While electricity reigns supreme in powering home devices, various oils still play a role. Kerosene, one of the most prominent, has been used since the 19th Century and has a number of residential applications. It also has many benefits, which is why it’s important to understand what it is and how you can use it in your home. Here’s what you need to know about this fuel source. 

What Is It?

Kerosene first appeared in the mid-1800s as a replacement for whale oil. It was initially used as fuel for lighting. Also, known as “paraffin,” it’s a combustible liquid harvested from petroleum. It’s formed from hydrocarbons and comes in two grades: 1-K, which burns cleaner and produces fewer toxins, and grade 2-K, which is often used in heating devices.

How Is It Used?

This fuel has seemingly endless applications. It’s still used as lighting fuel, especially for campers or people living in rural areas. It’s also used as jet fuel because it’s highly combustible and can meet the needs of jet engines without the risk of exploding. Kerosene is used for cooking in portable stoves, and it was used in automobiles as an alternative to gasoline. Fire performers also use this fuel during performances. Homeowners commonly use kerosene for heating oil and to clean candle wax stuck to glass.  

Why Is It Beneficial?

An immediate benefit of kerosene is that it’s cheap and portable. It’s also more eco-friendly than wood, coal, and other traditional fuel sources because it releases fewer gases. It can still be toxic, however, which is why it needs to be used in a well-ventilated area. This fuel can be stored for a long time because it’s non-corrosive and won’t wear down containers. Also, it has a long shelf life—roughly one year in plastic containers and up to 10 years in metal containers. Only a single match is required to ignite it, making it highly convenient no matter where you are.

When you need kerosene delivery services in Monroe County, Ontario County, or Wayne County, NY, Monroe Oil Company is your go-to partner. They’ve served the area since 1901 and provide fuel delivery services seven days a week. Call (585) 244-4080 to schedule a delivery, and visit their website to learn more.