When crude oil, or petroleum, is processed, many byproducts are created. Of these, you’ll find two popular oil products: kerosene and diesel. So how exactly do these offshoots differ, and how might you make use of them in your everyday life? If you’re hoping to learn more, take a look at this informative comparison.

Diesel

You probably recognize this term from regular trips to the gas pump. That’s because diesel is most widely used as an automotive fuel. While most cars used to feature diesel-powered engines, these days, it’s mainly utilitarian vehicles and large trucks that run on the fuel. Diesel is also used in factories and other environments that contain heavy-duty mechanical equipment. 

Diesel is prized for its minimal carbon dioxide emissions when compared to gasoline. There are also many diesel alternatives on the market, which are not derived solely from crude oil, or petroleum. Biodiesel is a fuel derived from the fatty acids in plants and animals, and it’s sometimes mixed with standard diesel. Synthetic diesel fuel is human-made from natural gas. These alternatives are prized for their relative eco-friendliness to standard diesel.

Kerosene

While you might associate this oil with lanterns in storybooks, kerosene continues to be used today as reliable heating oil. It’s prized as a residential HVAC fuel because of its eco-friendliness. Kerosene results in fewer carbon dioxide emissions than coal or wood-burning systems.

It also produces less harmful fumes, which results in less pollution and cleaner indoor air. Because it’s non-corrosive, it’s safe to store kerosene in an oil tank on your property for months at a time. In its wax or paraffin form, kerosene is even cleaner-burning. When compared to diesel, this crude oil byproduct is less expensive and has a lower boiling point. This means it takes less energy to heat up and use, costing you less on your monthly utility bills. 

If you’re interested in warming your living space with kerosene or another type of home heating oil, reach out to Ike's Fuel of Douglas, AK. They provide #1 and #2 heating oil to home and business owners throughout the Juneau, AK, area. They have half a century of experience as an independent and family-owned heating oil supply company. To learn more about their offerings, including oil tanks, visit the website. You can also call (907) 364-3420 to set up automatic kerosene deliveries.