The Pros and Cons of Kerosene

Advantages

More eco-friendly than other fossil fuels

When in its paraffin form, kerosene burns quite cleanly and produces far fewer fumes than other fossil fuels like oil or coal. Kerosene even produces fewer fumes than a simple log on a wood-burning fire.

Safe and carcinogen-free

Due to its cleanly during flame and lack of fumes, kerosene is safe to burn indoors, and won’t fill your home with harmful chemicals. This is why kerosene has been popularised as a home heating fuel. The fumes it produces also contain no recognised cancer-causing agents (carcinogens).

Versatile and modifiable

Kerosene is a versatile fuel available in a range of different variations suited to different uses. Some types of kerosene burn cleaner, hotter, or faster than others depending on its function. Kerosene is also a versatile substance in general, and has been used as both a cleaning agent and a pesticide.

Highly combustible but non explosive

Kerosene is highly combustible, making it an efficient fuel and incredibly easy to light. However, the low level of fumes it produces means it is not explosive, making it not well suited for use as road vehicle fuel, but perfect for heating homes. However, its low viscosity and low freezing point do suit it well for use as aerospace fuel.

Disadvantages

Contributes to greenhouse gasses and harmful emissions
Although kerosene is cleaner than most other fossil fuels, it is still an oil-based fuel and, as such, burning it does contribute to global greenhouse gas emissions, furthering the damaging effect of these emissions on our planet.

Very difficult to recycle

Like used oil, non-renewable oils like kerosene are very difficult to recycle and thus usually ends up disposed of. This makes its negative impact on the environment more pronounced as the fuel cannot be re-used to offset its emissions.

Subject to price fluctuations with the oil market

A huge host of social and market factors influence the price of oils, whether they’re heating oils like kerosene or petroleum fuels like petrol and diesel. Current markets, global geopolitics, supply and demand, and global events like the covid-19 pandemic all contribute to the fluctuations of price for kerosene.

What other services do we offer?

For orders or free advice please call 0330 128 9838.

Why choose Compass Fuels?

  • 100% UK nationwide delivery coverage.
  • Rapid delivery times – Our standard delivery time is next-day but ask us about same-day deliveries.
  • Flexible credit terms – Up to 30 days following month of invoice for customers paying via direct debit.
  • 24/7 – 365 days order line & help desk.
  • One stop shop – 1 number for everything fuel related – 0330 128 9838.
  • Fuel bowser hire & sales, spill containment equipment and fuel pumping equipment.

Emergency Fuel Oil Delivery Service

Ask us about same-day deliveries and get refueled in just a few hours. This service is available 365 days a year, day and night, allowing us to supply diesel straight to your site right when you need it the most.

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Tractor working in a field, collecting hay bales under a cloudy sky.

Red Diesel Prices UK

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Red Diesel remains the preferred fuel for agriculture and other approved sectors. Prices are stable, with the current average price around 68ppl. However, this figure can vary depending on location, delivery size and market conditions, so it should only be used as a…

Green fuel delivery vehicle from Compass navigating a snowy garden path surrounded by hedges.

Heating Oil Prices UK

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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.