If this is the first time you’ve ever approached buying heating oil, then you may be wondering ‘which type of heating oil do I need?’. At Certas Energy, we supply both Standard Kerosene and Premium Kerosene for domestic use across the UK.
Find out the difference between kerosene and premium kerosene to decide which is the best heating oil for you.
Pros of Standard Kerosene
Standard Kerosene is safe
Safety is a top priority in any residential property. However, many modern heating systems rely on fuels that pose significant safety risks if not stored and used correctly. Standard kerosene heating oil offers a safer alternative.
Unlike natural gas or other common combustion fuels, kerosene is a relatively clean-burning fuel. Carbon monoxide emissions produced by a kerosene heating system are considered very low. Therefore, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning affecting your family is low when you rely on kerosene.
Standard Kerosene is reliable
Kerosene is prized for its stability. It’s this stability that allows kerosene to remain safely stored on your property, even when outdoor temperatures drop.
Kerosene will not freeze or react to cold temperatures until the thermometer reaches approximately -40 degrees fahrenheit. So, you will never have to worry about kerosene freezing or turning into sludge during the winter months. Plus, you will always have access to a reliable heating fuel for your home.
Due to the molecular stability of kerosene, this heating oil can enjoy a long life without losing its effectiveness. Just make sure you keep premium kerosene stored in a clean container.
Standard Kerosene is affordable
Heating costs can make up a major part of your monthly budget during the cold season. By opting for a more affordable fuel source, you can effectively reduce your energy costs over time. Kerosene heating oil offers an affordable alternative to other heating solutions.
Because the process for extracting kerosene from crude oil is very straightforward, the cost associated with kerosene production is low. Low production costs contribute to low retail costs. Therefore, kerosene is one of the most affordable heating fuels available on the consumer market today.
If you’re considering switching to an oil-fired heating system, kerosene can be an affordable and sustainable option.
Cons of Standard Kerosene
Contributes to greenhouse gas emissions
All fossil fuels, including kerosene, release ‘greenhouse gases’ like carbon monoxide which directly contributes to global warming. However, if you still rely on fossil fuels for home heating, kerosene is one of the most environmentally-friendly options.
Kerosene is subject to price fluctuations
While Kerosene is one of the most affordable heating fuels, prices can sometimes fluctuate based on supply and demand. With high demand and low supply, the price of kerosene can be driven up. However, when there is a lack of demand, kerosene prices stay low.
With heating oil, you won’t need to commit to a fixed term contract so you can take advantage of oil price drops, filling up your tank to coincide with when the price is the lowest.
Explore our flexible and hassle-free payment options.
Kerosene incurs maintenance costs
As with any heating system, you need to arrange regular boiler maintenance checks to keep everything running efficiently and safely. For example: it’s essential to dispose of partially burnt fuel deposits that build up over time and this will incur an added, yet essential cost.
Discover our top tips for boiler maintenance.
Pros of Premium Kerosene
Premium kerosene is better for your boiler
Premium kerosene contains fuel additives that help to reduce deposit build up around the nozzle and heat exchanger within your boiler. With little to no deposit build up, your boiler will stay cleaner and perform better for longer, which in turn, reduces the risk of maintenance issues and breakdowns. So, if you’re looking to save money in the long run – premium heating oil is a smart choice for your home heating system.
Premium kerosene is a cleaner and greener fuel
As premium kerosene remains fresher in your tank and helps to keep your boiler well maintained, you will use less fuel overall. Therefore, premium kerosene will produce less CO2 than standard kerosene making it cleaner, greener and more efficient.
Premium kerosene lasts longer
All fuel deteriorates over time. However, the special additives in premium heating oil will help to keep your fuel fresher for much longer. Additionally, premium kerosene also prevents deposit and sludge build up in your boiler. These issues can result in partially blocked burners, clogged pipes and filters, and dirty heat exchangers.
Premium Kerosene works with your current system
You can upgrade to premium kerosene without having to change your entire heating system. Plus, you can make the switch at any time without needing to update your boiler or drain the existing fuel in your tank.
Upgrade to premium kerosene today.
Cons of premium kerosene
Premium Kerosene costs more
Premium kerosene costs a little more than standard kerosene, as it contains mixed additives. These additives aren’t there to make the oil a pretty colour or to smell nicer. However, they’re added to improve the performance and longevity of the fuel. So, while premium kerosene costs more to buy, it’ll save you money in the long run.
Is premium oil worth it?
We’ll let you decide if you think buying premium kerosene is worth it. While premium heating oil does cost a little more than its standard counterpart, it can save you money in both the short and long term.
Premium kerosene can also save you time and trouble too, helping to take better care of your equipment and appliances.
If you already rely on domestic heating oil, you may wish to upgrade to premium kerosene for a more efficient central heating system. Concerned about the cost? Learn how to prepare your oil-heated home for winter.
