Oil tank prices going up

Local distributor says manufacturer responsible for increase

The owner of a Charlottetown area distributor of residential oil tanks warns the public that prices are going up in the new year.

Dave Cantelo with Oil Heat Pros said Friday the manufacturers are informing local distributors that costs for things like shipping are increasing about $150.

This increase is eventually going to get passed on to the consumer.

Cantelo said a year ago he was selling and installing oil tanks for around $1,499. That price is now $1,999 and will soon move north of the $2,000 mark.

“Prices are increasing in every sector, as we all know, and we don’t want to see it,’’ Cantelo said. “We need more people aware of this because we get abused.’’

By we, he means consumers are blaming the local companies when they receive their bill.

“As for us small contractors, people accuse us of ripping them off, (but) these are not our increases (but I get blamed) because I sold it to them. We’re the last people they see so we’re the people that take the abuse.’’

Cantelo has purchased an inventory of oil tanks, so he’s able to sell customers the product at the current rate, but that discount is only good until Jan. 30.

“It’s something that anybody who owns a home needs to be aware of. There’s another increase coming, and if they’re planning on (installing) an oil tank, and there are quite a few people that will be doing them in the new year, if they want to take advantage of sales, then they should start calling quick.’’