Types of Heating Oil in the UK: What You Should Know
Heating oil remains a vital fuel source in many parts of the UK, especially in rural areas where homes and businesses are not connected to the mains gas network. It powers oil-fired boilers and furnaces, providing essential heat and hot water during the colder months. However, not all heating oils are the same. Understanding the types of heating oil available in the UK can help you make better decisions regarding efficiency, cost, and environmental impact.
What is Heating Oil?
Heating oil is a refined petroleum product used as fuel in domestic and commercial heating systems. Stored in tanks on-site, it is delivered by suppliers and burned in oil-fired boilers or heaters to produce warmth. Its similar to diesel fuel but formulated specifically for heating applications.
The 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). Each type has its own characteristics, costs, and uses.
1. Kerosene (28-Second Oil)
Kerosene is the most common heating oil for domestic use in the UK. It is often referred to as 28-second oil because it flows through a standard test nozzle in approximately 28 seconds at 20C, reflecting its viscosity.
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Usage: Kerosene is designed for use in home heating systems, such as oil-fired boilers and heaters.
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Advantages: It burns relatively cleanly compared to heavier oils, producing fewer particulates and less soot, which helps keep boilers running efficiently and reduces maintenance.
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Cost: Kerosene is more expensive than gas oil because it carries a higher fuel duty (tax).
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Environmental Impact: While still a fossil fuel, kerosene generates fewer harmful emissions than heavier fuel oils, making it a somewhat cleaner choice for residential heating.
2. Gas Oil (35-Second Oil or Red Diesel)
Gas oil, also known as red diesel due to the red dye added to distinguish it from regular diesel, is thicker and less refined than kerosene. It flows more slowly around 35 seconds in the same viscosity test.
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Usage: Gas oil is mostly used in commercial, agricultural, and industrial heating applications, as well as fuel for machinery.
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Advantages: It is cheaper than kerosene because it is taxed at a lower rate for eligible uses.
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Cost: Gas oil offers significant cost savings but is generally not permitted for domestic heating due to tax laws.
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Environmental Impact: It produces more soot and particulates than kerosene, which can affect appliance performance and air quality.
Emerging Trends: Bioheating Oil
With increasing environmental concerns, bioheating oil is becoming more common in the UK. This is a blend of traditional 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 in existing oil boilers without modification.
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Availability: Many suppliers offer blends with up to 30% bio-content to help consumers reduce their carbon footprint.
Safety and Regulations
In the UK, kerosene is the only heating oil legally permitted for most domestic heating systems. Gas oil is restricted to commercial and agricultural use. Fuel storage must comply with safety regulations, and regular boiler maintenance is essential for safe and efficient operation.
Conclusion
Kerosene remains the primary heating oil for UK homes due to its cleaner burning qualities and regulatory approval. Gas oil, while cheaper, is mainly reserved for commercial and agricultural uses. Bioheating oil presents a greener alternative that can reduce environmental impact without needing new equipment. Understanding these types helps consumers make informed choices about their heating fuel that balance cost, performance, and sustainability.
