Heating Oil Types in the UK: A Practical Guide for Homeowners
Heating oil is a widely used fuel for homes and businesses across the UK, particularly in rural and off-grid areas where there is no access to mains gas. Whether you're already using oil heating or considering it as an option, it's important to understand the different types of heating oil available, their uses, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
The Two Main Types of Heating Oil
In the UK, there are two primary types of heating oil: kerosene and gas oil. Each type is suited to specific systems and applications, and knowing the difference can help you make an informed decision.
1. Kerosene (28-second oil)
Kerosene is the most commonly used heating oil for domestic purposes in the UK. It is a clear, thin, and clean-burning fuel, making it ideal for use in modern oil-fired boilers and cookers.
Key features of kerosene:
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Efficient and clean-burning: Kerosene produces less soot and smoke, helping to keep your heating system cleaner and more efficient.
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Suitable for most homes: It is compatible with the vast majority of domestic boilers and range cookers such as AGAs and Rayburns.
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Good cold-weather performance: Kerosene has a lower freezing point, making it reliable during colder months.
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Cost-effective: It is generally cheaper than gas oil, both in terms of fuel cost and system maintenance.
You can also purchase premium kerosene, which includes additives designed to improve fuel efficiency, reduce carbon deposits, and prolong boiler life. While slightly more expensive per litre, it can lead to long-term savings by reducing servicing needs.
2. Gas Oil (35-second oil)
Gas oil, also known as red diesel, is a thicker and heavier fuel than kerosene. It is dyed red for tax and regulatory purposes and is primarily used in commercial, agricultural, and industrial settings.
Key features of gas oil:
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Less refined: It produces more emissions and is less efficient than kerosene.
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Used in non-domestic systems: Mainly found in older commercial or agricultural heating systems, as well as machinery.
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Limited domestic use: Some older home heating systems still use gas oil, but it is not recommended for new installations.
Choosing the Right Fuel
For most domestic properties in the UK, kerosene is the preferred heating oil due to its efficiency, cleanliness, and availability. If your property still uses gas oil, it might be worth considering an upgrade to a kerosene-compatible system to benefit from lower running costs and improved performance.
The Future of Heating Oil: Renewable Alternatives
As the UK pushes toward net-zero carbon emissions, the heating oil market is evolving. One promising alternative is Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO)a renewable fuel made from waste fats and vegetable oils. HVO can cut carbon emissions by up to 90% and may become a viable replacement for kerosene in the future, although availability is currently limited.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the types of heating oil available in the UK can help you choose the most efficient and cost-effective option for your home. For most households, kerosene remains the standard, but with new renewable options on the horizon, cleaner heating solutions are becoming more accessible.
