Oil and LPG are two of the most common off-grid heating fuels. Homeowners without access to mains gas often rely on these options. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Heating cost is a primary concern. Fuel choice also affects maintenance, availability, storage, and carbon output.
Oil Vs LPG Heating: Which is Cheaper？
Heating Oil Basics
Heating oil is a refined petroleum product. It is stored in tanks and used in dedicated oil boilers. It produces high heat output. It is widely used in rural areas. It requires regular deliveries by tanker. It is also known as kerosene or 28-second oil.
LPG Heating Explained
LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is a by-product of natural gas processing and crude oil refining. It is stored in pressurized tanks. It burns cleanly and is suitable for use in both boilers and cookers. LPG can be delivered in bulk or used from exchangeable bottles.
Fuel Cost Per Unit
Cost per unit is key when comparing heating fuels. Oil prices are usually given in pence per litre. LPG is priced per litre or per kilogram. The energy content of each fuel is different. Heating oil offers around 10 kWh per litre. LPG provides around 6.6 kWh per litre. But price per kWh must be considered, not just volume cost.
Typical Price Range of Heating Oil
The price of heating oil fluctuates with global crude oil prices. Domestic heating oil typically ranges from 60p to 85p per litre. Prices can spike in winter months. Homeowners can benefit from buying in bulk or joining an oil club.
LPG Price Trends
LPG prices are more stable but tend to be higher per litre. Typical LPG costs range from 65p to 90p per litre. Bottled LPG is more expensive than bulk supply. Like oil, prices may rise in cold months.
Cost per Kilowatt-Hour (kWh)
To compare fuels fairly, use cost per kWh. Heating oil provides roughly 10 kWh/litre. If oil costs 70p/litre, the kWh cost is 7p. LPG gives about 6.6 kWh/litre. At 75p/litre, the cost is around 11.3p per kWh. Oil is generally cheaper per kWh.
Efficiency of Heating Systems
Modern condensing oil boilers can achieve 90% efficiency. LPG boilers also reach high efficiency levels. Actual system performance varies. Maintenance and age affect efficiency. System upgrades improve cost-effectiveness.
Boiler and Equipment Costs
Oil boilers and LPG boilers are similarly priced. Installation costs can differ. LPG systems may need reinforced pipework. Oil tanks often cost more to install and maintain. Both systems require annual servicing.
Maintenance and Servicing Needs
Oil boilers need filter changes, nozzle checks, and soot removal. LPG boilers are generally cleaner and easier to service. Poorly maintained systems use more fuel. Annual servicing is vital for efficiency and safety.
Fuel Storage Requirements
Oil requires a large tank. It must comply with environmental regulations. Leaks can be costly and hazardous. LPG is stored in cylinders or tanks. Tanks can be above or below ground. LPG suppliers may lease tanks, reducing upfront cost.
Delivery and Supply Considerations
Oil deliveries must be scheduled in advance. Delays can cause heating outages. LPG suppliers often monitor tank levels remotely. Automatic refills help avoid supply issues. Rural locations can face access problems in winter.
Availability and Supplier Choice
Oil is widely available from many distributors. LPG suppliers are fewer in number. LPG supply contracts may restrict choice. Oil users can switch providers easily. Local competition affects pricing and service.
System Lifespan and Reliability
Oil boilers are robust and last 15–25 years. LPG boilers offer similar lifespan. Quality of installation impacts longevity. Parts for oil boilers are widely available. Regular maintenance prevents breakdowns.
Environmental Impact Comparison
Oil has higher carbon emissions per kWh. LPG burns cleaner with lower CO2 output. Both are fossil fuels with environmental drawbacks. Condensing boilers reduce emissions. Upgrades to newer systems improve performance.
Safety Factors in Use and Storage
Oil is less volatile but can cause soil contamination if leaked. LPG is flammable and under pressure. It requires strict storage rules. Safety valves and proper venting reduce risks. Professional installation ensures compliance.
Insurance and Compliance Issues
Heating oil tanks must meet fire and spill regulations. Insurance may require regular checks. LPG systems must pass pressure and leak tests. Non-compliance can void policies. Annual inspections keep systems within legal standards.
Adaptability for Home Extensions
LPG is more flexible for adding kitchen appliances or underfloor heating. Oil systems can support extensions with larger boilers. Upgrading controls improves zoning. Storage capacity must be assessed when extending homes.
Cooking and Water Heating Flexibility
LPG supports dual-use systems. It can fuel cookers, hobs, and hot water. Oil is usually limited to space and water heating. LPG’s instant heat is a benefit for cooking. Multifunctional use can improve value.
Seasonal Performance and Cold Weather Use
Oil performs well in cold weather. It has a high flash point and good flow when additives are used. LPG pressure drops in freezing conditions. Special tanks or insulation may be needed. Both systems need winter preparation.
User Experience and Satisfaction
Oil users report high satisfaction with reliability and cost. LPG users highlight cleanliness and convenience. Maintenance ease and delivery reliability shape opinions. Personal experience often influences loyalty.
Off-Grid Heating Alternatives
Some homeowners explore biomass or electric heating. Heat pumps are an option for low-temperature systems. Initial costs and property suitability vary. Oil and LPG remain dominant off-grid solutions.
Long-Term Running Costs
Oil usually has lower running costs per year. LPG may have higher fuel bills but lower servicing expenses. Tank rental fees add to LPG costs. Accurate comparison requires full lifecycle assessment.
Total Cost of Ownership Analysis
Total cost includes fuel, maintenance, servicing, and equipment. Oil offers lower fuel costs but higher maintenance. LPG is cleaner but may be more expensive overall. Long-term planning helps manage costs.
Which Fuel is More Economical for Heating?
On a cost-per-kWh basis, oil is cheaper. LPG offers more flexibility and cleaner operation. Personal preferences and property layout affect decisions. Calculating annual fuel use gives better cost insight.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Between Oil and LPG
Both oil and LPG heating systems have pros and cons. Oil is generally cheaper per unit of heat. LPG is easier to manage and install in some cases. Understanding all cost factors supports better decisions. There is no single answer for every home. Each homeowner must weigh upfront costs, running expenses, and convenience.
Conclusion
Compare costs based on your fuel usage. Calculate kWh needs and match with current prices. Include installation and servicing in your estimates. Review supplier options and tank arrangements. Consult heating engineers before switching systems. Oil may win on cost, but LPG may offer ease of use. Your budget, property, and heating habits should guide the final choice
Related Topics
- Do Farmers Still Use Red Diesel?
- Should Tractors with Fuel Troubles Use Red Diesel?
- How to Dye Red Diesel Green?