Types of Heating Oil in the UK: What You Need to Know
Heating oil is a vital fuel source for many homes and businesses across the UK, especially in rural areas where natural gas is unavailable. It is stored in tanks on-site and used in oil-fired boilers or heaters to provide warmth and hot water. Although heating oil may seem like a simple product, there are different types available, each with distinct properties, uses, and regulations. This article explains the main types of heating oil commonly used in the UK to help you understand their differences.
What Is Heating Oil?
Heating oil is a refined petroleum product designed for use in domestic and commercial heating systems. It is similar to diesel but refined to specific standards for efficient and clean burning in boilers and heaters. Delivered in bulk by suppliers, heating oil is stored on-site in tanks, ready for use when needed.
The Two Main Types of Heating Oil in the UK
The UK primarily uses two types of heating oil: Kerosene (28-second oil) and Gas Oil (35-second oil or red diesel). These differ in viscosity, price, taxation, and typical use.
1. Kerosene (28-Second Oil)
Kerosene, also called 28-second oil, is the most common heating oil for domestic use. The name refers to its viscosity it takes approximately 28 seconds to flow through a standard test nozzle at 20C.
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Uses: Kerosene is primarily used in homes to fuel oil-fired boilers and heaters.
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Benefits: It burns relatively cleanly, producing fewer particulates and soot, which helps maintain boiler efficiency and reduces maintenance.
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Cost: Kerosene is generally more expensive than gas oil due to higher fuel duty (tax).
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Environmental Impact: While still a fossil fuel, kerosene emits fewer harmful particulates than heavier oils, making it a cleaner choice for indoor heating.
2. Gas Oil (35-Second Oil or Red Diesel)
Gas oil, often called red diesel because of the red dye added to it, is thicker and less refined than kerosene. It has a higher viscosity, taking about 35 seconds to flow in the standard test.
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Uses: Gas oil is mainly used in commercial, agricultural, and industrial settings, including heating large buildings and powering machinery.
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Benefits: It is cheaper than kerosene due to a lower fuel duty.
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Cost: Gas oil is less expensive but is restricted by law from domestic heating use.
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Environmental Impact: It produces more soot and particulate emissions, which can affect equipment performance and increase pollution.
Bioheating Oil: A Growing Alternative
In recent years, bioheating oil has emerged as an eco-friendlier alternative to traditional heating oils. It is a blend of conventional heating oil and renewable biofuels derived from vegetable oils or animal fats.
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Benefits: Bioheating oil reduces carbon emissions and can often be used without altering existing boilers.
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Availability: Many suppliers offer blends with up to 30% biofuel, helping consumers reduce their carbon footprint.
Important Considerations and Regulations
Kerosene is the only type of heating oil legally approved for most domestic heating systems in the UK. Gas oils use is limited to commercial and agricultural sectors. Proper storage in certified tanks is essential to prevent leaks and contamination. Regular boiler servicing and maintenance also help ensure safe and efficient operation.
Conclusion
In the UK, kerosene remains the preferred heating oil for homes due to its cleaner burning properties and regulatory approval. Gas oil, while more cost-effective, is mainly used in commercial and agricultural applications. Bioheating oil offers a promising greener alternative that fits existing systems. By understanding these types of heating oil, consumers can make better choices based on cost, efficiency, and environmental impact.
