BOSTON -- We may be in the heat of summer, but before too long, consumers will be thinking about the cost of heating oil and wondering if a lock-in rate is a good idea. Many dealers aren't offering it unless they're asked, leaving consumers wondering if the option is worthwhile.

Home heating oil prices have been stable since last winter. The most recent numbers average $2.73 a gallon, but prices could rise.

Scott McFarlane, of McFarlane Energy, said he doesn't offer lock-ins and doesn't think they are a good option, especially when rates aren't likely to fluctuate dramatically.

"Everybody's general consensus is that the price of heating oil, natural gas, and gasoline will be pretty stable, and tend to be lower than higher," said McFarlane.

Because of that, many dealers like McFarlane are reluctant to offer lock-in contracts now. There is no law that says they have to.

"Two years ago, many dealers bought oil and customers wanted to lock in," said McFarlane. "The price dropped drastically and they were all asking dealers to come down. Several went out of business. I took a big hit. The dealer has to go out and buy that oil. If you sign a contract or have a verbal agreement and the price goes down, you can't expect him to go down in price," he said.

There are protections, whether consumers decide to lock in a rate, or not.

Call your dealer to ask for a contract. You don't know if you don't ask.

Call more than one dealer.

Long-term relationships will be in your best interest. But a company may offer a deal looking for new business.

Make sure the price quote includes service and find out what that means. Some dealers provide minimum service.

Fill up your tank now. You may not be able to get the current rate in mid-winter. But at least you'll have a full tank going into the fall.

One good way to avoid sticker shock during the colder months is to set up a budget plan based on your estimated cost. Most dealers will let you pay monthly year round to avoid any surprises mid-winter.