Comfort Line - Biofuel

This quarter our question and answer segment discusses the advantages and disadvantages of biofuels.

What is a biofuel?

These are fuels made from biodegradable organic materials and blended or combined with diesel fuel or heating oil. The blended product is known as biodiesel or bioheat, depending upon whether it is blended with diesel fuel or heating oil.

At what levels are biofuels blended with diesel fuel and heating oil?

Biofuels are typically blended at the level of 5%-20% of the total mixture. These blended fuels are generally designated using a B, followed by a number that represents the percentage mixture. For example, B5 is a fuel that contains 5% biodegradable fuel.

What are biodegradable fuels made of?

The most common ingredients are oils made from agricultural products such as soy beans or animal fats. However, there are biodegradable fuels currently being developed that can be manufactured using almost any type of organic waste material. (See article about renewable fuel.)

What are the advantages of biofuels?

They are domestically produced, thereby decreasing our dependence on foreign oil. In addition, they contain no sulfur, are extremely clean burning and have excellent lubricating qualities that help to keep your system running efficiently.

What are the disadvantages of biofuels?

Biofuels typically have a high pour point and begin to lose their ability to flow easily at temperatures below 35°F. This makes them difficult to handle and blend during the winter. They contain less energy, or BTUs, per gallon than diesel fuel or heating oil. In addition, biofuels are expensive to produce and blend.

Do I have to make any modification to my heating system to burn a biofuel?

No modifications are necessary. A biofuel will give you the same quality heat you get from regular heating oil.

What are the costs of biofuels?

As previously noted, biofuels are generally more expensive to produce than diesel fuel or heating oil. However, there are certain tax incentives available in the production of biofuel that may help to offset this price difference. After taking into account these tax incentives, biofuel could be priced about the same as #2 heating oil.

When will biofuels be available?

At least one major biofuel plant is now under construction in New Jersey. Hart & Iliff is currently evaluating several types of biofuels. We anticipate making them available to our customers as soon as it is practically and economically feasible.

How can I get more information about biofuels?

Call us at 973-383-1421 or visit the website of the National Biodiesel Board (NBB) at www.biodiesel.org.