Comfort Line - Fall 2001
Sep 01, 2001
In this quarter’s Questions & Answers segment, we are trying something a little different.

Sep 01, 2001
In this quarter’s Questions & Answers segment, we are trying something a little different.
For over 25 years, Hart & Iliff has offered a winter price protection program for our heating oil customers. Initially, we offered both a fixed price and a capped price program. In the last few years, we transitioned away from a fixed price, because it offers no downside protection, if the price drops. Even though it’s been clearly disclosed, each time prices drop during the winter, customers are extremely unhappy about being locked in at a higher price. For example, during the 2014/2015 heating season prices dropped $1.40 per gallon during the winter. This could easily happen again this winter.
Unsurprisingly, we’ve received calls about two connected issues—the surge in fuel prices and supply concerns. Russia is the world’s third largest oil producer, generating approximately 11% of total world production. The Russian invasion of Ukraine shocked the energy markets, sending crude oil to record territory and spiking all energy prices. We saw increases from our heating oil suppliers of more than $1.50 per gallon in less than a week! People are also concerned that there will be interruptions in supply that will cause them to run out of fuel. You can count on the fact that Hart & Iliff will not let you run out of oil. We have been in business for more than 130 years and have very strong relationships with suppliers and financial institutions.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine shocked the energy markets, sending crude oil to record territory and spiking all energy prices. We’ve had increases from our heating oil suppliers of over $1.50 per gallon in less than a week!
These are unsolicited comments received from Hart & Iliff customers.
"Your generosity means more than you know, and will touch more lives than you know. It’s rare these days to find a business so responsive to its customers’ needs, and so invested in the community it serves. The warmth and positive attitude everyone on the Hart & Iliff staff exudes make working with you, even under unfortunate circumstances a true pleasure. I offer my deep gratitude to you and your colleagues."
"To the Office of Hart & Iliff: Thank you for always having the best customer service! Thank you for all the help and advice!"
"Much better service than prior oil company hands down. Techs were cleaner and educated well on the equipment."