Diesel fuel and heating fuels are used for different purposes, but they also share some similarities. Diesel and kerosene are typically consistent while home heating fuels can vary depending upon the season and your location. Here is some information that explains the differences between these three types of fuel.
How fuels are made
Crude oil, which is used to make a multitude of products in the oil and gas industry, is made up of carbon and hydrogen atoms. These are arranged in hydrocarbon compound chains that are altered during the refining process to produce different results.
The process is done by separating the chains based on their boiling points. Compounds with higher boiling points settle at lower levels, while those with lower boiling points settle at higher levels. This means that lighter fuels like propane and gasoline are created first. Heavier products like diesel and heating fuels are produced afterward.
Diesel fuel
This fuel is created in the middle of the distillation process and resembles oil. It takes less refining to create than gasoline, which typically makes it cheaper. This versatile fuel is used for the transportation industry as well as generators.
Heating fuels
These fuels, also known as heating oils, are heavier so they are developed towards the end of the distillation process. It is much like motor oil and provides a longer-lasting heat. Heating fuel No. 2 is typically used as a heating oil in the home, but it can actually be substituted with diesel No. 2, diesel No.1, and kerosene, among other fuels.
The differences in power between diesel and heating fuels
Both home heating fuels and diesel have heat-producing properties and both produce 139,000 BTUs of energy (British Thermal Units) per gallon. No. 4 and Home Heating Fuel Oil No. 6 have a slightly higher BTU output.
Some considerations for winter
During the winter, standard diesel No. 2 and diesel No. 1 or kerosene can be mixed to help prevent gelling. A similar technique can be used with heating fuels. Although it is not common for heating oils to replace diesel, they can sometimes be used in extreme cold as “Arctic Grade” diesel.
Where does kerosene fit in?
Kerosene is another product made during the refining process. It burns cleaner than heating fuels and won’t gel during the winter. It is favored for its long-lasting burn and cost-efficiency.
High-quality fuel products from Kendrick Oil Company
If you are looking for bulk fuels, Kendrick Oil Company offers high-quality fuel Products and Services throughout Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, and Louisiana. You can reach us at (800) 299-3991 or Contact Us by Email to learn more.
