Question 1

Where are your Service Areas?

Accepted Answer

Our service areas are Gloucester, Rockport, Essex, and Manchester-by-the-Sea. That being said, we do deliver in Beverly, Hamilton and Wenham for automatic deliveries only - no will call.

Question 2

Are you a family owned and operated business?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Started by Joe Walsh in 1981, J.M.Walsh Oil Company has been family owned and operated for 40 years.

Question 3

Why are credit applications required if I want to pay by credit card?

Accepted Answer

All new customers are required to fill out a credit application. This is because fuel deliveries and service are not considered "Point of Sale" transactions where a customer has to pay before receiving the merchandise. In our case, customers are receiving products or service in advance. Having all new customers fill out a credit application helps us as a business guarantee payment. Thank you for understanding!

Question 4

Where is your delivery / service area?

Accepted Answer

Our fuel delivery/ service areas are Gloucester, Rockport, Essex, and Manchester-by-the-Sea. That being said, we do deliver in Beverly, Hamilton and Wenham for automatic deliveries only- no will call.

Question 5

What is a degree day and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

It's any day during which the average temperature falls below 65.  The number of degrees difference between 65 and the average temperature (for example:  45)  are called DEGREE DAY UNITS.  (In this case 65 minus 45 = 20.) 
Each day add the high and low temperatures together and divide by two - this will give you the MEAN temperature.  Subtract this mean from the base figure of 65 and you will have the daily degree days.  These degree days reflect fuel consumption, and for scheduling purposes are accumulated by the season, usually starting September 1st and are added to a cumulative YTD total.

Question 6

What does a Full Service company do?

Accepted Answer

Industry surveys have shown that 85% of heating oil customers in America prefer to do business with a full service oil company because it means: 
- 24-hour emergency service
- trained, certified technicians
- monthly payment plans and service plans for protection against large, unexpected bills.
- automatic deliveries to reduce run-outs - credit terms on fuel bills
- sufficient liability insurance coverage in the unlikely event of property damage
- fully stocked service vehicles so most problems can be fixed on the spot

Question 7

What happens if I have an emergency after business hours?

Accepted Answer

If you are a regular customer of ours and run into an issue after business hours, our live answering service takes your call and relays the information back to our team.    A service charge may apply to deliveries outside of normal business hours. This includes run-outs due to non-payment and failure of automatic delivery customers to notify company of a change in usage.

Question 8

I've found cheaper fuel but they don't offer any services. Why is that?

Accepted Answer

About two-thirds of what a customer pays covers the cost of the fuel itself. The rest goes toward services, which are not offered by all companies. This is why oil-only companies can charge a lower price.

Question 9

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

Our office is located at 6 Cleveland Place, Gloucester, Massachusetts.

Question 10

Do I stll have to check my tank now that I'm a customer?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. We make a reasonable effort to initially and periodically visually inspect accessible above ground oil tanks. Visual inspections assess the condition of the tank at the time of inspection and do not predict the tank’s condition in the future. Since tank conditions may change, as the owner with ongoing access, it is the Customer’s responsibility to monitor the tank for wear and tear and/or leaks and notify us immediately.

Question 11

I will have a credit card on file, do I still need to fill out a credit application?"

Accepted Answer

Yes. All new customers are required to fill out a credit application regardless of payment method.

Question 12

How much does a cooling system cost?

Accepted Answer

Cooling systems will be unique to your home. Contact our office to learn more.

Question 13

Do you offer Budget Plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes. To learn more about the terms of our budget plans, please give our office a call at (978) 283-4815 or (978) 546-6018.

Question 14

What does a Full Service company do?

Accepted Answer

Industry surveys have shown that 85% of heating oil customers in America prefer to do business with a full service oil company because it means: 
- 24-hour emergency service
- trained, certified technicians
- monthly payment plans and service plans for protection against large, unexpected bills.
- automatic deliveries to reduce run-outs - credit terms on fuel bills
- sufficient liability insurance coverage in the unlikely event of property damage
- fully stocked service vehicles so most problems can be fixed on the spot

Question 15

How do I pay for my fuel delivery?

Accepted Answer

Invoices can be paid by:   - Paypal (click here) - Authorized Credit Card on file - Mail check to : J.M.Walsh Oil, 6 Cleveland Place, Gloucester, MA 01930   All fuel charges are due and payable, at the discounted price, within seven (7) days of the date imprinted on the delivery slip. After 7 days. the price increases by .30 cents per gallon. Service charges are due and  payable within thirty (30) days of service rendered. Installations are scheduled upon receipt of a 50%  deposit and due and payable in full upon completion.

Question 16

Do I stll have to check my tank now that I'm a customer?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. We make a reasonable effort to initially and periodically visually inspect accessible above ground oil tanks. Visual inspections assess the condition of the tank at the time of inspection and do not predict the tank’s condition in the future. Since tank conditions may change, as the owner with ongoing access, it is the Customer’s responsibility to monitor the tank for wear and tear and/or leaks and notify us immediately.

Question 17

Do you offer Budget Plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes! To learn more about the terms of our budget plans, please give our office a call at (978) 283-4815 or (978) 546-6018.

Question 18

What is Will Call Delivery?

Accepted Answer

Will Call delivery means that we do not track consumption or schedule your next delivery. It will be your responsibility to monitor the fuel in your tank and request a delivery. The best time to call and schedule a delivery is when the gauge reads between ¼ and ½ full. Please give us 48 hours notice for weekday deliveries. There is a 100 gallon  minimum delivery, 150 for Green Energy customers. A chargeable service call could result in the event of a run-out outside of business hours.

Question 19

How do you determine my delivery schedule?

Accepted Answer

Your delivery schedule is based on your average use during this time of year, plus the weather. Any changes on your usage will effect this schedule, and you may run out! This also includes customers using their second homes/summer homes during Covid.   Please remember to notify us of any changes in fuel usage such as construction, working from home, or a change in winter travel plans from prior seasons. We also need to know if you stop using your pellet stove, wood stove, or mini-splits.    We are unable to re-calculate your usage without up to date information. We are not liable if your usagae changes and it is not communicated to us.

Question 20

I've found cheaper fuel but they don't offer any services. Why is that?

Accepted Answer

About two-thirds of what a customer pays covers the cost of the fuel itself. The rest goes toward services, which are not offered by all companies. This is why oil-only companies can charge a lower price.

Question 21

What is Automatic Delivery?

Accepted Answer

Automatic delivery is based on a calculation using: weather/outdoor temperature, your pattern of use, size of your home, location and other heat sources. Our computer system tracks the last 3 deliveries and weather to “flag" customers who are ready for their next delivery. While this system is very accurate, it cannot determine unforeseeable fluctuations in use. We always suggest that you also keep an eye on the level of oil in the tank and let us know if you may be using more than expected. An illness, a new family member, visitors and construction can all change the amount of oil that you use. It is ultimately your responsibility to check the tank and ensure that you have an adequate supply of fuel.

Question 22

I want to keep a credit card on file, do I still need to fill out a credit application?"

Accepted Answer

Yes. We require all new customers to fill out a credit application regardless of how invoices are paid.

Question 23

What happens if I have an emergency after business hours?

Accepted Answer

If you are a regular customer of ours and run into an issue after business hours, our live answering service takes your call and relays the information back to our team.    A service charge may apply to deliveries outside of normal business hours. This includes run-outs due to non-payment and failure of automatic delivery customers to notify company of a change in usage.

Question 24

What are your Delivery/Service Areas?

Accepted Answer

Our fuel delivery/ service areas are Gloucester, Rockport, Essex, and Manchester-by-the-Sea. That being said, we do deliver in Beverly, Hamilton and Wenham for automatic deliveries only - no will call.

Question 25

What is a degree day and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

It's any day during which the average temperature falls below 65.  The number of degrees difference between 65 and the average temperature (for example:  45)  are called DEGREE DAY UNITS.  (In this case 65 minus 45 = 20.) 
Each day add the high and low temperatures together and divide by two - this will give you the MEAN temperature.  Subtract this mean from the base figure of 65 and you will have the daily degree days.  These degree days reflect fuel consumption, and for scheduling purposes are accumulated by the season, usually starting September 1st and are added to a cumulative YTD total.

Question 26

Do you offer Budget Plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes. To learn more about the terms of our budget plans, please give our office a call at (978) 283-4815 or (978) 546-6018.

Question 27

What is the annual heating season?

Accepted Answer

We consider the heating season here to run from September 1st- August 31st.

Question 28

Can I be a service client and not receive fuel deliveries?

Accepted Answer

No. Only customers enrolled in fuel deliveries may be service clients. Deliveries by other fuel providers will automatically terminate any service contracts and fees may apply.

Question 29

I want to keep a credit card on file for payments, do I still to fill out a credit application?"

Accepted Answer

Yes. We require all customers to fill out a credit application regardless of payment method.

Question 30

What does a Full Service company do?

Accepted Answer

Industry surveys have shown that 85% of heating oil customers in America prefer to do business with a full service oil company because it means: 
- 24-hour emergency service
- trained, certified technicians
- monthly payment plans and service plans for protection against large, unexpected bills.
- automatic deliveries to reduce run-outs - credit terms on fuel bills
- sufficient liability insurance coverage in the unlikely event of property damage
- fully stocked service vehicles so most problems can be fixed on the spot

Question 31

How much do Service Plans cost?

Accepted Answer

Cost and eligibility for your specific system will be available after an inspection. Please give our office a call so we can learn more and personalize a service plan for you.

Question 32

What happens if I have an emergency after business hours?

Accepted Answer

If you are a regular customer of ours and run into an issue after business hours, our live answering service takes your call and relays the information back to our team.    A service charge may apply to deliveries outside of normal business hours. This includes run-outs due to non-payment and failure of automatic delivery customers to notify company of a change in usage.

Question 33

I've found cheaper fuel but they don't offer any services. Why is that?

Accepted Answer

About two-thirds of what a customer pays covers the cost of the fuel itself. The rest goes toward services, which are not offered by all companies. This is why oil-only companies can charge a lower price.

Question 34

Do you have a sample service plan to look at ?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Here is our SAMPLE ONLY service plan doc. This is for informational purposes only. Please do not sign this sample document. It will not be honored by our company. In order to receive a personalized service plan to meet your specific needs, please call our office.

Question 35

What happens during annual maintenance?

Accepted Answer

Our technician removes any soot buildup, checks electronic controls, inspects the oil storage tank, changes the oil filter, air filter (furnaces), nozzle, flushes out the oil line, and performs an efficiency test on the system. This procedure takes about an hour, but can take longer if the unit hasn’t been cleaned regularly, or a part needs replacement.

Question 36

Do I stll have to check my tank now that I'm a customer?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. We make a reasonable effort to initially and periodically visually inspect accessible above ground oil tanks. Visual inspections assess the condition of the tank at the time of inspection and do not predict the tank’s condition in the future. Since tank conditions may change, as the owner with ongoing access, it is the Customer’s responsibility to monitor the tank for wear and tear and/or leaks and notify us immediately.

Question 37

Where are your Service Areas?

Accepted Answer

Our service areas are Gloucester, Rockport, Essex, and Manchester-by-the-Sea. That being said, we do deliver in Beverly, Hamilton and Wenham for automatic deliveries only - no will call.

Question 38

How can I tell if I have a WiFi connection at my tank?

Accepted Answer

Walk down to the tank and bring your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Put your phone in 'Airplane Mode' and turn on WiFi only. See if you have internet access by opening up your browser. If the connection is not great, consider purchasing a WiFi range extender.

Question 39

Who do I ask about warranty information?

Accepted Answer

Warranty questions should be directed to Smart Oil Gauge directly.

Question 40

Can I order the Smart Oil Gauge directly from the company but have J.M. Walsh do the install?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We charge a full service fee for Smart Oil Gauge installations that are not ordered through us directly.

Question 41

What size tank is the Smart Oil Gauge designed for?

Accepted Answer

The sensor currently supports standard vertical or horizontal 138, 220, 240, 275 and 330 gallon above-ground tanks, as well as 500 and 550 gallon cylindrical tanks. Roth adapter required for 400L, 620L, 1000L, and 1000LH. Not compatible with Roth 1500L. Above ground tanks only.

Question 42

What type of batteries does the Smart Oil Gauge take? How long do they last?

Accepted Answer

The Smart Oil Gauge takes two Saft LS14500 3.6 V lithium AA batteries, which are readily available online or by contacting J.M. Walsh Oil Co., Inc.. The batteries generally last 1-2 years, depending on WiFi strength, Upload Interval, and other factors. Set your Upload Interval to 24 to maximize battery life.

Question 43

Who is responsible for switching the batteries out when they need to be replaced?

Accepted Answer

Customers can schedule a service call (fees apply) with us directly or the customer may change the batteries themselves.

Question 44

I just had my tank filled, but the Smart Oil Gauge is not reading completely full. Why is that?"

Accepted Answer

When a tank is filled, the oil level is often too close to the ultrasonic sensor, so the Smart Oil Gauge will just say 'Full'. There is also an airspace kept at the top of the tank to prevent overfilling. As a result, a 275 gallon tank typically holds around 250 gallons when completely full.

Question 45

Why can’t I order fuel directly from the app when I am getting low?

Accepted Answer

Calling our office line directly is the only way to order fuel or request service. This allows us to ensure the most timely delivery possible and maintain close communications with our valued customers.

Question 46

How do I set up my Alexa to check my Smart Oil Gauge?

Accepted Answer

Open the Alexa app on your phone, and go to Skills. Search for Smart Oil Gauge to get the Smart Oil Gauge skill. You’ll need to sign in with your Smart Oil Gauge username and password to link the skill to your account. To trigger the Smart Oil Gauge skill, always start by saying:“Alexa, ask Smart Oil Gauge how much oil we have”. Then, you can follow-up with shorter commands, like: “When will we need oil”. Tip: Consider changing the name of your tank from its default name (e.g. MyTank6541234) to something quicker for Alexa to say, like Rental Property. You can change the name of your tank in the Smart Oil Gauge app under settings or configure.

Question 47

Can I see a sample service contract?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Please contact our office at 978-283-4815 or 978-546-6018 and we'll send over a copy to you

Question 48

What are your terms and conditions?

Accepted Answer

You can read all about our terms and conditions HERE

Question 49

What happens during annual maintenance?

Accepted Answer

Keeping your oil burner maintained will help with efficiency and is a preventative measure for future, sometimes larger problems. We recommend an annual maintenance on any system burning 500 gallons or more in a heating season (September 1 – August 31st).    During the annual maintenance, the technician removes any soot buildup, checks electronic controls, inspects the oil storage tank, changes the oil filter, air filter (furnaces), nozzle, flushes out the oil line, and performs an efficiency test on the system. This procedure takes about an hour, but can take longer if the unit hasn’t been cleaned regularly, or a part needs replacement.

Question 50

Are your technicians employed in house or contractors?

Accepted Answer

All our technicians are in-house employees. They are highly trained, licensed, and insured. Commitment to our customers is their priority, and because they are in house, the full faith and backing of the company assures that the high standards of competent, professional standards are met.

Question 51

What brands do you carry for cooling systems?

Accepted Answer

We carry: Mitsubishi, Samsung and Fujitsu

Question 52

Do you install mini-splits?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do. Give our office a call at 978-283-4815 or 978-546-6018 for more information.

Question 53

Do you install central air conditioning?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Give our office a call at 978-283-4815 or 978-546-6018 for more information.

Question 54

Can I add central air conditioning to my boiler?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Contact us for more information on how you can upgrade your existing boiler hot water system with air handlers!

Celebrating 40 Years In Business!

Smart Oil GaugeTM Tank Monitoring

Compatible with vertical and horizontal tank types:

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