Types of Heating Oil in the UK: A Practical Guide
Heating oil is a common fuel source in the UK, particularly in rural and off-grid areas where mains gas is unavailable. It is used primarily to heat homes and businesses through oil-fired boilers or furnaces. Understanding the different types of heating oil available can help consumers make informed choices about efficiency, cost, and environmental impact. This article provides an overview of the main types of heating oil used in the UK.
What Is Heating Oil?
Heating oil is a refined petroleum product designed for use in heating systems. It is stored in tanks on the property and delivered by suppliers as needed. When burned, it generates heat to warm water or air, which is then circulated around the building.
The Two Main Types of Heating Oil in the UK
The UK market predominantly uses two types of heating oil: Kerosene (28-second oil) and Gas Oil (35-second oil or red diesel). Each has specific characteristics, uses, and tax implications.
1. Kerosene (28-Second Oil)
Kerosene is the most popular type of heating oil for domestic use. The name 28-second oil refers to its viscosity, meaning it takes about 28 seconds to flow through a standard nozzle at 20C.
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Usage: Mainly used in homes with oil-fired boilers and heaters.
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Advantages: Kerosene burns cleanly, producing less soot and fewer particulates, which helps maintain boiler efficiency and indoor air quality.
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Cost: It tends to be more expensive than gas oil because it is taxed at a higher rate.
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Environmental Impact: Although still a fossil fuel, kerosene produces relatively lower emissions than heavier oils, making it a cleaner option for domestic heating.
2. Gas Oil (35-Second Oil or Red Diesel)
Gas oil, often called red diesel due to its characteristic red dye, is heavier and more viscous than kerosene. It flows more slowly about 35 seconds in viscosity tests.
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Usage: Commonly used in commercial and agricultural heating, as well as fuel for machinery and vehicles.
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Advantages: Gas oil is cheaper than kerosene because of reduced fuel duty for approved uses.
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Cost: Lower price makes it attractive for commercial applications, but it is generally not permitted for domestic heating due to tax laws.
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Environmental Impact: Gas oil produces more soot and particulate matter, potentially increasing boiler maintenance and affecting emissions.
Bioheating Oil: A Greener Alternative
With growing emphasis on sustainability, bioheating oil is gaining traction in the UK. This fuel blends traditional heating oil with renewable biofuels derived from vegetable oils or animal fats.
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Benefits: Reduces carbon emissions and can often be used without modifications to existing oil-fired boilers.
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Availability: Many suppliers offer blends containing up to 30% biofuel, supporting the UKs efforts to reduce fossil fuel dependence.
Important Considerations
Choosing the right heating oil involves balancing cost, appliance compatibility, and environmental factors. Kerosene remains the approved choice for most domestic heating systems, while gas oils use is restricted to specific commercial or agricultural purposes. Proper storage and regular maintenance of oil tanks and boilers are crucial for safety and efficiency.
Conclusion
In the UK, kerosene is the preferred heating oil for homes due to its clean-burning nature and regulatory approval. Gas oil, while cheaper, is mainly reserved for commercial and agricultural use. Bioheating oil is emerging as an environmentally friendly option that blends fossil and renewable fuels. Understanding the differences between these types can help consumers make the best choice for their heating needs while considering cost and environmental impact.
