Can I use diesel fuel in my oil furnace?

According to Enviroharvest Inc., home heating oil and standard diesel fuel are essentially identical, so diesel fuel runs in standard oil furnaces. However, diesel fuel purchased at gas stations may have additives that can impact performance.

Diesel fuel sold for vehicles is taxed in the United States to support road construction and maintenance, so it is generally more expensive than heating oil. Heating oil is often dyed to prevent truck drivers from taking advantage of its lower cost and skirting laws. However, those who depend on oil delivery who run out of fuel oil may prefer to spend a bit more for diesel fuel instead of suffering through a cold night.