Kerosene and heating oil are the same thing in the UK domestic context. Both terms refer to C2 grade kerosene, also known as 28-second oil or burning oil. This is the fuel used in the vast majority of domestic oil-fired boilers and cookers across the UK.
What is kerosene?
Kerosene is a refined petroleum product distilled from crude oil. It sits between petrol and diesel in the refining process, and is a clear, thin, relatively low-odour liquid. In the UK it is used primarily for domestic and commercial heating, though globally it is also used as jet fuel (aviation kerosene) and in some parts of the world for cooking and lighting.
In a domestic heating context, kerosene is burned in an oil-fired boiler to heat water, which then circulates through radiators or underfloor heating to warm the home. It is also used in range cookers such as Agas and Rayburns that run on oil.
Why so many names for the same fuel?
The multiple names reflect different classification systems and historical usage:
| Name | What it means |
|---|---|
| Kerosene | The generic chemical name for the fuel type |
| Heating oil | Common consumer term for kerosene used in domestic heating |
| 28-second oil | Refers to its viscosity. It takes 28 seconds to flow through a standard test orifice at 20°C |
| C2 grade | The formal BS 2869 classification for domestic heating kerosene |
| Burning oil | Older term, still used by some suppliers, particularly in Scotland and Northern Ireland |
| Paraffin | The same chemical family. Paraffin for heaters and lamps is a more refined, cleaner-burning version of kerosene |
How is kerosene different from gas oil?
Gas oil (also called red diesel or 35-second oil) is a heavier, less refined fuel than kerosene. It is used primarily in commercial and agricultural settings. Tractors, construction plant, generators, and non-domestic boilers. It burns less cleanly and has a higher sulphur content than domestic kerosene.
Most domestic oil boilers are specifically designed for kerosene and should not be used with gas oil. Some older boilers were designed for gas oil. Check your boiler's manual or the data plate before ordering if you're unsure.
The VAT rates also differ: domestic kerosene is charged at 5% VAT, while gas oil for most commercial uses is charged at 20%.
What about premium kerosene?
Many suppliers offer a premium or "evo" kerosene at a slightly higher price. These are standard kerosene with additives that claim to:
- Reduce boiler fouling and carbon build-up
- Improve combustion efficiency
- Provide corrosion protection for the fuel system
- Reduce sludge formation in the tank
Whether these benefits justify the premium (typically 2–5p per litre more) is debated. For boilers in good condition with regular servicing, standard kerosene performs perfectly well. For older systems or tanks prone to sludge build-up, the additives may provide some benefit. Most heating engineers are neutral to mildly sceptical about the premium versions.
What about HVO, is it a replacement for kerosene?
Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is a renewable fuel made from plant-based and waste feedstocks. It is chemically similar to fossil kerosene and works as a drop-in replacement in most modern oil boilers without any modification. It reduces carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to fossil kerosene.
HVO is currently more expensive than standard kerosene, typically 15–25% higher per litre, and availability from domestic suppliers is growing but not yet universal. It represents the most straightforward path for oil-heated households wanting to reduce their carbon footprint without replacing their boiler.
How is kerosene stored?
Kerosene is stored in an above-ground plastic or steel tank on your property, typically in a garden, side passage, or outbuilding. Standard domestic tanks range from 500 to 2,500 litres. The fuel is delivered by tanker and pumped directly into your tank through a fill point.
Stored correctly in a sealed, bunded tank away from direct sunlight, kerosene remains usable for 12–18 months. Degradation can occur if the tank is exposed to prolonged heat or if water contamination occurs. Signs include discolouration or a hazy appearance in the fuel.
Is kerosene dangerous?
Kerosene is flammable but has a relatively high flash point (around 38°C minimum) compared to petrol, making it safer to store and handle. Normal household use with a properly installed and serviced boiler carries very low risk. The main hazards are:
- Spills: highly persistent in soil and can contaminate groundwater. Any spill should be cleaned up immediately and reported to the Environment Agency if it reaches a drain or watercourse.
- Tank leaks: use a bunded tank to contain any leak before it reaches the ground
- Fuel theft: heating oil is a target for theft, particularly in rural areas. Locking fill points and anti-siphon devices are worth fitting.
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