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What is heating oil?

Heating oil is the liquid fuel used by oil-fired boilers to heat homes and businesses, particularly in areas without access to mains gas (off-grid).

Heating oil is made from refined crude oil and is often referred to as Kerosene (we mostly call it heating oil for ease). It's the most common liquid fuel used for domestic heating, however Gas Oil (Red Diesel) is more common in commercial settings such as agriculture.

Key facts:

  • Kerosene (also known as K28, or 28 second oil) burns cleanly and efficiently, making it ideal for homes.
  • Gas Oil is thicker and has a red dye to differentiate from regular diesel and is mostly used by farms.
  • They're both stored in external tanks that feed into your boiler
  • They're fossil fuels, but environmentally-conscious users can take advantage of our Carbon Offsetting Scheme or explore alternative fuels such as HVO.

✅Top tip: Order heating oil in the summer for typically lower prices.

💬 Still have questions?

Our team is here to help, call us on 01480 775454 or check out our Tips and Advice articles.