Rajan Wilcox
Kerosene and diesel fuel are both derived from crude oil, but they differ in terms of their composition, properties, and applications. While diesel fuel has a higher paraffin/wax content and generates more heat (BTUs) than kerosene, kerosene is often preferred in colder climates as it doesn't thicken or gel as easily. Kerosene is also known to burn cleaner, producing less soot and unpleasant odours. However, diesel fuel is more energy-efficient and cost-effective due to its higher energy content and lower price point. This comparison of kerosene and diesel fuel highlights the unique characteristics of each fuel source and how they cater to specific needs and situations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Burning temperature | Kerosene has a higher boiling point than diesel fuel, but diesel produces more BTUs (heat) than kerosene. |
| Cleanliness | Kerosene burns cleaner and produces less soot. |
| Odor | Kerosene has a lower odor than diesel fuel |
| Gelling | Kerosene does not gel as easily as diesel fuel in cold temperatures |
| Lubrication | Diesel contains lubricant additives, while kerosene does not. |
| Cost | Kerosene is generally more expensive than diesel fuel due to road taxes on diesel. |
| Engine compatibility | Some newer diesel engines include kerosene on their list of approved fuels. |
| Safety | Both fuels produce carbon monoxide (CO) and require adequate ventilation. |
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What You'll Learn
Kerosene burns cleaner but diesel has more BTUs
Kerosene and diesel fuel are derived from crude oil, which is made up of carbon and hydrogen atoms. These atoms are arranged in hydrocarbon compound chains that are altered during the refining process to produce different results. Kerosene, also known as #1 Diesel, has a higher boiling point than gasoline or mineral spirits, but a lower boiling point than diesel.
Kerosene is often used in very cold temperatures as it doesn't thicken as easily as diesel. It is distilled into a pure fuel and has no lubricant additives, so it burns cleaner and cooler than diesel. It produces less soot and has a less potent smell. However, it has fewer BTUs than diesel, which means it may reduce the power of your engine and lower the efficiency of your washer.
Diesel fuel, or #2 Diesel, has a higher paraffin/wax content and produces more BTUs (heat) than kerosene. This means it will burn hotter and provide more energy for your money. However, diesel can produce a strong fuel smell that some people find intolerable. It can also cause a build-up of soot and may require additional ventilation to avoid headaches and other health issues.
Both kerosene and diesel fuel have their advantages and disadvantages. Kerosene burns cleaner and is better suited for cold temperatures, but diesel has more BTUs and is more cost-effective. The best choice depends on your specific needs and the type of engine or heater you are using. Some newer diesel engines include kerosene on their list of approved fuels, but it is important to check your owner's manual or consult the manufacturer before making a decision.
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Kerosene is distilled into a pure fuel, diesel has lubricant additives
Kerosene is a hydrocarbon liquid that is commonly used as a fuel. It is typically pale yellow or colourless, with a characteristic odour. Kerosene is obtained from the fractional distillation of petroleum at temperatures between 150 and 275 °C, resulting in a mixture with a density of 0.78–0.81 g/cm3. This process removes volatile hydrocarbon fractions, producing a clear and safe-to-burn fuel. Kerosene has a flash point between 37 °C and 65 °C, making it relatively safe to store and handle. It is also less volatile than gasoline, with a higher flash point. Kerosene is often used in cold temperatures as it doesn't thicken as easily as diesel.
On the other hand, diesel fuel contains lubricant additives to protect modern engine components. These additives are necessary because the desulfurization process, which helps diesel meet ultra-low-sulphur requirements, strips the fuel of its natural lubricating organic compounds. Lubricity additives are essential for the protection of precision components in modern diesel engines, especially high-pressure common-rail (HPCR) engines. Without adequate lubricity, engines may experience increased wear and deposits, reducing power and fuel economy.
Kerosene burns cleaner than diesel fuel, resulting in fewer deposits and toxins. It is recommended for use in enclosed spaces to avoid the obnoxious fuel smell of diesel. However, kerosene produces fewer BTUs (heat) per gallon, which can reduce engine power and efficiency. Kerosene is also generally less expensive than diesel due to road taxes on diesel fuel.
While kerosene burns cleaner, it is important to note that the World Health Organization considers it a polluting fuel. Kerosene smoke contains high levels of harmful particulate matter, and its household use is associated with increased health risks, including respiratory infections, asthma, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
In summary, kerosene is distilled into a pure fuel without the lubricant additives found in diesel, making it burn cooler and cleaner. However, diesel fuel has higher BTUs and better lubricity for modern engines, but it may produce a stronger fuel smell and is more expensive due to road taxes.
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Kerosene is better for cold temperatures
Kerosene is a type of low-viscosity heating oil that is often used in very cold temperatures. It has a lower freeze point than heating oil and diesel fuel, making it suitable for colder environments. While the freezing point of kerosene depends on its grade, it typically freezes around -40 degrees Fahrenheit (-40 to -53 degrees Celsius), whereas heating oil and diesel fuel tend to gel at higher temperatures of around 16 degrees Fahrenheit (-9 degrees Celsius). This makes kerosene ideal for use in places with extremely cold climates, such as Alaska.
One of the benefits of using kerosene in cold temperatures is its ability to prevent gelling or waxing. In colder months, kerosene can be added to diesel fuel to lower the temperature at which diesel begins to solidify. This property of kerosene makes it a preferred choice for use in engines and heaters during winter. Additionally, kerosene burns cleaner than diesel fuel, producing less smoke and odour. The reduced odour of kerosene is particularly advantageous for enclosed spaces, as it minimises the fuel smell in the air.
Kerosene is also recommended for its cleaner burning properties and lower maintenance. It is distilled into a pure fuel, free from lubricant additives commonly found in diesel. This purity contributes to its cleaner combustion and reduced maintenance requirements. However, when using kerosene in a diesel engine, it is crucial to add the appropriate lubricant to prevent strain on the injector pump. Marvel Mystery Oil is suggested as an effective lubricant, added at a ratio of one quart per twenty gallons of kerosene.
In terms of cost, kerosene is generally less expensive than diesel fuel. The price difference is partly due to the road taxes included in the cost of diesel fuel. However, it is important to note that kerosene has lower energy content than diesel, resulting in reduced power and efficiency. Kerosene produces fewer BTUs (heat) per gallon, which may impact the performance of engines and heaters. Nevertheless, in cold temperatures, kerosene's advantages, such as its cleaner burning, lower odour, and reduced gelling, often outweigh the higher energy content of diesel fuel.
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Kerosene is cheaper than diesel
Kerosene is a more refined fuel than diesel, with fewer impurities, which is why it is often burned indoors, as diesel tends to leave a strong odour. Kerosene is also known as paraffin or lamp oil, and is a clear, colourless liquid derived from petroleum. It is commonly used as a fuel for lamps and small engines, as well as for heating and cooking in some parts of the world.
Kerosene has a high flash point, meaning it is less likely to ignite spontaneously compared to other fuels, and it is relatively stable and easy to store. It has a distinctive, slightly pungent smell and is typically sold in containers designed specifically for this substance.
In terms of pricing, kerosene tends to be cheaper than diesel due to the road taxes added to the price of diesel fuel. Kerosene prices can vary depending on geographical location, demand, and the type of kerosene. In some cases, kerosene can be more expensive than diesel, especially during the winter when demand for kerosene is higher. However, generally, kerosene is known to be roughly 20 to 40 cents cheaper than diesel fuel.
Kerosene is often favoured for its cleaner burning properties and lower maintenance. While diesel fuel produces more BTUs (heat) than kerosene, kerosene is preferred in very cold temperatures as it doesn't thicken as easily as diesel. This is why some people add kerosene to their diesel fuel during colder months to lower the temperature at which diesel solidifies.
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Kerosene is recommended for cleaner burning and lower maintenance
Kerosene is recommended for those seeking a cleaner-burning and lower-maintenance fuel option. Kerosene burns cleaner than diesel fuel, producing less soot and a less intense smell. While diesel fuel has higher BTUs than kerosene, kerosene's lower paraffin/wax content means it doesn't gel as quickly in cold temperatures. This makes kerosene a good choice for cold climates, as it can prevent fuel filters from becoming plugged.
Kerosene is also a preferred option for use in enclosed spaces. While both kerosene and diesel produce carbon monoxide (CO), the stronger odour of diesel can become intolerable in enclosed areas. Kerosene's cleaner burn and milder smell make it a more pleasant option for indoor use, provided there is adequate ventilation to mitigate the risk of carbon monoxide exposure.
In terms of maintenance, kerosene's purity as a distilled fuel means it lacks the lubricant additives found in diesel. This can be advantageous as it reduces the risk of soot build-up, which is a common issue with diesel. However, using kerosene in a diesel engine requires the addition of a suitable lubricant to prevent strain on the injector pump. Marvel Mystery Oil is often recommended for this purpose.
The choice between kerosene and diesel fuel ultimately depends on specific needs and engine requirements. Kerosene is a top choice for those prioritising cleanliness, ease of maintenance, and performance in cold temperatures. However, diesel remains a popular option due to its higher energy output and lower cost, despite its stronger odour and tendency to gel in cold conditions.
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Frequently asked questions
Kerosene burns cleaner than diesel fuel.
Kerosene is distilled into a pure fuel, whereas diesel contains lubricant additives. Kerosene has a higher boiling point than diesel, and it doesn't thicken or gel as easily in cold temperatures.
Diesel fuel has a higher energy density than kerosene, producing more BTUs (heat) per gallon. Diesel is also usually cheaper than kerosene.
It depends on your engine. Some newer diesel engines include kerosene on their list of approved fuels. If you use kerosene in a diesel engine, you may need to add a lubricant to the fuel to avoid strain on your injector pump. Always check your owner's manual or with the manufacturer before using kerosene in a diesel engine.
Diesel fuel can produce an unpleasant smell and smoke, especially during startup. It can also cause sooting and fouling of spark plugs in some heaters. However, proper adjustments to fuel pressure and ignition systems can help mitigate these issues.
