What type of oil is commonly used in residential oil burners?

No. 2 heating oil is the most commonly used type of oil in residential oil burners. It is preferred because of its optimal balance of cost and energy content, making it suitable for home heating applications. No. 2 heating oil is a middle-distillate fuel, which means it has a higher viscosity compared to lighter oils, resulting in a good combustion quality when burned in residential oil burners.

This type of oil provides a greater energy density, ensuring efficient heat production. Additionally, No. 2 heating oil is easier to handle and transport than some other types of heating oils, making it convenient for residential use.

While other options like No. 1 heating oil and No. 4 heating oil serve specific purposes or might be used in particular applications, they are not commonly utilized in residential settings. Vegetable oil, although it can be used in some specialized applications, does not meet the energy delivery or efficiency needs of standard residential oil burners.