Heating Oil Types in the UK: What Homeowners Should Know

Heating oil is a crucial energy source for over 1.5 million households in the United Kingdom, especially in rural and remote areas that are not connected to the mains gas grid. It powers boilers, central heating systems, and range cookers, offering a reliable and efficient way to keep homes warm. However, there isnt just one type of heating oil available. In the UK, the two most common types are kerosene and gas oileach with distinct properties, uses, and benefits.

This article explains the differences between these heating oils and highlights emerging renewable alternatives.

1. Kerosene (28-Second Oil)

Kerosene is the most widely used heating oil for domestic properties in the UK. It is a clear, thin, and highly refined fuel, ideal for modern oil-fired boilers and cookers.

Key Benefits:

• Clean burning: Produces minimal soot and carbon, helping to keep heating systems clean and efficient.

• Highly efficient: Kerosene burns at a high temperature, providing excellent energy output per litre.

• Cold weather performance: Its low freezing point makes it suitable for year-round use, even in harsh UK winters.

• Widely available: Most UK oil suppliers stock kerosene as their standard home heating oil.

There is also premium kerosene, which contains additives to enhance efficiency, reduce carbon build-up, and extend boiler life. While it may cost slightly more than standard kerosene, it often results in lower maintenance and running costs.

2. Gas Oil (35-Second Oil)

Gas oil, often referred to as red diesel, is a heavier and less refined oil that is dyed red for tax and regulatory reasons. It is primarily used in commercial and agricultural settings but is still found in some older domestic systems.

Key Features:

• Less refined: Gas oil burns less cleanly than kerosene, leading to more soot and higher maintenance needs.

• Commercial applications: Commonly used in machinery, construction equipment, and older commercial heating systems.

• Occasional domestic use: Some older UK homes may still rely on gas oil heating systems, though this is becoming increasingly rare.

Due to its lower efficiency and higher emissions, gas oil is generally not recommended for new domestic installations.

3. Renewable Alternative: Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO)

With the UK targeting net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, attention is turning to low-carbon alternatives like Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). This renewable fuel is made from used cooking oil and other waste fats.

Advantages of HVO:

• Eco-friendly: Offers up to 90% lower carbon emissions compared to fossil fuels.

• Clean burning: Reduces boiler wear and environmental impact.

• Boiler-compatible: Can be used in many existing systems with minor adjustments.

Though not yet widely available, HVO is being trialled in several UK regions and is viewed as a promising solution for greener heating.

Conclusion

When it comes to heating oil in the UK, kerosene is the most practical and efficient choice for most homeowners. Gas oil is still in use but is gradually being phased out due to its lower performance and environmental drawbacks. Looking ahead, renewable fuels like HVO represent a cleaner, sustainable alternative as the UK transitions to a low-carbon future.