertainty means further short-term movement remains possible.

What is affecting heating oil prices now?

Domestic heating oil is generally a form of kerosene, and its wholesale cost is connected to the wider international oil and refined-products markets.

Several factors are currently influencing prices.

Global oil supplies

Events affecting major oil-producing regions and important shipping routes can quickly change expectations about future supply.

Recent attention has focused particularly on the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant proportion of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas normally travels. Concerns about the security and reliability of these supply routes can add a risk premium to international oil prices.

Refinery output

The price of crude oil is only part of the picture. Crude must be refined into usable products, including kerosene.

The International Energy Agency reported that although crude supplies improved during June, the recovery in refined-product supplies was considerably slower. This means crude prices and domestic heating-oil prices may not always move in exactly the same direction or at the same speed.

Exchange rates

Oil and refined products are commonly traded internationally in US dollars. Changes in the value of sterling against the dollar can therefore influence the price UK suppliers pay, even when the underlying commodity price remains relatively stable.

Location and delivery requirements

Your individual heating-oil quote will also be affected by practical considerations closer to home, including:

  • Your postcode
  • The quantity required
  • Delivery-route availability
  • Distance from the supplying depot
  • Access to the property
  • Whether a standard or urgent delivery is required

This is why a national average or an online article cannot provide an exact price for a particular household.

Is now a good time to order heating oil?

The answer depends as much on your circumstances as it does on the market.

If your tank is running low, waiting for a possible price reduction could create a greater risk of running out. An urgent delivery may offer less flexibility than an order arranged while you still have a reasonable reserve.

If you have sufficient oil remaining, you have more time to monitor the market, obtain a current quote and decide whether to order a full delivery or a smaller top-up.

Before making that decision, consider:

  • How much heating oil remains in your tank?
  • How quickly does your household normally use it?
  • Do you have enough to cover an unexpected period of colder weather?
  • Would a partial delivery provide useful protection against further price movement?
  • Could waiting leave you needing an urgent delivery?

Rather than attempting to identify the lowest possible point in a volatile market, many households may prefer to order based on their actual usage, available budget and the need to maintain a sensible reserve.

Could ordering before winter provide more flexibility?

Heating-oil demand normally increases as temperatures fall and more households begin using their heating regularly.

Ordering outside the busiest periods does not guarantee a lower price, but it may provide greater flexibility over delivery dates and reduce the risk of reaching a critically low tank level during colder weather.

If you expect to need heating oil during autumn or winter, checking your current level and requesting a quote in advance allows you to make the decision without the pressure of an empty tank.

Ways to manage your heating-oil costs

Although customers cannot control wholesale prices, there are practical steps that can make household fuel costs easier to manage.

Check your tank regularly

Knowing your approximate tank level allows you to plan an order before the situation becomes urgent. A fuel monitor can make this easier by helping you track usage and identify when your oil is running low.

Request a price based on your actual requirements

Prices can vary by postcode and order quantity. A current quotation based on the number of litres you need will be more useful than relying on a historic UK average.

Consider a partial top-up

If you are concerned about market uncertainty or do not need a complete refill, a smaller order may provide additional security while limiting the immediate household cost. Minimum delivery quantities will apply.

Ask about payment options

A suitable payment plan may help spread the cost and make it easier to prepare for future deliveries rather than waiting until the tank is nearly empty.

Avoid leaving an order until the last moment

Planning ahead normally provides more delivery flexibility and reduces the risk of needing urgent assistance after running out.

Heating oil delivery across the North West

Compass Fuels supplies competitively priced domestic heating oil to households across Lancashire, South Cumbria and the Lake District, the Fylde Coast, Merseyside, Sefton, Greater Manchester and North Cheshire.

Our team combines local knowledge with responsive customer service, flexible payment options and a dedicated fleet that includes vehicles capable of reaching properties where access may be more difficult.

Because heating-oil prices can change regularly, the most accurate way to understand what you would pay is to request a quote based on your postcode and the quantity required.

Get today’s heating oil price

If you are considering an order, speak to Compass Fuels for a current quotation and available delivery options.

Either complete our online quotation form, email us or call 01772 619 461 to speak to one of the Compass team.

Market information checked on 30 July 2026. Heating-oil and kerosene prices can rise or fall without notice. This article provides general market information and does not guarantee future price movements or delivery availability.

Komatsu excavator model PC240LC-11 positioned on a grassy landscape with sunlight behind it.

White Diesel Prices UK

Dec 9, 2025

White Diesel (Road Diesel) continues to be essential for fleets, haulage, commercial vehicles and many industrial sites. Prices are currently averaging around 109ppl, although this figure can change daily depending on market conditions and delivery volumes. To get an...

Tractor working in a field, collecting hay bales under a cloudy sky.

Red Diesel Prices UK

Dec 9, 2025

Red Diesel remains the preferred fuel for agriculture and other approved sectors. Prices are stable, with the current average price around 68ppl. However, this figure can vary depending on location, delivery size and market conditions, so it should only be used as a...

Green fuel delivery vehicle from Compass navigating a snowy garden path surrounded by hedges.

Heating Oil Prices UK

Dec 9, 2025

Heating oil prices in the UK have remained competitive throughout the colder months. Most homes and businesses are seeing prices within an average range of 61ppl to 71ppl, although the exact cost can change daily based on supply, demand and delivery location. Because...

Fuel Monitor Payment Plan

Frequently Asked Questions

Deliveries

  • What areas do you deliver to?

    We deliver to most regions in the UK. To check if we service your area, please use our delivery postcode checker or contact our support team 01772 619 461 

  • What is the minimum order quantity for delivery?

    The minimum order quantity varies depending on the fuel type. For most orders, it is 500 litres, but smaller deliveries may be available upon request for example barrels of 205l fuel.

  • How long does delivery take?

    Standard deliveries typically take 3–5 working days. We also offer express delivery options for urgent orders.

  • What should I do if my tank is overfilled or damaged during delivery?

    Please report any issues to our customer service team immediately. We will investigate and resolve the issue promptly.

  • Can I change or cancel my delivery?

    Yes, you can modify or cancel your delivery by contacting us at least 24 hours before the scheduled delivery time.

  • Do you charge a delivery fee?

    Standard delivery is included in the fuel price for most orders. Express deliveries or orders below the minimum quantity may incur additional fees.

  • What types of vehicles are used for delivery?

    We use a fleet of fuel tankers suitable for residential, commercial, and agricultural deliveries. For restricted access locations, we may send a smaller vehicle.

  • What if my delivery is delayed?

    While we strive to deliver on time, delays can occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. If your delivery is delayed, we will notify you as soon as possible.

  • What should I do to prepare for a delivery?

    Ensure your tank is easily accessible, remove any obstructions, and secure pets or gates. If your tank has a lock, please make sure it is unlocked.

  • How will I know when my delivery will arrive?

    You will receive a notification with an estimated delivery date once your order is confirmed. On the day of delivery, our driver may contact you directly.

  • Do I need to be present during the delivery?

    In most cases, you don’t need to be present as long as your tank is accessible and ready for filling.

  • What happens if I’m not available during the delivery?

    If you’re not available, our driver can deliver the fuel to your tank as long as it is accessible and safe to do so. If access is restricted, we will contact you to reschedule.

  • Can I schedule my delivery?

    Absolutely. You can choose a preferred delivery date during the order process. We’ll do our best to accommodate your request.

  • Do you offer same-day or next-day delivery?

    Yes, same-day and next-day delivery options are available in select areas. Additional charges may apply.

Payments

  • What currency are payments processed in?

    Payments are processed in GBP (British Pounds). If you are paying from outside the UK, your bank may apply conversion fees.

  • Is my payment information secure?

    Absolutely. We use industry-standard encryption and secure payment gateways to protect your payment details.

  • Can I request an extension on my payment due date?

    Yes, payment extensions may be available upon request. Please contact our billing team to discuss options.

  • Do you offer refunds?

    Refunds are processed in accordance with our refund policy. Please contact our support team for further assistance.

  • How can I update my payment details?

    You can update your payment details by contacting our customer service team. 

  • Can I split my payment across multiple methods?

    Unfortunately, we do not support splitting payments across multiple methods at this time.

  • What should I do if my payment is declined?

    If your payment is declined, double-check your payment details and try again. If the issue persists, contact your bank or our support team for assistance.

  • How do I receive my invoice or receipt?

    Invoices and receipts are sent to your registered email address or by letter.

  • Is there a surcharge for using a credit card?

    No, we do not charge additional fees for payments made using a credit card.

  • Do you offer credit terms for businesses?

    Yes, we provide credit terms for eligible business customers. Please contact our sales team to discuss account setup and terms.

  • Can I set up a direct debit or recurring payment?

    Yes, you can set up direct debit or recurring payments to ensure timely and hassle-free billing.

  • What payment methods do you accept?

    We accept a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, direct bank transfers. For business customers, we also offer account-based billing.

  • I paid for my order by card, I received less fuel than I paid for due to the tank being full, what happens now?

    We have a couple of options available, we can refund your payment card, this takes 3-5 working days from the date we process your refund. Alternatively, we can leave the credit sat on your account and adjust this amount from the payment for your next order.