Understanding the difference between paraffin and kerosene

When you’re looking for a heating oil for your property, two different options you probably come across quite frequently are paraffin and kerosene. But how can you choose between these two options? And what are the differences between the two heating oils? Well, here at Compass Fuel Oils, we are the UK’s leading provider of fuel oils like red diesel and kerosene, as well as lubricants and greases. And this is our guide to everything you should know about paraffin and kerosene and the difference between them.

What is paraffin?

Paraffin are a major component of petrol and natural gas. As a heating fuel for homes and residential settings, paraffin is available in a liquid form, but it also takes the form of petroleum jelly, and paraffin wax. It can also be used as a lubricant for machinery and as a coolant for electrical systems, as well as a hydraulic fluid.

Refined or distilled paraffin is a high quality heating fluid that is specifically designed for interior use, with additives that reduce the smell. This can be used safely within the home, for stoves and lamps.

What is kerosene?

Kerosene is a specific type of paraffin. In fact, general paraffin for use as a heating fluid is often called kerosene, and the terms can be used interchangeably. So whether you opt for kerosene or paraffin for home use, you are essentially using the same product.

As a light or colourless liquid, kerosene is also referred to as heating oil. With a high flash point, kerosene can be a great option for your domestic boiler.

So, what is the difference?

Ultimately, kerosene is a type of paraffin, but paraffin products can encompass more than simply kerosene, or liquid heating oil. But whether you choose a premium paraffin, or a premium kerosene, you can be sure that this heating oil is perfect for powering boilers in both domestic and commercial properties.

What are the advantages of premium kerosene?

Although these two fuels are one and the same, premium kerosene is probably the best option for heating your property and for use with your heating system. There are a number of advantages to premium kerosene, including:

  • reducing or preventing the build up of sludge
  • longer lasting
  • can be more cost effective in the long term

Premium kerosene is also perfect for anyone with a Rayburn cooker or AGA.

Choose Compass Fuel Oils for your heating oils

Here at Compass Fuel Oils we supply and deliver both C1 paraffin and kerosene to all locations across the UK in just 1-3 days. For C1 paraffin, we can deliver both 200 litre barrels and 1000 litre IBCs nationwide. For kerosene heating oil, we can offer you anything from a single 205 litre barrel up to 36,500 litres on an articulated tanker!

For high quality fuel oils like paraffin and kerosene, get in touch with the team here at Compass Fuel Oils today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Deliveries

  • What areas do you deliver to?

    We deliver to most regions in the UK. To check if we service your area, please use our delivery postcode checker or contact our support team 01772 619 461 

  • What is the minimum order quantity for delivery?

    The minimum order quantity varies depending on the fuel type. For most orders, it is 500 litres, but smaller deliveries may be available upon request for example barrels of 205l fuel.

  • How long does delivery take?

    Standard deliveries typically take 3–5 working days. We also offer express delivery options for urgent orders.

  • What should I do if my tank is overfilled or damaged during delivery?

    Please report any issues to our customer service team immediately. We will investigate and resolve the issue promptly.

  • Can I change or cancel my delivery?

    Yes, you can modify or cancel your delivery by contacting us at least 24 hours before the scheduled delivery time.

  • Do you charge a delivery fee?

    Standard delivery is included in the fuel price for most orders. Express deliveries or orders below the minimum quantity may incur additional fees.

  • What types of vehicles are used for delivery?

    We use a fleet of fuel tankers suitable for residential, commercial, and agricultural deliveries. For restricted access locations, we may send a smaller vehicle.

  • What if my delivery is delayed?

    While we strive to deliver on time, delays can occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. If your delivery is delayed, we will notify you as soon as possible.

  • What should I do to prepare for a delivery?

    Ensure your tank is easily accessible, remove any obstructions, and secure pets or gates. If your tank has a lock, please make sure it is unlocked.

  • How will I know when my delivery will arrive?

    You will receive a notification with an estimated delivery date once your order is confirmed. On the day of delivery, our driver may contact you directly.

  • Do I need to be present during the delivery?

    In most cases, you don’t need to be present as long as your tank is accessible and ready for filling.

  • What happens if I’m not available during the delivery?

    If you’re not available, our driver can deliver the fuel to your tank as long as it is accessible and safe to do so. If access is restricted, we will contact you to reschedule.

  • Can I schedule my delivery?

    Absolutely. You can choose a preferred delivery date during the order process. We’ll do our best to accommodate your request.

  • Do you offer same-day or next-day delivery?

    Yes, same-day and next-day delivery options are available in select areas. Additional charges may apply.

Payments

  • What currency are payments processed in?

    Payments are processed in GBP (British Pounds). If you are paying from outside the UK, your bank may apply conversion fees.

  • Is my payment information secure?

    Absolutely. We use industry-standard encryption and secure payment gateways to protect your payment details.

  • Can I request an extension on my payment due date?

    Yes, payment extensions may be available upon request. Please contact our billing team to discuss options.

  • Do you offer refunds?

    Refunds are processed in accordance with our refund policy. Please contact our support team for further assistance.

  • How can I update my payment details?

    You can update your payment details by contacting our customer service team. 

  • Can I split my payment across multiple methods?

    Unfortunately, we do not support splitting payments across multiple methods at this time.

  • What should I do if my payment is declined?

    If your payment is declined, double-check your payment details and try again. If the issue persists, contact your bank or our support team for assistance.

  • How do I receive my invoice or receipt?

    Invoices and receipts are sent to your registered email address or by letter.

  • Is there a surcharge for using a credit card?

    No, we do not charge additional fees for payments made using a credit card.

  • Do you offer credit terms for businesses?

    Yes, we provide credit terms for eligible business customers. Please contact our sales team to discuss account setup and terms.

  • Can I set up a direct debit or recurring payment?

    Yes, you can set up direct debit or recurring payments to ensure timely and hassle-free billing.

  • What payment methods do you accept?

    We accept a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, direct bank transfers. For business customers, we also offer account-based billing.

  • I paid for my order by card, I received less fuel than I paid for due to the tank being full, what happens now?

    We have a couple of options available, we can refund your payment card, this takes 3-5 working days from the date we process your refund. Alternatively, we can leave the credit sat on your account and adjust this amount from the payment for your next order.