There is some confusion surrounding red diesel and what applications it can and can’t be used for. For instance, while it’s similar to home heating oil, there are some chemical differences that make them very unlike each other. It’s important not to confuse the two!
What is Red Diesel?
Red diesel, or off-road diesel, is a rebated fuel with the VAT rate set lower than regular diesel. It has higher sulfur content and is not taxed, unlike consumer motor fuel. This type of diesel is dyed red to show that it can only be used for certain types of vehicles and equipment. It’s illegal to use red diesel in vehicles that do not relate to those industries.
Residential Uses for Red-Dyed Diesel
Most home heating systems that use heating oil can use red-dyed diesel. Though heating oil and red diesel are the same red color, the latter is Ultra-Low Sulfur fuel while the other is High Sulfur. Off-road diesel can be used as a heating oil substitute, but heating oil cannot be used as a red diesel substitute. Authorities randomly check diesel to make sure it’s the right one being used, otherwise high fines and possible jail time can occur.
Commercial Uses for Off-Road Diesel
The main industries that use red diesel are construction, farming, agriculture, manufacturing, hospitals, and data centers. Construction companies use this type of diesel in off-road vehicles and equipment like bulldozers, bobcats, generators, and backhoes. Farmers use it in the equipment to farm their fields while even carnivals and fairs can use it for their diesel engines.
Other Names for Red Diesel
Red-dyed diesel has many names depending on the industry and where it’s being used.
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- Agricultural Diesel
- Farm Diesel
- Gas Diesel
- Generator Diesel
- 35 Seconds
- Cherry Juice
- Digger Fuel
- Off-Road Diesel
- Tax-Free Diesel
- Untaxed Diesel
- Red Diesel
- Red Dyed Diesel
- Dyed Diesel #1 (higher grade)
- Dyed Diesel #2 (lower grade)
No matter what you call it, it’s important to understand the restrictions surrounding red diesel’s use. Otherwise, you might get hefty fines and penalties.
Hart Fueling provides dependable off-road diesel delivery services on your schedule. You’ll receive high-quality red diesel for your vehicles and equipment wherever they are.
You can also check out our Our Top 10 Useful Red Dyed Diesel FAQs to learn more about off-road diesel.