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Kerosene, also known as paraffin oil, is a common fuel for lamps, heaters, and stoves, with K-1 being the most widely used and sold type. Some gas stations offer kerosene at select locations, but you must bring your own kerosene can. Due to its classification as hazardous, you may need to show ID when purchasing.
Keep in mind that kerosene availability varies among gas stations, even within the same company. To check if a nearby location sells kerosene, you can use the gas station’s website locator with search filters or call the specific station directly.
Where to buy Kerosene near me
The list below is organized from the most cost-effective options, providing a convenient reference for those seeking affordable kerosene sources.
1. Shell
Shell, a prominent energy company, boasts the highest number of gas stations across America. This extensive network increases the likelihood of finding a conveniently located branch in your vicinity. Opting to purchase kerosene from Shell presents a favorable choice, ensuring access to high-quality kerosene and other petroleum products at a reasonable cost.
Nevertheless, it’s important to note that not every Shell station offers kerosene. To enhance your chances of acquiring it, consider visiting branches situated in residential or industrial areas.
2. Speedway
Speedway is a great choice when you’re looking to find a place nearby to purchase kerosene. With 4,000 gas stations spread across the country, Speedway is a widespread option for your needs. Keep in mind that not all Speedway locations offer kerosene, but you can easily identify the ones that do through their store finder tool.
Simply navigate to “Fuel Options” or “Locations Amenities” on their website, select kerosene fuel, and locate the nearest Speedway with this available option. Each gallon of kerosene at Speedway typically costs around $4, providing a convenient and accessible solution for your fuel needs.
3. ARCO
ARCO is a widely popular gas station chain on the west coast of the United States. With around 1,300 branches, it’s a convenient choice for many people in the region. Whether you’re in the southwest or northwest, finding an ARCO station nearby is easy, ensuring you won’t have to go out of your way for fuel.
They offer kerosene at an affordable price, approximately $5 per gallon. To locate the nearest ARCO station with self-service vacuums, use the ARCO locator by entering your city or state along with the zip code. This tool helps you identify nearby stations where you can efficiently fill up on kerosene as a convenient alternative.
4. Sunoco
Sunoco is a cost-effective option for purchasing kerosene, priced at approximately $4 per gallon. With a vast presence of over 5,000 locations across 30 states, finding a nearby Sunoco station is convenient. You can use their store locator to identify gas stations selling kerosene or places equipped with ATMs for easy cash withdrawals to facilitate payment.
To avoid any inconvenience, especially if you’re unsure about kerosene availability at a specific location, it’s advisable to contact Sunoco beforehand. A quick call will allow you to confirm whether the desired station has kerosene in stock before making a trip.
5. Buc-Ee’s
Buc-ee’s is a chain of gas stations that you might want to check out when refueling your car. They have numerous locations across several states, and what’s convenient is that they operate late hours.
To locate the closest Buc-ee’s, you can either use their store locator tool or call ahead. This way, you can save yourself from unnecessary trips and ensure you don’t run out of gas unexpectedly.
6. Citgo
Citgo is a company that not only has its own brand of gas stations but also oversees around 5,000 gas stations across 30 states under the names Mystik and Clarion. Besides gasoline, Citgo also offers affordable kerosene, typically priced at $5 per gallon.
If you’re looking for the nearest Citgo gas station, you can use their store locator, which allows you to find branches within 2 to 100 miles by entering your address or zip code. Additionally, Citgo gas stations provide a service to cash checks.
7. Family Express
If you’re in Indiana and need to refuel your vehicle, consider checking out Family Express. They have more than 70 locations across the state, offering not only gas but also kerosene.
To find a suitable station, you can verify if they have kerosene at the pump and check the current price per gallon. For added savings, download the Family Express App, where you can enjoy discounts of up to $0.05 off per gallon on your fuel purchases.
8. Texaco
Texaco is a convenient choice if you’re looking for a nearby kerosene store. With over 1,300 Texaco stations across the United States, Texas has the highest concentration. To find a Texaco station close to you, simply input your location on their website.
For on-the-go access, you can download the Texaco Station Finder app. It’s worth noting that not all Texaco stations sell kerosene, so it’s advisable to check with your local station in advance. Additionally, Texaco offers the convenience of cash back services while you fuel up.
9. Conoco
Conoco is a chain of gas stations with approximately 2,000 outlets nationwide. Some of these stations provide kerosene at their pumps. You can easily locate a nearby Conoco using the station locator.
Conoco, like several other gas stations with convenience stores, accepts EBT SNAP benefits. Moreover, you can maximize savings on kerosene by using the My Conoco App, which offers discounts of up to 25 cents per gallon.
10. Road Ranger
Road Ranger operates more than 40 travel and convenience centers, mainly situated in Arkansas, Texas, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Indiana, and Wisconsin. These centers offer a wide range of products, including various fuels and kerosene.
If you live in any of these states, the most efficient way to find a Road Ranger gas station selling kerosene is by using their website’s shop locator. Simply input your city, state, or ZIP code, and the locator will identify the nearest Road Ranger site within a 10 to 100-mile radius.
11. Meijer
Meijer is a convenient choice for purchasing kerosene. With over 200 petrol stations and food stores across the Midwest, Meijer offers accessibility. To find a nearby 24-hour gas station selling kerosene at the pump, utilize their store locator for an enhanced shopping experience.
12. Go-Mart
Go-Mart operates approximately 100 petrol stations and convenience stores in Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, and Kentucky. These locations offer a variety of items, including newspapers, snacks, cubed ice, and coffee.
If you need kerosene, you can find it at Go-Mart as well. To locate the nearest Go-Mart, you can visit their website and use the store locator. Alternatively, you can download the Go-Mart app for on-the-go access to find nearby stores and check if they sell kerosene.
13. 76 Gas Station
76 Gas Station is a widely recognized chain in the United States with 1,800 branches across the nation. It’s a notable option when searching for “where to buy kerosene near me.”
The gas station provides various fuel choices and accepts multiple payment methods. Additionally, they offer a special card that you can use at any of their branches, adding convenience for customers.
14. Lukoil
Lukoil operates 2,000 locations throughout America where you can reliably purchase kerosene. However, availability is not guaranteed at all times, so it’s advisable to check in advance if they currently have kerosene in stock before making a purchase.
15. Terrible’s
Terrible’s operates predominantly in the southwestern region of the United States, specifically in Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah.
They manage over 100 gas stations and convenience stores, offering customers a range of products including food, motorcycle oil, and kerosene. To find a convenient location near you, it’s recommended to check their webpage for accurate and up-to-date information on their various sites.
16. Pilot Flying J
Pilot Flying J operates over 750 travel centers across more than 40 states. To easily find a nearby location, you can use their website, which provides a detailed list of all their centers.
Given the extensive list, you have the option to streamline your search by using filters based on restaurant availability or specific states/provinces. Additionally, their mobile app offers a convenient way to locate stations while on the move, plan your route, and even save up to 3 cents per gallon on fuel.
It’s worth noting that while not all Pilot Flying J stations may sell kerosene, you can inquire about this by calling ahead to ensure they meet your specific needs.
17. Weigel’s
Weigel’s is a chain of convenience stores with approximately 70 locations in eastern Tennessee. To locate the nearest Weigel’s in your area, you can use their online location finder and enter your zip code.
Check if they have a store nearby, inquire about the availability of kerosene at the pump, and find out the current cost per gallon. This information will help you conveniently locate the nearest Weigel’s and gather details about their kerosene offerings.
18. Walmart
Walmart, the world’s largest retail store, offers more than just groceries, electronics, stamps, and apparel. Aside from their gas and fuel stations, you can also conveniently find kerosene in Walmart’s hardware section.
While the pricing for kerosene at Walmart may be slightly higher compared to other locations, the convenience and accessibility make it a reliable choice, especially in urgent situations when you need fuel.
19. Home Depot
Home Depot, a home improvement retailer with 2,312 locations nationwide, is an unexpected yet reliable option for purchasing kerosene. Despite being known for its vast array of home renovation items, Home Depot also provides kerosene.
To locate the nearest Home Depot offering kerosene, simply visit their website and use the built-in location finder tool.
20. Fred Meyer
Fred Meyer is a prominent superstore widely recognized across the country. It is known for offering a variety of products, including groceries and electronics. In addition to everyday items, Fred Meyer is a go-to destination for purchasing kerosene, commonly used for lanterns or heating equipment.
If you’re looking for a place to buy kerosene nearby, Fred Meyer might pop up in your search results. However, it’s advisable to confirm its availability by visiting the store or checking their official website before making any assumptions.
Best alternatives of Kerosene?
If you’re looking for alternatives to kerosene, a popular choice is propane. It’s a relatively inexpensive and readily available clean-burning fuel used for various purposes like lighting lamps, cooking, and heating homes. However, it’s crucial to handle propane with care due to its high flammability. Bulk quantities are sold at stores like Kroger, Walmart, Sam’s Club, and other locations.
Another option is liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), with costs varying by region. LPG is available in different types, so it’s important to determine the appropriate type before purchasing. Meijer, Sam’s Club, and other retailers typically stock LPG.
Gasoline and diesel are additional alternatives found at gas stations and convenience stores. While these fuels are easily accessible, it’s essential to consider safety precautions and compatibility with your specific needs when opting for substitutes to kerosene.
Kerosene lamp alternatives
If you have a kerosene lamp and need an alternative fuel, there are a few options available. One straightforward choice is generic lamp oil, which, although more expensive than kerosene, has the advantage of producing fewer odors and burning cleaner.
In a pinch, you can also use citronella oil in wick lamps, but it’s recommended for outdoor use only due to the significant smoke and soot it generates.
For a more effective substitute, synthetic kerosene is an excellent option. While typically sold as aviation fuel, some brands offer it specifically for lamps. Synthetic kerosene stands out for its minimal odor compared to traditional petroleum-based kerosene.
What kind of Kerosene is sold at gas stations?
Gas stations typically sell K-1 or pump kerosene, commonly used for heating and lamps. Additionally, certain stores like Walmart offer 1-K branded kerosene, available in containers, albeit at a higher price of $10.87 per gallon (3.8 liters).
Is K1 the same as Kerosene?
K1 and kerosene refer to the same type of fuel, but K1, specifically 1-K kerosene, is a highly refined and pure form with significantly lower sulfur content compared to regular kerosene. The lower sulfur content makes K1 produce cleaner flames.
Although more expensive than regular kerosene, K1 is commonly used in applications like glass lamps, lantern lamps, and space heaters.
How long does Kerosene stay good for?
The lifespan of kerosene is determined by how it’s stored. When kept in its original packaging or a proper container, kerosene remains usable for up to 5 years. However, if stored improperly, such as in a container that allows the entry of moisture, kerosene can accumulate water through condensation over time.
If mold and bacteria develop in the storage container, they can lead to the formation of sludge, causing the breakdown of kerosene. Therefore, to ensure its longevity, it’s essential to store kerosene in suitable conditions to prevent water accumulation and the growth of harmful microorganisms.
What is the difference between Kerosene and Diesel?
Kerosene and diesel are two heating oils derived from the refining of crude oil. Although they undergo similar production processes, they serve different purposes.
Kerosene is primarily utilized for generating heat and light, commonly employed in kerosene lamps, as fuel for jet engines, and for cooking in many developing nations.
On the other hand, diesel functions as a fuel for various vehicles including boats, trains, trucks, and U.S. school buses. Additionally, diesel can be used to generate electricity through diesel-powered generators. The key distinction lies in their intended applications, with kerosene favored for heating and lighting, while diesel is a primary fuel for transportation and power generation.
The bottom line
If you’re looking to buy kerosene, the most efficient way is to check the gas station’s website or give them a call before heading there. Gas stations typically sell kerosene, and this method helps you save time and effort.
While kerosene is also available in auto repair shops, home improvement stores, and the hardware sections of larger retailers like Walmart, purchasing it from nearby gas stations is often more cost-effective, allowing you to cut expenses and save money.