As August rolls in and the last of the summer days begin to shorten, many households and businesses across the Midlands start to turn their attention to the months ahead. It’s that quiet but familiar shift — when the holiday mindset gives way to preparation. Among the more practical questions is this one: should you order your heating oil now, or wait until later in the year?
There’s no absolutely correct answer. Every home is different, and so is every customer’s routine. But having worked with local families, farms, and businesses for many years, we’ve seen clear patterns emerge — and August has quietly become one of the more strategic months for those looking to get ahead.
The most common reason people begin to think about oil orders in August is simple: routine. For many, it coincides with back-to-school preparation, end-of-summer maintenance, or simply getting the house in order before the busier pace of September arrives. It’s also a time when the oil tank might still have something left in it from earlier in the year — not yet empty, but not quite full either. It’s easy to put it off, but we often hear from customers who say they wish they’d topped up sooner.
By August, the days are noticeably shorter and the odd chilly evening starts to creep in. While you might not need to turn on the heating just yet, that first cool night has a way of catching people off guard. For those who depend on oil as their main source of heating — whether it’s for the family home, a rental property, or a small business — peace of mind goes a long way. Knowing your tank is filled and ready to go means one less thing to worry about when autumn arrives in full.
We also hear a lot of questions around price — understandably so. While no one can predict the market with certainty, customers who order earlier in the season often say they feel more in control. Waiting until the colder months can sometimes lead to longer delivery wait times, especially as demand picks up. That’s not to say you’ll be left without — but you may be competing with everyone else doing the same thing at the same time.
In contrast, August tends to be a little bit quieter. It’s a month that offers more flexibility when it comes to scheduling deliveries, especially in rural areas where routes can be more spread out. Our team can plan ahead with you, ensuring that deliveries arrive when they’re needed — not when the calendar’s already full.
There’s a practical element too. When oil levels run low, it’s not just about running out. Low levels can sometimes lead to issues with boilers or tank sediment, particularly in older systems. By keeping your tank topped up, you’re not just planning ahead — you’re also helping your system run more efficiently and avoiding unnecessary hassle down the line.
Of course, there will always be some who prefer to wait, and in some cases, that approach works. But if your tank is running low or you’ve already started to notice the evening chill, there’s no harm in getting ahead. August may not carry the urgency of October, but that’s precisely what makes it a good time to act.
At Lambe Oil, we’ve delivered to homes and businesses throughout Offaly, Laois, Westmeath, and parts of Kildare for the last 50+ years. We’ve seen the rushes, the cold snaps, the early winters, and the last-minute panics. And while we’ll always do our best to accommodate every order, the customers who plan ahead tend to have an easier time of it — fewer surprises, fewer delays, and a bit more peace of mind as the seasons turn.
We also know that no two customers are alike. Some prefer to fill their tank in one go, others like to top up regularly. Some manage several properties or need to coordinate with tenants or family members. Whatever your circumstances, we’re happy to talk through the best options for you — and help you decide whether now is the right time to order.
For many, the end of August marks the last quiet moment before the calendar fills up again. It’s a good time to take stock — of what’s in the tank, what’s needed for the months ahead, and what makes sense for your household or business. Heating oil might not be the most exciting thing to think about right now, but ticking it off the list early can make a real difference when things get busier.
And when you’re ready, placing your order is straightforward. You can do it online, or you can give us a call — whichever suits you best. Our team is always happy to answer questions, provide guidance, or arrange a delivery time that works around your schedule.
As always, our 48-hour delivery promise remains in place. It’s something we’re proud to offer, and something our customers have come to rely on — especially when they’re planning ahead or managing a busy household.
So, should you order now or wait? Only you can answer that, but if your tank is running low, if your schedule is already filling up, or if you simply like to stay a step ahead, August might just be the right time to act.
If you would like to discuss your next top up with us, or even to find out more information about our Easy Payment Plan, please give us a call on 057 932 1000.