If you run out of home heating oil during the winter, you may wonder if it’s safe to use diesel in your furnaces and burners. While the short answer is yes, you should understand how diesel differs from heating oil and what risks the former may present. Consult the following guide from fuel professionals. 

Using Diesel at Home 

Diesel is primarily used in motor vehicles, generators, and boats, since it’s heavier, less volatile, and more cost-efficient than regular gasoline. Home heating oil bears more of a resemblance to motor oil and burns slowly to optimize heat production. If you don’t have home heating oil on hand, you may use diesel or kerosene products in the short-term to provide power to your furnaces and burners. 

Avoid Long-Term Diesel Use

Keep in mind, however, that diesel is not recommended for long-term use in the home. Since your home heating equipment was built to accept a specific type of fuel, burning anything else for extended periods is more likely to cause wear and tear, breakdowns, and a shorter lifespan. Diesel also burns hotter, which may make it unsafe, and more expensive than home heating oil, which makes costly in the long-term. 

Don’t Use Old Diesel 

You should also be aware that diesel does not last longer than about six months. Even with additives, professionals do not recommend using it after the one-year mark. Diesel rapidly degrades at the end of its lifespan and will no longer burn efficiently. With age, it becomes unsafe, as it poses a greater risk of combustion and fire hazards. 

Keep a steady supply of home heating oil on hand with products from State Fuel Company Inc. They provide prompt fuel delivery services for heating oil and diesel to clients throughout Monroe County, NY. Call (585) 247-2380 to place an order for fuel, and visit them online to learn more about their services.