If you live in Long Island, you know one thing for sure—heating oil isn’t something you casually think about. from time to time. It’s what keeps your home warm, your business running, and your family comfortable when winter decides to show no mercy.
But what’s happening with heating oil prices lately? Are they going up? Going down? Should you lock in rates now or wait? And what about other heating fuels—are they becoming more affordable or practical alternatives? That’s what we’re looking into in the blog post you’re about to get into.
Heating Oil Trends for 2025
We’re explaining the heating oil trends for 2025, what’s driving prices, and what Long Islanders should expect in the year. Buckle up—we’re covering everything you need to know.
Why Heating Oil Still Dominates Long Island’s Winter Market
You might hear talk about propane, wood pellets, and even heat pumps as alternative heating options. And sure, those options exist. But here in Long Island? Heating oil still runs the show.
1. It’s What Our Homes Are Built For
Most older Long Island homes were designed with heating oil in mind. Switching to propane or electric heat means costly conversions—something many homeowners aren’t willing to tackle.
2. Oil Heating Packs More Punch in the Cold
When it’s 10°F or even lower outside, you don’t want to worry about whether your heating system will keep up. Heating oil burns hotter than propane and provides consistent, powerful heat even during the coldest winter nights.
3. You Control Your Own Supply
Unlike gas or electric heat, where you’re at the mercy of utility companies, heating oil is stored in your own tank. That means you choose when and how much to buy, giving you more control over your fuel costs.
So, even with new energy options on the rise, heating oil isn’t going anywhere—especially here in Long Island.
Reach out to us now, and we’ll help instantly.
Heating Oil Prices in 2025: What to Expect
If you’re wondering whether to fill your tank now or hold off, let’s look at where heating oil prices are heading.
1. Prices Are on the Rise
Since the beginning of 2025, heating oil prices have increased by 6.15%, reaching an average of $2.45 per gallon (U.S. Energy Information Administration). That is due to rising global consumption and a decline in distillate inventories.
2. Demand Is Still High, But Weather Is a Factor
The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) projects that global consumption of liquid fuels will rise by 1.1 million barrels per day in 2024 and 1.6 million barrels per day in 2025. However, a milder-than-expected winter in the Northeast could keep prices from skyrocketing too fast.
3. Oil Inventory Levels Are Dropping
Recently, distillate inventories (which include heating oil) dropped by 5 million barrels, leading to a tighter supply and a likely increase in prices (EIA Report).
So what does that mean for Long Island homeowners? If you haven’t filled your tank yet, it might be time to lock in a price before winter demand pushes it up further.
How Heating Oil Compares to Other Heating Fuels in 2025
Some homeowners and business owners in Long Island are considering alternative heating fuels, like propane or wood pellets, to see if those would cut their heating costs. Let’s break it down.
| Heating Fuel | Average Cost per Gallon (2025) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heating Oil | $2.45 per gallon | Strong heat output, reliable in extreme cold | Prices fluctuate, requires tank storage |
| Propane | $2.90 per gallon | Clean-burning, widely available | Lower heat output, propane prices are volatile |
| Wood Pellets | $300 per ton | Renewable, stable pricing | Requires storage, frequent refills needed |
While propane is sometimes seen as a cleaner alternative, its prices fluctuate even more than heating oil prices. Meanwhile, wood pellets are mostly used in rural areas and aren’t practical for most Long Island homes. Bottom line? Heating oil remains the most practical and cost-effective option for most homeowners in Long Island.
Breakdown of the Weekly Price Changes in Heating Oil
When you’re tracking heating oil prices, it sometimes feels like watching the stock market—up one week, down the next. But what actually drives those weekly fluctuations?
- Weather: A mild January? Lower demand. A brutal February storm? Prices spike fast. In other words, the colder the month, the higher the cost of oil is likely to be.
- Inventory Levels: If there’s a minimum supply, expect a surge in prices.
- Global Oil Market: Crude oil prices affect heating oil prices directly.
- Distribution Costs: Rising costs for dealers mean higher prices for consumers.
If you want to stay ahead of price changes, keep an eye on daily prices. It’s updated every day.
How to Save on Heating Oil Costs This Year
Let’s talk about saving money. With heating oil prices on the rise, Long Island homeowners need smart ways to cut costs without sacrificing comfort.
1. Buy at the Right Time
Historically, heating oil prices are lower in September and October before demand peaks in January. If you can, buy early.
2. Sign Up for Automatic Delivery
Running out of heating oil in the middle of a cold snap? Not fun. Besides, emergency deliveries might cost more. Automatic delivery ensures your tank stays filled at the best possible price.
3. Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Heating System
Newer heating systems use less fuel and reduce your overall gallon consumption.
Reach out to us now, and we’ll help instantly.
Domino Fuel: Long Island’s Trusted Heating Oil Provider
When it comes to staying warm in Long Island, Domino Fuel has your back. We offer:
- Reliable heating oil delivery – including same-day deliveries
- Affordable prices with our Low Price Guarantee
- Boiler repair and oil burner service for top brands like Comfort-Aire, Boyertown, Armstrong Air, Gibson, and Thermo Products
- Flexible payment options, including cash on delivery
Whether you need a refill, a new boiler, or emergency service, Domino Fuel is here to keep your home warm all winter long.
FAQ: What Long Island Homeowners Are Asking About Heating Oil Trends
1. Will heating oil prices keep rising in 2025?
Most likely. With global consumption increasing and distillate inventories dropping, expect gradual price increases throughout the year.
2. How do heating oil prices compare to propane?
Right now, propane prices are about $2.90 per gallon, making heating oil the more cost-effective option.
3. When is the best time to buy heating oil?
September and October tend to have the lowest prices before winter demand kicks in.
4. Should I switch to a heat pump?
Heat pumps may be great in milder climates, but for Long Island’s freezing winters, heating oil is still the more reliable choice.
5. What’s the best way to lower my heating oil bill?
Buying early, signing up for automatic delivery, and upgrading to a high-efficiency system are the best ways to save.
Reach out to us now, and we’ll help instantly.