Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQ’s

  • Because we’re the kind of folks who treat you like family — the kind that shows up when you need help, not the kind that borrows your tools and forgets to return them.

    Smith & Sons is a small, family-run business that believes in fair pricing, friendly service, and doing right by our neighbors. Whether it’s answering your questions with a real human voice or helping out when things don’t go as planned, we’re here for you.

    Run out of fuel in the middle of the night? Don’t worry. With our emergency delivery service, help is just a phone call away. It's like having a backup plan that actually shows up.

  • We always do our best to accommodate every customer, but to ensure timely service, we recommend calling 5 to 7 days before you'd like your delivery.

    Want to know when we’re in your area? Take a peek at our Delivery area page for our daily route schedule — it’s the easiest way to plan ahead and avoid the last-minute scramble.
    ​

  • Our minimum is 100 gallons

  • Getting started is easy — and we’re happy to have you.

    Just give us a call at 518-661-6112, send an email to smithandsonsfuel@gmail.com, or fill out the order request form right on our homepage. Whatever works best for you.

    To get set up, we’ll need your name, service address, mailing address (if different), phone number, and preferred payment method. And before we schedule your first delivery, just make sure your tank is in good working condition so we can keep everything running smoothly.

  • We get it — plans change. If you need to adjust or cancel your order, please give us a call at least 48 hours in advance. Since we pick up fuel daily and account for every gallon, we need that notice to make sure everything adds up.

    Need to reach us after hours to change your delivery for the next/same day? Call our emergency number to let us know. Our drivers set out for the day before the office opens and we can not always guarantee that the office will get the message before the driver gets to your delivery.

    If we don’t hear from you in time, you’ll still be responsible for the original order amount. If you were hoping to add more, don’t worry — we’ll gladly set up a second delivery to get you topped off.

  • Because fuel prices can change daily — and sometimes even more than once a day — we ask that you call us at 518-661-6112 or email smithandsonsfuel@gmail.com for the most up-to-date pricing.

    While we may not always be the absolute cheapest, we are always fair. We base our prices on current costs at the port, and we never tack on hidden fees like fuel surcharges, off-road charges, or surprise delivery fees. What you see is what you get — honest pricing and friendly service from a company that values your trust.

  • There are a few reasons this might happen — and it doesn’t mean anything was done unfairly.

    If your neighbor receives HEAP benefits or qualifies for senior assistance, they may be getting a government-mandated discounted rate. We’re required to follow those pricing structures for eligible customers.

    Another possibility is simple timing. Fuel prices can change multiple times a day. If we quoted your price the night before and the market shifted by the time your neighbor’s delivery went out, that change may be reflected in their rate.

    At Smith & Sons, we do everything we can to keep pricing fair and consistent. We don’t charge hidden fees, surprise surcharges, or residential taxes — just honest pricing based on current costs.

  • No. We do not offer lock in rates. Some competitors do but you usually end up paying a lot more for that comfort. ​

  • Most tanks are 275 gallon tanks some are 550 or 1000  gallons. ​

  • That depends on where your fill pipe is our truck hose is about 90' long (and weighs over 175 lbs).

  • That whistling sound is actually a safety feature working exactly as it should!

    Oil tanks are equipped with an audible alarm that lets the delivery driver know the tank is filling properly. The sound is caused by air being pushed out as oil flows in. When the whistling stops, it’s the signal that the tank is full — helping to prevent overfilling and spills.

    So while it might sound a little strange, it’s really just your tank saying, “I’m full!”

  • You can find additional information on how to read your meter ticket here.

    If you have any additional questions please feel free to contact us.

Delivery Information

*

Delivery Information *

  • Yes.  Click here to complete the Automatic Delivery application and to read through the terms and conditions. 

  • Yes — absolutely. Safety is our top priority, both for you and for our drivers. If your driveway, walkways, or fuel tank access are not safely cleared, we will have to reschedule your delivery. No exceptions.

    Our trucks are large, heavy vehicles that require safe traction and adequate space to turn around. If your driveway is icy, unplowed, or obstructed, it not only puts our driver at risk, but it also risks damage to your property — and we won’t take that chance.

    Here’s what we ask of you before your scheduled delivery:

    • Plow your driveway wide enough for a large truck to enter and exit safely.

    • Sand or salt any icy areas to ensure traction.

    • Clear a path to your tank that is wide enough for a person to walk safely while carrying the delivery hose.

    • Make sure your tank is accessible — free from snow, ice, or debris.

    We know winters in upstate New York can be tough, but keeping these areas clear helps us help you — on time, without delays, and without anyone getting hurt.

  • Yes, we offer 24-hour emergency deliveries (weather permitting) to our current customers only. An emergency delivery is any delivery that is not scheduled in advance. A $125 emergency fee and 100-gallon minimum apply — both of which are standard (or lower) for the industry and necessary to keep a driver on-call around the clock.

    If you need fuel after hours, call 518-848-6810 (our emergency line). If you don’t reach someone right away, leave a message — someone will get back to you within 4 hours.

    Avoiding Emergencies

    We’re always here when you need us, but the best way to avoid an emergency is to plan ahead:

    • Keep an eye on your tank gauge — don’t wait until it’s almost empty to call.

    • Order when you’re around 1/4 full to allow time for delivery scheduling.

    • Ask us about automatic delivery if you want total peace of mind, especially during the colder months.

    Running out of oil can be more than just inconvenient — it can damage your heating system or leave you without heat during dangerous temperatures. We’re happy to help you stay ahead of it with service you can count on.

  • Deliveries typically happen between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM. However, due to the many variables our drivers face each day — like DOT stops, truck breakdowns, road construction, inclement weather and fuel terminal delays — we can no longer offer guaranteed time windows.

    We understand that some customers like to be home during delivery, especially if payment is involved. While we do our best to honor specific time requests, we can’t always guarantee them for the reasons mentioned above.

    If you're only staying home to make a payment, there are easier options:

    • You can leave a check, and we’ll fill in the amount and leave your receipt.

    • You can preorder a specific dollar amount of fuel.

    • You can leave instructions for a hidden payment spot (e.g., “Check is in the mailbox under the mat”) and we’ll make sure the driver knows where to look.

    • You can also keep a credit card or ACH payment method on file for stress-free deliveries.

    If you're waiting due to tank issues, please note that all repairs or concerns must be addressed by a professional before scheduling your delivery. Our drivers are not able to troubleshoot or assess unsafe tanks during delivery.

    Thanks for helping us keep things running smoothly and safely!

Fuel Information

*

Fuel Information *

  • At Smith & Sons Fuels, we proudly provide high-quality #2 home heating oil, 50/50 blended fuel, and kerosene to both residential and commercial customers in Fulton, Hamilton, Montgomery, Saratoga, and parts of Schoharie County (including Esperance).

    Here’s a quick breakdown of what we offer:

    • #2 Heating Oil
      Also known as ultra-low sulfur heating oil (ULSHO), this cleaner-burning fuel is used for heating and hot water systems where tanks are stored indoors. It meets New York State’s 15 PPM sulfur requirement — one of the strictest in the country — and helps support cleaner air and more efficient equipment.

    • Kerosene (K-1)
      Ideal for outdoor tanks, kerosene resists “gelling” in extremely cold temperatures. We sell dyed 15 PPM Kerosene (K1-K5) for reliable cold-weather performance.

    • 50/50 Blend
      A mix of #2 heating oil and kerosene, this blend provides cold-weather protection for customers who need a little extra peace of mind without switching to straight kerosene.

    We pick up fuel fresh daily from the port in Albany, and all of our products are backed by our supplier’s quality guarantee. In over a decade of business, we’ve received high praise from both customers and heating professionals for the quality and consistency of our fuel.

    Want to learn more about fuel specs? Check out our COA Specs and the Sulfur Content Changes Quick Reference Guide to see how heating oil has improved across the Northeast.

  • We don’t recommend it. Ultra-low sulfur #2 heating oil can begin to gel or freeze around 15°F, which can lead to clogs in your fuel line, system shutdowns, and no heat during freezing weather.

    If you have an outdoor tank, kerosene is the safer option — it’s formulated to handle cold temperatures without gelling. That’s why it’s the standard recommendation for outdoor setups in our region.

    Looking for a middle ground? Many customers choose our 50/50 blend — a mix of #2 fuel and kerosene — to balance cost and cold-weather protection.

    We also offer Fuel Ox (click here to view info pamphlet), a cold flow additive that helps prevent gelling. It treats up to 275 gallons and can be added at the time of delivery for just $20. Just let us know if you'd like it included with your order.

    Still unsure what’s best for your tank? Give us a call — we’re happy to help you choose the safest and most cost-effective option.

  • No we do not. We sell dyed 15 ppm kero #1-k5, regular dyed unmarked heating oil, and 50/50 blended fuel.

  • We hear this question a lot, and it's a good one to ask — but before you make the switch, there are a few things to consider.

    Many people assume propane is cheaper than fuel oil, but that’s not always the case. When you look at BTU output (heating power), you’ll find that it typically takes about 1.5 gallons of propane to match the heat you’d get from just 1 gallon of heating oil. That can add up fast.

    Also, keep in mind that many propane companies are large, corporate-run operations with added costs like:

    • Tank rental or lease fees

    • Tank certification and removal charges

    • Delivery surcharges

    • Long lead times (sometimes requiring scheduling 2+ weeks in advance)

    • Extra service or administrative fees

    By comparison, fuel oil providers like us often offer more personalized service and fewer surprise charges. We also find that HEAP benefits in New York State are the same whether you're using oil or propane — because when all costs are considered, they’re more similar in price than people realize.

    Before making the switch, we recommend asking neighbors about their propane experience and weighing all the factors — not just the per-gallon price. We're always happy to answer questions or talk through the pros and cons based on your specific needs.

    see our Fuel Oil vs Propane Comparison Chart

  •  We no longer offer off /on road diesel due to low demand. 

  • Our kerosene is purchased fresh daily from the port of Albany and is specifically formulated for cold weather use. Kerosene is designed to perform in freezing temperatures and typically won’t gel unless temps drop to around -30°F — which is rare.

    That said, gelling can still happen under certain conditions — and it's often caused by water contamination from natural condensation inside outdoor tanks. When water mixes with fuel and temperatures drop, ice crystals can form and lead to freezing or system issues. This isn't a reflection of fuel quality but rather a tank condition or setup issue.

    If you're experiencing problems:

    • Consider placing your tank inside a shed or shelter if possible.

    • Wrap exposed fuel lines with heat cable tape to prevent freezing.

    • Always make sure your tank is properly maintained and checked for water buildup.

    Rest assured, our fuel is high-quality and backed by our supplier, which distributes millions of gallons daily. If there were a quality control issue, you'd be hearing about it across the region — not just at your tank.

    If you’re still having trouble, we recommend contacting a trusted heating professional to check your system and tank setup.

Payment Information

  • We accept a variety of payment options to make things easy for you:

    • Cash

    • Check or Money Order

    • ACH (bank check)

    • Visa, MasterCard, or Discover

    • NYS H.E.A.P. assistance

    • FEMA fuel assistance (if applicable)

    All payments must be made on or before the time of delivery.

    Smith & Sons operates on a C.O.D. (Cash on Delivery) basis because we purchase the fuel we deliver up front, daily, at the port. This ensures we can continue offering fresh, high-quality fuel without hidden costs or markups.

    If you have questions about payment options or need help setting up ACH or assistance payments, give us a call — we're happy to help!

  • You can drop off your payment at:

    2346 State Hwy 30
    Mayfield, NY

    There is a secure black lock box located to the right of the entrance door. Please be sure to place your payment in an envelope clearly labeled with your name, service address, or account number so we can apply it correctly to your order.

    We check the box regularly, and it’s a safe and easy way to pay ahead of your delivery.

  • No problem — you’ve got a few easy options:

    • We can estimate your total based on your tank gauge, and you can leave a check for that amount. If it ends up being a little less, we’ll refund the difference or apply the credit to your next delivery.

    • You can also call us to put a credit card or ACH (e-check) on file, and we’ll charge the exact amount on the day of your delivery. No guesswork, no need to be home.

    Both options are safe, secure, and help keep things running smoothly — especially during busy delivery days or unpredictable weather.

  • Invoices are typically emailed within 2 business days of your delivery. If you haven’t received it by then, feel free to give us a call or send a quick reminder — sometimes things get held up in the shuffle, and we’re always happy to resend it.

    Make sure we have your correct email address on file to avoid delays!

  • Yes, our driver can bleed your furnace at the time of delivery, but there is a $25 service fee, and you must be home between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM to allow access.

    Please note: We do not offer any other plumbing or heating services at this time. If your system needs repairs beyond a simple bleed, we recommend contacting a licensed heating professional.

  • We don’t — but you’re probably looking for Smith & Sons Construction.

    Please contact Jeff & Bonnie at 518-661-5074 and they’ll be happy to help you with your concrete needs.

  • We do not offer plumbing or heating services at this time. However, we’re always looking to build a trusted referral list for our customers.

    If you know a reputable local company that provides excellent service, please have them give us a call — we’d love to connect and discuss how we might work together to better serve our community.

  • Unfortunately, we cannot pump out tanks or refund unused fuel. Once fuel has been delivered, it becomes the property of the customer. Since there may be sludge or sediment at the bottom of the tank, we can’t safely remove or resell that fuel.

    However, you do have a few options:

    • If you’re selling your home, we can provide a fuel value estimate and send a statement for your attorney or closing paperwork.

    • If you’re renting, your landlord may be willing to reimburse you. We’re happy to provide a statement showing the dollar value of remaining fuel so the landlord can recover the cost from the next tenant.

    • If you're switching to another heating system, your installer should include tank removal or fuel disposal in their service quote.

    Still have questions? Give us a call — we’ll walk you through the best approach based on your situation.

  • Absolutely. We can provide a Property Sale Fuel Statement for your closing paperwork.

    Just click here to complete the Property Sale Statement Request Form and submit it to our office. Once we receive it, we’ll prepare a statement showing the estimated value of the fuel remaining in your tank for use at closing.

    If you have any questions while filling it out, don’t hesitate to give us a call — we’re happy to help.

Services Provided

H.E.A.P. Benefits

  • Yes! We proudly accept NYS H.E.A.P. and are currently welcoming new HEAP customers for this heating season.

    To get started, please call us for your account number, or check the top of your previous fuel delivery slip if you’re already in our system.

    Once we receive confirmation of your HEAP benefit, we’ll contact you to schedule your delivery. Please note that deliveries are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis, so the sooner you’re approved, the sooner we can get you on the calendar.

    Have questions about the process? Give us a call — we’re here to help.

  • Once we receive written confirmation of your H.E.A.P. benefit, we’ll call you to schedule your delivery. This usually happens within 3 to 7 business days after confirmation is received.

    A few important things to know:

    • We cannot deliver oil until we receive official written approval from H.E.A.P. Delivering before confirmation could jeopardize our status as a licensed vendor.

    • H.E.A.P. customers are never charged extra fees or higher per-gallon rates. Your pricing is the same as any regular customer.

    • Regular H.E.A.P. benefits are issued between November 18th and March 19th. Keep in mind, while we often receive confirmation promptly, actual funds from the state may take weeks or months to arrive — this does not delay your delivery once confirmation is in hand.

    If you have questions about the status of your application, we recommend reaching out to your local Department of Social Services or Office for the Aging.

  • We know those letters can be confusing! Here's what's happening:

    After the state sends us a HEAP payment, both you and Smith & Sons receive a confirmation notice by mail. These are often sent out weeks or even months after your delivery has already been made.

    So while it may look like a new benefit was just approved, it's usually just a record of payment for fuel that was already delivered under your previous HEAP benefit.

    If you believe the letter is referring to a new benefit, or if you’re unsure, the best thing to do is contact your local Department of Social Services or Office for the Aging. They’ll be able to confirm your benefit status and clarify any updates.

  • We understand how stressful that situation can be, and you’re not alone. Here are a few options to explore:

    • You can schedule a delivery and pay by cash, check, or credit card if that’s available to you.

    • If you don’t have the funds, you may qualify for FEMA assistance through Catholic Charities in Johnstown or Amsterdam. FEMA can often help cover a minimum delivery of 100 gallons if you meet their eligibility requirements.

    • We also accept Care & Share payments made through National Grid in coordination with your local Office for the Aging.

    • Regular HEAP benefits are issued between November 18th and March 19th, but we cannot deliver under HEAP unless we have official confirmation of your benefit.

    • If you’re in a true emergency with no heat, the Department of Social Services (DSS) may be able to provide temporary warm shelter or relocation assistance until a longer-term solution is available.

    Don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re happy to talk you through your options and help point you in the right direction for additional support.

  • Before you make the switch, it’s worth knowing that upgrading your existing oil furnace to a high-efficiency model can save you up to 30% per year on heating costs — without the expense or hassle of switching systems entirely.

    One of the biggest advantages of heating with oil is that you’re working with a local, dependable company — not a faceless utility or out-of-town provider. With oil, you know exactly who’s showing up when you need help, and that reliability matters — especially in the middle of winter.

    That said, every home and budget is different, so we encourage you to do your research before switching. Make sure to factor in:

    • Installation costs

    • Maintenance requirements

    • Long-term fuel efficiency

    • Availability of trusted local service providers

    We’re always happy to answer questions or help you compare your options — even if you’re just exploring.

    Click here for a checklist to compare your heating options

  • Great question — and welcome to oil heat! The amount of fuel you’ll need can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, including:

    • Outdoor temperatures (especially during a cold Northeast winter)

    • Whether your hot water runs off the furnace

    • Any additional heat sources (like wood stoves or pellet stoves)

    • How warm you keep your home

    • The number of people living there

    • How well your home is insulated

    That said, a typical home uses about 100 to 125 gallons of heating oil per month during the peak winter months.

    For the most accurate estimate, we recommend asking the previous homeowner. They can usually contact their former fuel provider and request a delivery history printout, which will give you a clear picture of how much fuel the house has needed in the past.

    If you’re still unsure, we’re happy to help you monitor your usage and create a delivery plan that fits your needs and budget.

*As winter approaches our area, please make sure that your driveway is properly maintained for winter weather.

Safety is our #1 priority