For centuries, kerosene has been used for heating, cleaning, and lubrication

You might have heard the term kerosene, but you might not know precisely what it is.

Kerosene has been around for centuries and can serve a similar purpose to heating oil. While it’s fallen out of favor as a home heating fuel, kerosene is still used by many homes and businesses on the North Fork and East End of Long Island. We’re happy to deliver it!

Here’s a primer on the history and many uses of kerosene.

What is kerosene?

Kerosene is produced by distilling crude oil at extremely high temperatures. This creates a fuel that burns incredibly hot and has a lower “gel point” than diesel, meaning it can withstand sustained freezing temperatures.

Although kerosene was trademarked in 1854, the process of making it has existed since the 16th century. Before electricity, people used it for lamp lighting. It served many purposes in homes and farms. Kerosene is mentioned in classic novels by Ray Bradbury, John Steinbeck, Laura Ingalls Wilder, and Jack Kerouac.

As electricity, natural gas, No. 2 heating oil, and propane became more widely available to American homes in the 20th century, kerosene usage declined.

How is kerosene used today?

People still use kerosene for heating and fueling stoves in homes with outdoor oil tanks. It’s also used in mobile homes. While kerosene can be stored in the same kind of tank that holds heating oil, only specialized equipment can burn it because of its incredibly hot flame.

Kerosene has many commercial uses — primarily as a solvent and industrial lubricant. It also fuels jets and rockets!

Burt’s Reliable can fill your kerosene needs!

Burt’s Reliable has been heating eastern Long Island homes and businesses for over a century. We have a dependable supply of kerosene for all your residential and commercial purposes.

Since vacation homes are so prevalent in this area of New York, we can ensure that your tank has an adequate amount of kerosene in the frigid winter months — all part of our comprehensive service!

Looking for a dependable kerosene supplier that also offers full-service help with HVAC systems and plumbing? Become a Burt’ Reliable customer!