Oregonians need to be mindful of heating oil, propane and firewood purchases

As temperatures drop while winter approaches, Oregonians need to be aware before purchasing heating oil, propane and firewood about how much of the product they are getting and what they are going to pay, stated an inspector with the Oregon Department of Agriculture.

The ODA requires that both home heating oil and propane be sold through ODA-licensed liquid meters, according to Josh Nelson, field supervisor at the Weights and Measures Program. Nationally defined uniform tolerances for accuracy are in place, to which these meters are held.

Weights and Measures inspectors routinely test the fuel meters that are mounted on delivery trucks to ensure that they perform within the legal tolerances for accuracy. Before buying fuel, consumers should look for a recent ODA approval seal on the meter itself for assurance that is has been given a through evaluation.

Furthermore, consumers can find key information on their receipt indicating the business name, the quantity delivered and the total price charged to ensure it matches what is indicated on the meter, Nelson said.

Printed delivery tickets are mandatory in Oregon and must be left with the customer at the time of delivery or as specified by the customer.

"One of the most effective ways to protect yourself is simply to be present during the fuel delivery and being observant," Nelson said. "The meter on the truck should be readily visible to the buyer. It's a good idea to be present at least when that first delivery is made to have a look at the meter -- just like you would when filling up your motor vehicle's tank at a gas station."