Can You Use Diesel as Heating Oil? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is: generally no, you shouldn't use diesel fuel as heating oil. While both are petroleum-based and share some similarities, there are crucial differences that make using diesel in a heating oil system risky and potentially damaging. This article delves into the specifics, addressing common questions and concerns.
What are the differences between diesel and heating oil?
Diesel fuel and heating oil are both distillates of crude oil, but they are refined differently. Heating oil (also known as fuel oil) undergoes a more rigorous refining process to reduce sulfur content and improve its burning characteristics for home heating systems. Diesel, on the other hand, is formulated for use in engines, where different properties are prioritized.
The key differences lie in:
-
Sulfur content: Heating oil has significantly lower sulfur content than diesel. Burning high-sulfur diesel in a heating oil system will lead to excessive soot buildup, clogging the burner and potentially damaging the boiler or furnace. This soot also contributes to poor air quality within your home.
-
Cetane number: This measures how readily the fuel ignites. Heating oil typically has a higher cetane number than diesel, ensuring cleaner and more efficient combustion.
-
Additives: Heating oil often contains additives designed to prevent corrosion and improve the fuel's overall performance in a home heating system. Diesel may contain additives unsuitable for heating applications.
-
Lubricity: Diesel fuel may have different lubrication properties than heating oil, potentially leading to increased wear and tear on the fuel pump and other components of the heating system.
Will using diesel damage my heating system?
Yes, using diesel fuel in a heating oil system can cause significant damage. The higher sulfur content leads to:
- Soot buildup: Clogs the burner and combustion chamber, reducing efficiency and potentially causing a malfunction.
- Corrosion: Damages internal components of the boiler or furnace, leading to costly repairs or replacement.
- Nozzle clogging: The fuel injectors or nozzles can become clogged, preventing proper fuel delivery.
- Increased maintenance: Regular cleaning and servicing will become much more frequent, adding to the overall cost.
What happens if I accidentally put diesel in my heating oil tank?
Even a small amount of diesel contamination can negatively impact the performance and longevity of your heating system. If this happens, it's crucial to:
- Stop using the system immediately. Avoid further damage by turning off the boiler or furnace.
- Contact a qualified heating oil technician. They can assess the extent of the contamination and recommend the best course of action, which might include draining and flushing the tank and fuel lines.
Can I use kerosene as heating oil?
Kerosene is a different fuel altogether, although it's sometimes used in certain types of space heaters. It's not recommended for use in typical home heating oil systems designed for No. 2 heating oil. The systems are not designed to handle kerosene's different properties. Using incorrect fuel can void any warranties.
What are the legal implications of using diesel as heating oil?
While not always explicitly illegal, using diesel fuel in a heating oil system is against the intended use and might affect insurance coverage in case of damage or malfunction. It's always best to use the fuel specifically designed for your system.
In conclusion, while diesel and heating oil might seem similar at first glance, their chemical compositions and intended uses differ significantly. Using diesel in a heating oil system is highly discouraged and can lead to costly repairs, system failure, and potential safety hazards. Always use the correct fuel specified by the manufacturer of your heating system.
