Heating oil and kerosene are similar but not the same; heating oil is typically a refined version of kerosene, often used for residential heating, while kerosene is a broader category that includes various grades used for different applications, including aviation fuel.
Heating oil and kerosene are both petroleum-based fuels used for home heating, but they have distinct properties that make them suitable for different applications. While they share some similarities, understanding their differences in safety, efficiency, cost, and ideal usage scenarios will help you make the right choice for your heating needs.
What Is Kerosene?
Kerosene is a light hydrocarbon oil refined from crude petroleum. It has several notable characteristics:
- Colorless or pale yellow appearance
- Distinctive pungent odor
- Flash point around 100-150°F (lower than heating oil)
- Burns hotter and cleaner than heating oil
Historically used in lamps since 1859, kerosene now serves multiple purposes including jet fuel, space heating, and some cooking applications. Its high combustion temperature (around 400°F) makes it ideal for outdoor heating systems and mobile homes in cold climates.
Kerosene Safety Considerations
While efficient, kerosene requires careful handling:
- Produces more carbon monoxide than heating oil
- Requires proper ventilation when used indoors
- Should be stored in outdoor tanks only
- More flammable than heating oil due to lower flash point
What Is Heating Oil?
Heating oil (also called fuel oil No. 2) is a diesel-like fuel specifically formulated for residential heating systems. Key features include:
- Higher flash point (140°F+) for enhanced safety
- Thicker consistency than kerosene
- Lower combustion temperature
- Widely available through local fuel dealers
Heating oil is the safer choice for indoor tanks and standard home heating systems. As noted in our oil-fired boiler guide, these systems are designed specifically for heating oil’s properties.
Key Differences Between Heating Oil and Kerosene
| Feature | Heating Oil | Kerosene |
|---|---|---|
| Refinement Level | Less refined | More refined |
| Flash Point | 140°F+ | 100-150°F |
| Combustion Temp | Lower | Higher (~400°F) |
| Cold Weather Performance | Can gel below 20°F | Flows well below freezing |
| Carbon Monoxide Output | Moderate | Higher |
Cold Weather Performance
Kerosene’s superior performance in cold temperatures makes it ideal for outdoor tanks. Unlike heating oil which can thicken and gel below 20°F (potentially clogging fuel lines), kerosene remains fluid in sub-zero conditions. This is why many vented heating systems in cold climates use kerosene blends.
Cost Comparison
Several factors influence the price difference between these fuels:
- Refinement costs: Kerosene’s additional processing makes it 10-30% more expensive
- Market fluctuations: Both tied to crude oil prices but kerosene sees more volatility
- Availability: Heating oil has wider distribution networks
- Seasonal demand: Kerosene prices spike during winter months
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, residential heating oil prices averaged $3.90/gallon in winter 2022-23, while kerosene averaged $4.50/gallon.
Which Fuel Is Right For Your Home?
Consider these factors when choosing between heating oil and kerosene:
Choose Heating Oil If:
- You have an indoor fuel tank
- Your heating system is designed for standard fuel oil
- You live in a moderate climate
- Cost is a primary concern
Choose Kerosene If:
- Your tank is located outdoors
- You live in extremely cold climates
- Your system is designed for high-temperature fuels
- You prioritize clean burning efficiency
Never mix fuels or use kerosene in a standard heating oil system without professional consultation. As highlighted in our oil boiler troubleshooting guide, using the wrong fuel can cause serious system damage.
Environmental Impact
Both fuels produce emissions, but kerosene burns cleaner with:
- Lower particulate emissions
- Reduced sulfur content
- Less soot buildup in heating systems
However, the EPA notes that modern heating oil formulations have significantly reduced sulfur content compared to historical versions, narrowing the environmental gap between the two fuels.
