According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the Northeast is the country’s biggest consumer of home heating oil. While natural gas has become popular in other regions, many home and business owners across Connecticut continue to rely on oil to stay warm every winter. In recent years, the government has imposed limits on the amount of sulfur used in these products. If you want to know more about the contents of your home’s furnace, here’s more information about this compound.

Sulfur & Home Heating Oil

Sulfur is a component of home heating oil that helps create consistent warmth and an efficient burn. However, when it burns, it’s known to produce a gas called sulfur dioxide, which is the main component of acid rain. In addition to causing deforestation, this can irritate peoples’ nasal passages and make breathing difficult. For this reason, environmentalists and health activists called on manufacturers to limit the sulfur content in oil. 

To do this, the liquid is refined through a process known as hydrodesulfurization (HDS). This lowers the traditional sulfur content in oil from 4,000 ppm (parts per million) to 15 ppm, producing Ultra-Low Sulfur Heating Oil (ULSHO). This material provides the same power as other oils, while significantly reducing the amount of sulfur dioxide produced by households.

ULSHO regulations in Connecticut

In 2018, the state of Connecticut passed legislation requiring all home heating oil sold in the state to be ULSHO. Another benefit of this is that it reduces the amount of soot and scaling produced during burning, which helps homeowners avoid repairs and premature replacement of burners and furnaces.

By using a ULSHO product, not only will you continue to feel comfortable at home, but you’ll also feel good knowing you’re participating in changes that help protect the environment and its precious resources.

For over 24 years, Norwich Discount Oil has been providing home heating oil to customers across most of New London County and parts of Southern Windham County, CT. This family-owned and -operated business takes pride in offering products at affordable rates. They also serve commercial clients. Learn more about what they provide online, or call (860) 886-5508 to discuss your needs.