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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Why am I being charged more for heating oil or propane than the price on EIA's website?

The price you are being charged for heating oil or propane can vary widely from the prices that we publish. We publish the averages of the heating oil and propane prices reported by the respondents to our surveys. The prices do not include taxes, premiums, or any discounts that you may be charged or offered by a heating oil or propane supplier. The heating oil and propane prices we publish are only a general guide for prices in your area.

We cannot tell you if you are being charged a reasonable or fair price for heating oil or propane because heating oil and propane prices are not regulated. If you think you are being charged unfairly by a heating oil or propane supplier, you can contact your local Better Business Bureau chapter or your state consumer protection agency, usually administered by the Attorney General.

Learn more:
Weekly average residential heating oil prices and propane prices, October through March, for selected states and regions of the United States
Heating Oil and Propane Update
Heating Oil and Propane Update–FAQ’s for data users
Energy Explained—Heating oil prices and outlook
Energy Explained—Propane prices
What can I expect to pay for heating fuels this winter?

Other FAQs about Natural Gas