Home heating oil, or “heating oil,” is a type of fuel that is used to heat homes and buildings. It is a liquid petroleum product derived from crude oil through a refining process.
Home heating oil is commonly used in areas where natural gas is not readily available. It is typically stored in above-ground or underground tanks on residential or commercial properties. There are many different types of home heating oil with different characteristics, advantages, and limitations.
Types of Home Heating Oil
The specific type of heating oil used in a home may vary depending on the region, climate, and local regulations. It’s essential to check with local suppliers and heating equipment manufacturers to ensure you are using the appropriate heating oil for your heating system and environmental requirements.
No. 2 Heaing Oil
No. 2 heating oil, often called “red diesel” due to its red dye, is the most common type of heating oil used in residential heating systems in the United States. It is a relatively clean-burning fuel.
No. 1 Heating Oil
No. 1 heating oil is a lighter and less viscous fuel compared to No. 2 heating oil. It is used in some older oil heating systems, particularly in colder climates. This is because it has a lower pour point and can flow more easily in cold temperatures.
Bioheat
Bioheat is a blend of traditional heating oil (usually No. 2) and biodiesel. Biodiesel is made from renewable sources like soybean oil or animal fats. It is considered a more environmentally friendly option and can be used in existing oil heating systems without modification.
Kerosene
Kerosene is a lighter and more refined heating oil. It is often used in portable kerosene heaters, especially in areas with extreme cold weather conditions. Some homeowners also use kerosene as a backup fuel source in their oil heating systems.
Ultra-Low Sulfur Heating Oil (ULSHO)
This type of heating oil has a significantly lower sulfur content than traditional heating oil, reducing emissions and environmental impact. ULSHO is mandated in many regions to meet environmental regulations.
Biodiesel
Some homeowners use pure biodiesel or blends of biodiesel with traditional heating oil to reduce their carbon footprint and dependence on fossil fuels. Biodiesel is made from renewable resources, making it an eco-friendly choice.
What Color is Home Heating Oil?
Home heating oil in the United States is typically dyed red, which is why it’s often referred to as “red diesel.” This red dye is added to the heating oil for identification and tax purposes.
The red color helps distinguish it from other types of diesel fuels and indicates that it is intended for non-taxed residential or commercial heating use, rather than for on-road or off-road vehicle use.
Heating oil color may vary slightly depending on the specific regulations and additives used in different regions, but a red or reddish hue is the common color associated with home heating oil.
Can Home Heating Oil Expire?
While heating oil doesn’t technically expire, its quality and effectiveness can deteriorate over time due to various factors.
It’s a good practice to use heating oil within a reasonable timeframe and take steps to maintain the quality of the fuel and the storage system to ensure it performs efficiently in your heating system. If you have concerns about the quality of your heating oil, don’t hesitate to contact us.
A professional HVAC technician will be able to evaluate your home heating oil for contaminants, oxidation, and microbial growth.
Is Heating Oil Dangerous?
Home heating oil, when used and stored properly, is not inherently dangerous. It is a relatively safe and efficient way to heat homes. However, home heating oil has certain potential risks that homeowners should be aware of:
Fire Hazard
Like any flammable fuel, heating oil can pose a fire hazard if it comes into contact with an open flame or ignition source. It’s essential to follow safety precautions and maintain heating equipment to prevent fires.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning
If a heating system is not adequately maintained, it can produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, and potentially lethal gas. Proper installation, regular maintenance, and the use of carbon monoxide detectors can help prevent this risk.
Leaks and Spills
Heating oil tanks or fuel lines can develop leaks, leading to environmental contamination and posing a health risk if not promptly addressed. Regular inspections and maintenance of the heating oil storage tank can help prevent leaks and spills.
Fumes and Odors
Heating oil can produce odors and fumes which can be unpleasant. It is important to have proper ventilation to safely direct dangerous fumes outside.
Environmental Impact
In the event of a spill or leak, heating oil can can contaminate soil and water. Proper storage and maintenance are crucial to mitigate this risk.
Replacing a Home Heating Oil System
If your oil heating system is reaching the end of its life, there isn’t a better time to replace it. This is thanks to an increase in government tax rebates for homeowners that upgrade their old heating system.
Our technicians can ensure that your new heat pump or system earns the maximum tax rebate credit.
Still Need More Information?
If we haven’t answered your home heating oil question yet, it’s best to contact our team. We’re happy to answer HVAC questions you may have. If it’s an emergency, we have technicians on call 24/7.
