Kerosene shortage hits retailers and customers, but there are solutions (2024)

[anvplayer video=”5141016″ station=”998132″]

Home heating costs are expected to jump this winter, and there is one fuel that’s creating more pain at the pump than any other.

Customers have been left high and dry because of the kerosene shortage.

The war in Ukraine, a cut in foreign oil production, inflation, and supply chain issues have created a perfect storm that’s pushed the price of home heating fuels through the roof.

When it comes to kerosene, retailers are not asking how much, they’re asking how can we find it.

Family Danz Heating and Cooling have long prided itself on quality fuel delivery for every customer. However, this year, kerosene won’t be pumped out of their trucks and into your home tank.

Kerosene shortage hits retailers and customers, but there are solutions (1)

“At this point, we are not going to be carrying kerosene. It’s $10. Nobody can afford that,” said Kerry Hoenig, with Family Danz.

Hoenig is not alone. Retailers across the Capital Region tell 13 Investigates their wells have run dry, and there is no kerosene to be found at any price.

The Port of Albany has not seen a shipment in months, and no one seems to know when it might come ashore.

Watch Tessa Bentulan’s story to see how kerosene – compared to other fuels – is pricey even before supplies dried up.

[anvplayer video=”5141029″ station=”998132″]

Kerosene shortage hits retailers and customers, but there are solutions (2024)

FAQs

What is a substitute for kerosene? ›

Diesel fuel is heavier than kerosene but it will burn in most kerosene applications with a lot of smoke. Diesel fuel thinned out with a little bit of mineral spirits can also take the place of kerosene. Lamp oil is basically what I've just told you a mineral spirit and diesel fuel mix.

Why is kerosene so expensive in the US? ›

Crude Oil Prices

Kerosene is derived from crude oil, so one of the most significant factors affecting its cost is the price of crude oil in the global market. When crude oil prices rise, it tends to lead to higher kerosene prices as well.

Is kerosene bad for the environment? ›

Kerosene contributes to greenhouse gas emissions

All fossil fuels, including kerosene, release 'greenhouse gases' like carbon monoxide. This is directly attributed to global warming. However, if you still rely on fossil fuels for home heating, kerosene is one of the most environmentally-friendly options.

Why is kerosene scarce? ›

Scarcity of kerosene is attributed to diversion of the product by some marketers. Sharp practices by middlemen are other reasons for the high price of kerosene. Obviously the supply of the product is inadequate. It is the primary cause of the high cost of kerosene.

What time of year is kerosene cheapest? ›

Summer Months: Historically, the summer months (May through September) tend to be the best time to buy heating oil. During this period, demand for heating oil is low because most households do not require heating. This reduced demand can result in lower prices.

Why did we stop using kerosene? ›

Kerosene smoke contains high levels of harmful particulate matter, and household use of kerosene is associated with higher risks of cancer, respiratory infections, asthma, tuberculosis, cataract, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Ingestion of kerosene is harmful.

What is cheaper to burn kerosene or propane? ›

Even though kerosene can be more expensive than propane, it may cost less for heating when you factor in that heating efficiency. If the environment is a concern, propane burns much cleaner than kerosene so your carbon footprint is reduced by using propane. Propane's biggest advantage is its versatility.

Is kerosene being phased out? ›

It is beginning to happen but needs to be accelerated. This decade is almost certain to witness the full phasing out of kerosene as fuel used for space heating. It does not follow that there is not an important role for a low carbon liquid fuel, such as HVO, to replace it.

Is kerosene cancerous? ›

Summary of Health Effects

Skin exposure to kerosene may result in dermatitis through the extraction of endogenous skin lipids. Whilst kerosene is not considered a direct-acting dermal carcinogen, chronic skin exposure may result in tumourigenesis.

Is jet fuel just kerosene? ›

Jet fuel (Jet A-1, kerosene)

The fuel type is kerosene. Jet A-1 has a flash point higher than 38°C and a freezing point of -47°C. Jet A is a similar kerosene fuel type that is normally available only in the U.S. After refining, aviation fuel is mixed with extremely small amounts of several additives.

What is the problem with kerosene? ›

Breathing in large amounts can result in coma, loss of muscle control, heart and lung problems. Kerosene can cause the skin to become irritated, dry and cracked; if the skin is exposed for a long time then burns may develop. Dermatitis (eczema) can develop if exposure to the skin happens often.

What is wrong use of kerosene? ›

Air pollution

Inhaling carbon monoxide reduces the ability of the blood to transmit oxygen to different parts of the body and increases the risk of narrowed or blocked blood vessels. This means that families who use kerosene lamps are more at risk of contracting cardiovascular diseases and blood pressure.

Why do people buy kerosene? ›

What are the uses of kerosene? Kerosene's uses vary dramatically from fuel for oil lamps to cleaning agents, jet fuel, heating oil or fuel for cooking. It can be used safely and efficiently to get great results in many areas.

What is the same as kerosene? ›

Over the years, the names kerosene and paraffin, with the two fuels names becoming interchangeable by many people. This most likely happened due them both being very similar kinds of oil. Kerosene is often referred to as paraffin in the UK, but also in parts of East and South Africa too.

Can I use oil instead of kerosene? ›

Using heating oil or kerosene

If your tank is inside of your home or business, you should use heating oil. If your tank is built on the outside of your home or business, then you should use kerosene (or a blend of both fuels) since it will operate better when temperatures are low.

What can you burn in a kerosene heater besides kerosene? ›

And kerosene other than 1-K grade can gum up the wick. Never use a substitute such as gasoline or camp stove fuel.

What can I use in place of kerosene in a lamp? ›

Olive Oil: An odorless, smokeless renewable fuel that is a popular alternative to kerosene or lamp oil.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Patricia Veum II

Last Updated:

Views: 6078

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (44 voted)

Reviews: 83% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Patricia Veum II

Birthday: 1994-12-16

Address: 2064 Little Summit, Goldieton, MS 97651-0862

Phone: +6873952696715

Job: Principal Officer

Hobby: Rafting, Cabaret, Candle making, Jigsaw puzzles, Inline skating, Magic, Graffiti

Introduction: My name is Patricia Veum II, I am a vast, combative, smiling, famous, inexpensive, zealous, sparkling person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.