Though they're both used to fuel engines, there are many differences between farm fuels (also called off-road fuel) and transportation fuels (on-road fuel). Based on your profession, it's quite possible that you've recently used both— and it's great to know what each type of fuel entails. Here to explain several of their distinctions is Main Energy, a family-owned oil company that provides diesel, kerosene, propane tank, and oil delivery services at a competitive price point.

One of the biggest differences between the two types of fuels is sulfur content. Regulated by the government, on-road diesel fuel's sulfur content has greatly decreased over time— in 1993, auto diesel was sold at 5,000 parts per million (ppm), and in 2006 that measurement plummeted to 15 ppm regulated standards. The sulfur content changes for transportation fuels were enforced to help minimize air pollution.

While on-road fuel is held to an "ultra-low" criteria, off-road fuel is exempt from these requirements. It's completely legal to use the 500 ppm fuel typical to off-road functions, but it may be difficult to find a vendor that provides both off-road and on-road diesel fuel. For residents in New York, Main Energy is a great source for both forms of fuel.

When you're looking at the differences between on-road and off-road fuels, their unique dyes make it possible to visually distinguish between the two forms. Also called clear fuel due to its color, on-road diesel can be found at any gas station and can be used by everyday transportation vehicles like SUVs, cars, trucks, and boats. All licensed on-road vehicles are required to use clear fuel. 

However, red-colored fuel isn't found at most gas stations (because it isn't subject to taxes) and is better suited for off-road vehicles such as tractors, agriculture and construction equipment, and generators. If you need off-road fuel or farm fuel, Main Energy provides reliable delivery schedules and one-time only bulk orders.

Located in Palmyra, New York, Main Energy is a leading provider of fuel oil that's available at a reasonable price. To receive more information about their services, visit their website or call (315) 597-5200 to speak with one of their friendly representatives.