This recent cold snap brought to mind our time as a Valley fuel oil customer- we were on automatic delivery with a credit card on file for all fuel deliveries. This seemed like a good arrangement because we were burning about 1800 gallons per year at the time and, in the coldest days, we might get a delivery every 21 days so having them charge the card automatically should have been fast and efficient... I thought things were proceeding well until one day, during a similar cold spell, I noticed our 275 gallon tank was at 1/8- which is not much. Of course, I called to inquire about the next scheduled fuel drop. The rather rude receptionist/secretary informed me that there would be no delivery until my past due balance was paid. This confused me because, again, Valley had my credit card on file; so, I asked if there was a problem was with the card, for example, had it expired, or...?? Then she became argumentative approaching combative. Long story short, somebody at Valley (presumably the woman I spoke with) had failed to charge our card for the two previous deliveries which resulted in an outstanding balance. She further instructed me that it was my responsibility to call within 24 hours of each delivery to ensure that my credit card had been charged accordingly. So, rather than accountability, I received not only egregiously poor customer service and excuses but, somehow, the blame for their errors. As I recall a technician was sent out with several jugs of fuel to hold us until they could get a truck in for a fill up. We rode out the remainder of our contract then switched to another supplier. People make mistakes, it's how they handle those mistakes that leaves a lasting impression. read more