Bio-Heat FAQS

What is Bio-Heat?

Bio-Heat is a cleaner burning fuel made from a blend of refined vegetable oil and petroleum (#2 heating oil). A blend of 5% bio-fuel and 95% petroleum-based heating oil is referred to as “B-5” and is sometimes referred to as biodiesel. Other typical blends are B-10 and B-20. The main reason for using a blend instead of a 100% bio-fuel (“B-100”) is because B-100 will cloud or gel at very cold temperatures. Using a blend of B-20 or less avoids this problem. Once blended, B-5 will not separate. Bio-Heat is made from U.S. grown, renewable products like soybean oil. Using Bio-Heat strengthens our economy and increases our energy independence.

How can I use Bio-Heat?

Once you join the CET Bio-Heat Co-op, you’ll be assigned to a reputable, full-service dealer who will deliver the Bio-Heat blend just as they would normally deliver regular heating oil.

Do I need special equipment to burn Bio-Heat oil?

No. Bio-Heat can be used in any conventional oil burner. While Bio-Heat can increase burner life and reduce maintenance, regular heating system inspections and good maintenance are always good practice.

Does Bio-Heat give off as much heat as regular heating oil?

Yes. Bio-Heat will burn the same and give off the same heat as regular heating oil. Bio-Heat burns more completely than regular heating oil, which means your furnace will operate more efficiently.

I still have regular oil in my tank – canyou deliver Bio-Heat anyway?

You do not have to have an empty tank to get Bio-Heat. As Bio-Heat is a blend of vegetable and petroleum-based heating oil, it will mix with the oil already in your tank.

Is Bio-Heat more expensive than regular heating oil?

Bio-Heat may cost a few cents more per gallon but with Co-op savings, it will likely cost less than conventional heating oil. We believe the price difference between regular oil and Bio-Heat will disappear as the price of fossil fuel oil rises and use of Bio-Heat grows.

How much does it cost to join CET’s Bio-Heat Co-op?

The annual fee to join the Bio-Heat Co-op is $15 per household, $25 for businesses, and $7 for students and low-income households.

The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) has approved specifications for quality assurance of Bio-Heat. This standard ensures that the product will not harm equipment due to poor fuel characteristics. Tests confirm that Bio-Heat can be used with few or no modifications to the equipment or operating practices in space heating. Through CET’s Bio-Heat Co-op, customers will only be sold fuel that is ASTM certified.