What Is Today’s Heating Oil?
In the Northeast, heating oil is a part of everyday life. Its reputation for safety, efficiency, and affordability has made it one of the top heating fuels for homeowners across New Hampshire. Today, the heating oil we know and love is even cleaner and more cost effective. Keep reading to learn all about how heating oil in NH is moving into the future!
What to Know About Modern Heating Oil
Today’s heating oil in NH has a lower sulfur content than traditional heating oil. Modern heating oil has a sulfur content of 15 ppm (parts per million) compared to traditional heating oil’s 4,000 ppm1. Researchers at the Brookhaven National Laboratory have found that modern heating oil significantly reduces emissions and improves heating system performance2. The heating oil of today is compatible with current heating oil equipment and high-efficiency heating systems.
Benefits of Lower Sulfur Content
Less Pollution
Lowering the sulfur content of heating oil to 15 ppm drastically reduces the number of emissions. Burning modern heating oil eliminates 99% of sulfur oxide emissions, compared to yesterday’s home heating oil with 4,000 ppm sulfur. Research has found today’s heating oil to produce significantly less nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions as well3.
Greater Savings
Improved efficiency for your heating system translates to greater cost savings. Today’s heating oil extends the lifespan of heating equipment and increases the time between necessary cleanings. These factors, paired with better fuel economy, help New Hampshire residents save money on annual heating costs.
No Added Cost
The heating oil of today is compatible with most existing oil heating equipment. This means that using modern heating oil in New Hampshire does not incur any conversion costs or inconvenience for oil heat customers. Have questions about your current oil heat system and today’s heating oil? Contact your New Hampshire oil dealer.
Modern Heating Oil vs. Traditional Heating Oil
Today’s heating oil and traditional heating oil are petroleum products distilled from crude oil. The difference comes down to the refining process. Refiners use the process of hydrodesulfurization (HDS) to remove the sulfur component of diesel/heating oil fuels4. Modern heating oil allows NH oil customers to enjoy the benefits of oil heat, with the added perks of an even cleaner, greener fuel.
| Modern Heating Oil | Traditional Heating Oil |
|---|---|
| Sulfur: 15 ppm | Sulfur: 4,000 ppm |
| Non-flammable | Non-flammable |
| Reliable delivery from local dealers | Reliable delivery from local dealers |
| Warm, efficient burn | Warm, efficient burn |
| Extended equipment lifespan | |
| Greater operating efficiency | |
| Reduced NOx and SO2 emissions |