Kerosene, originally being used in oil lamps in the 1860s is now estimated to be heating around 1.5 million homes within the UK. Heating Oil is more common in houses that are located off the mains gas grid. Kerosene is one of the most popular oils used to heat homes in the UK whereas gas oil is more popular within Europe and here, gas oil is more popularly used in the agricultural sector to power tractors and other machinery.

Brief History

First discovered in 1846 by Abraham Gesner, kerosene was produced by heating coal and distilling a fluid from it that would be ideal for lamp fuel, naming it Kerosene. It wasn’t till later in 1954 when kerosene went into production for the very first time.

How Is Kerosene Produced?

Kerosene is extracted from the natural oil petroleum, found beneath the ground. Petroleum is drilled out of the ground and turned into a number of fuels including petrol, butane, propane, lubricating oil and kerosene. Kerosene’s colour is naturally a pale light colour but often is dyed to distinguish it from other fuels.

Benefits Of Kerosene

With several other ways to heat your home, why do so many people choose kerosene as their fuel of choice?

• When it comes to heating your home, kerosene is one of the more cheaper options, however, due to the fluctuating market, prices can vary through the year.

• From the lack of fumes produced, kerosene is seen as more environmentally fuel than wood or coal. Despite this kerosene does emit some poisonous gases which can be harmful if breathed in.

• it’s a non-corrosive fuel which means it can be stored and kept for years if maintained correctly.

• It’s a highly efficient fuel, meaning you get a good return for each unit of energy.

• Can be used for cookers such as AGA and other traditional ranges

Other Uses For Kerosene

Kerosene uses range from fuel for oil lamps to jet fuel, heating oil, cleaning agents or fuel for cooking. It can be used efficiently and safely in many different ways. Uses for kerosene are generally more popular for heat and power especially for houses that are off the mains gas grid, but as you can see kerosene is capable than more than that. One of the more dangerous uses of the oil would be in the entertainment industry when it is used in fire breathing, juggling and dancing.