How Long Does A Kerosene Heater Wick Last? Quick Answer

We have replacement wicks and parts for most brands of kerosene heaters. WICK TIP #1 DRY BURN

FOR LONG SERVICE LIFE AND PROPER HEATING EFFECT

*These instructions apply to fiberglass wicks. If your heater uses only a cotton wick, this procedure should not be followed. Most wicks have a fiberglass top and a cotton bottom. “”Dry burning”” simply means to let the heater run out of kerosene and extinguish yourself. If you can crank the wick to the maximum just before it goes out, better wick cleaning will occur. A few drops of our “Scented Wick Cleaner” directly on the wick before burning dry will also help to thoroughly clean the wick. If the wick is really bad, let the heater cool, light the wick, and burn the wick dry a second time. This whole procedure can get a little smelly. Best outdoors, in a garage or on a porch. Our kerosene heater tune-up kit has everything you need to properly care for your heater and wick. If burning for a long time or using red-colored kerosene*, black and hard deposits may gradually accumulate on the wick, and the following symptoms may appear. 1. Lighting the wick becomes difficult.

2. The up and down movement of the wick becomes difficult.

3. For radiant heaters: The radiation screen in the glass-enclosed heating chamber does not glow red hot.

4. For convection heaters: The flame tips cannot reach the top of the heating chamber.

5. The time between ignition and normal burning is too long.

6. Strong fumes or odors develop.

*If you are using red kerosene you may need to dry burn your wick more often than if you were using clear kerosene. MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY OF HEAT USE This can be achieved by dry burning the wick as tar and carbon are deposited.

The first dry burn should occur within a week of first using the heater, or after about 3 tankfuls of fuel.

This is very effective and helps condition the fiberglass wick for longer life, less odor and maximum heat output. With normal use, most people dry-burn their wick about once a week. Contaminated kerosene, old kerosene and colored kerosene can lead to more frequent dry burning or even destruction of the wick. For more detailed instructions specific to your heater, refer to your heater owner’s manual. If you need a new wick for your heater…Click here Hey, what about the red dye in my kerosene? Click here. Click here to see more frequently asked questions. Click here to view our new service and troubleshooting guide

If you use a kerosene heater in your home or workplace, you should take precautions against a number of serious hazards.

These dangers include:

fire or explosion. A fire can be caused by operating the heater too close to furniture, curtains, or other flammable objects, by knocking over a burning heater, or by accidentally igniting fuel while filling the tank. Explosions can be caused by using the wrong fuel or by operating the heater in an area where flammable vapors are present.

burns. Burns can be caused by direct contact with a heater or by igniting combustible clothing. Children in particular should be kept away from heaters that are in operation. Pets could also be injured.

Suffocation. Petroleum heaters consume oxygen when they burn. If they are operated in a small room or in an insufficiently ventilated area, the oxygen in the air could be reduced to dangerous levels. A reduced oxygen supply can lead to incomplete combustion of the fuel and the formation of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can be fatal without warning in sufficient concentrations or if inhaled for prolonged periods.

indoor air pollution. In addition to carbon monoxide, kerosene heaters can emit pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. Inhaling these substances can pose a risk, especially to people such as pregnant women, people with asthma, people with cardiovascular diseases, the elderly and young children.

These hazards can be minimized or avoided by carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions for the use of kerosene heaters and by taking other sensible safety precautions.

You should also be aware that kerosene heaters are still illegal in some areas. Check with your local fire department or firefighter for any usage restrictions in your area before purchasing.

Choice of model

There are two types of portable kerosene heaters – convective and radiant.

The convection heater is usually circular in shape. Its fuel tank is located under the wick and combustion chamber. The wick absorbs fuel and delivers it to the combustion chamber.

Convection heaters circulate warm air up and out in all directions. They are designed for large areas or even multiple rooms, but never for a small, enclosed area like a bedroom. Some owners report that one or two of these units can adequately heat an entire home if the temperature stays above freezing.

Convection heaters must be moved to refuel as they do not have a removable fuel tank. As a rule, refueling is carried out with a siphon pump. Make sure a convection heater has a fuel gauge.

Radiant heaters – mostly in a rectangular shape – are designed for smaller areas. They also have a wick and a combustion chamber and also have a reflector that directs the heat towards people or objects. Some heaters have electric fans to increase the flow of warm air.

Many – but not all – Radiant models have a removable fuel tank, meaning the heater can stay in place. Only the fuel tank has to be carried to where the fuel is stored.

A radiant heater without a removable fuel tank must be moved for each refueling – just like a convective model.

Make sure your heater has a recognized seal of approval such as the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) label. The UL label means that the heater has performed well under test conditions and meets acceptable fire safety standards.

Also make sure your heater has a battery powered lighting device – it eliminates the need for matches.

Heaters should have a safety shut-off device that will extinguish the flame if the appliance is jarred or tipped over.

dealing with dangers

A well-designed kerosene heater does not emit smoke or a strong odor during normal operation. But you might notice a faint smell of kerosene when you enter the house.

There is also a strong odor from kerosene heaters for a few minutes when turned on or off and when they run out of fuel. So it’s a good idea to check the fuel gauge regularly.

But the real danger is that misusing kerosene heaters could replace room oxygen with carbon monoxide and lead to death by asphyxiation.

Therefore, it is important that other rooms are adequately ventilated and that a source of fresh outside air such as a window or door is open at least an inch when using a kerosene heater.

The emission of other important pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide is an additional reason why you need adequate ventilation and fresh outside air.

Petroleum heaters can be particularly dangerous in bedrooms, especially when large room heating appliances are used in small spaces.

“You have to keep an eye on a kerosene heater, and you can’t do that when you’re asleep,” warns a fire safety engineer.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission, a federal agency, has recommended strengthening manufacturers’ voluntary safety standards and further educating the public about the proper use of kerosene heaters.

Use it safely

When purchasing a portable kerosene heater, you must allocate time to purchasing fuel, fueling the heater, and taking care of maintenance.

You will need to check the wick every one to two weeks during the heating season. If it gets dirty, clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

It’s also important to wipe up spilled kerosene immediately – there is a risk of fire – and to remove dust and dirt regularly.

Petroleum heaters require 1K kerosene. When colored or cloudy kerosene is burned, it emits an odor, smokes and causes increased indoor pollution levels because the fuel’s higher sulfur content greatly increases sulfur dioxide emissions. And kerosene other than 1K quality can clog the wick. Never use a substitute such as gasoline or camp stove fuel. In a kerosene heater, such fuels could cause a fire or explode.

To avoid the risk of fire even during normal operation, place kerosene heaters several feet away from all furniture, curtains, papers, clothing, bedding, and other combustible materials.

Remember that kerosene heaters have a constant open flame and should not be used in a room containing flammable solvents, aerosol sprays, paint, gasoline, kerosene containers or any type of oil.

Parents of babies, toddlers and young children, as well as pet owners, should be aware that touching any part of a running kerosene heater over an open flame can cause severe burns.

For this reason, safety cages designed to keep small children and pets at a distance have become popular.

Never attempt to move a burning kerosene heater. A carrying handle could also cause burns. Extinguish the flame and allow the heater to cool before moving.

And never refuel a kerosene heater in living quarters or when the heater is still hot. Wait for it to cool down.

Firefighters are urging you to turn off kerosene heaters before you go to sleep. It is better to use your central heating while the family is sleeping.

Remember, you can reduce the dangers of fire, severe burns, pollution, and asphyxiation from kerosene heaters by:

Follow safety tips. Maintaining a constant source of fresh air. Keep doors to other rooms open.

It’s also important to have a smoke detector and fire extinguisher nearby.

handling of fuel

With a portable kerosene heater, you often have to drive to a kerosene dealer unless you are on a delivery route.

A large convection heater operating 15 hours a day uses up to 14 gallons of fuel per week — an amount that would require three 5-gallon kerosene canisters. Make sure the containers are clearly labeled “kerosene”.

Mixing gasoline and kerosene – or their containers – is dangerous. Never use a gasoline can as a substitute for a kerosene canister.

Once you get the containers back home, you’ll need a place to store the kerosene canisters and fuel the heater.

In both cases, a garage is preferable to the house. If there is no garage, a basement away from the central heating or an outdoor storage shed are possible.

Resist the temptation to put on a hot kerosene heater in a warm house – it’s like playing with dynamite! And never smoke while refueling.

Follow the siphon pump’s instructions and only fill the tank about 90 percent full. Cold kerosene in a heater tank expands as it warms to room temperature and could overflow if space is limited.

Place the heater back where you want it to turn on. Slightly open at least one window and ignite the heater according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Summer Fall Maintenance

Here’s what to do before storing a portable kerosene heater for the summer:

Remove and discard all fuel from the tank. Kerosene can chemically change and spoil over the summer.

Clean the wick when dirty. When worn out, replace it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Clean heater and discard weak batteries. Store good batteries in a dry place and tape the ends.

Place the unit and accessories in a dust and moisture free container – possibly the box that the heater came in.

How to proceed if you take your heater out of storage in the fall:

Insert the batteries and check the shut-off mechanism and wick for proper operation.

Fill the tank with fresh kerosene. Never use kerosene from a previous heating season – it could be spoiled.

Go through the owner’s manual to ensure you remember all operating and safety features.

What is kerosene?

Kerosene is a clear combustible fuel resulting from the fractional distillation of petroleum. Kerosene is widely used in industry and households. It can be found in jet engines, lamps, portable stoves, space heaters and is used for the fire rotating display called poi.

Kerosene is less flammable than gasoline, with a burn point between 100 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit. It is regulated differently and is stored in blue containers instead of red petrol containers or yellow diesel containers.

When kerosene was invented, it started many new industries and improved everyday American life. Kerosene provided better and safer lighting and cheaper home heating. Kerosene can still be used today to reduce our energy footprint and reduce home heating. Click here for a selection of home kerosene heaters.

Where can I buy kerosene?

1K kerosene is available at many gas stations, car dealerships, and hardware stores. The price for 1 gallon of 1K kerosene is around $10.00 in September 2015.

Only buy kerosene from dealers who offer government-approved 1-K grade kerosene. This is the only way to ensure safe use of the kerosene. Any kerosene labeled other than 1-K is a potential hazard and health hazard.

When purchasing kerosene at a pump, be sure to use a pump designed for kerosene only and avoid gasoline contamination. Also, store kerosene in a container specifically designed for kerosene, not in gasoline or other containers.

How should kerosene be stored?

Store kerosene only in new, clean, and sealed containers that are clearly labeled for kerosene storage. These are certified blue plastic containers. Improper containers such as metal cans, used kegs, plastic jugs, or gasoline containers will contaminate kerosene. This will damage your wick and heater and possibly harm you. The best way to increase longevity is to keep your container sealed at all times.

How long can I store kerosene?

One to three months is our safe recommendation for fuel storage. Do not store kerosene in the kerosene heater from season to season, especially in summer. Stale fuel decomposes and absorbs water, which encourages the growth of bacteria and mold. Burning old fuel will damage your heater and result in reduced performance. That can quickly become dangerous. It is best to buy high-quality kerosene in small quantities and store it in certified containers.

Kerosene can last longer depending on how well it is stored. The quickest way to break down kerosene is in an open container, which allows for oxidation and water pollution. A reader of the September 2006 issue of Countryside and Small Stock Journal testifies to the use of a 10 year old reserve of K-1 kerosene stored in sealed five gallon containers with no additives. The reader noted that K-1 was still 90% clear, “works well and hasn’t hardened the wicks.” We advise against using 10 year old kerosene, but sealed storage in certified containers will give you the best results for the extra mile.

Can I use red kerosene?

Any kerosene advertised as 1K kerosene can be used in your heater, but use red dyes with caution. We recommend using clear 1K kerosene as it makes it easier to see possible contamination and is better for your kerosene heater wick.

Red dye kerosene (even if 1-K) contributes to more carbon deposits on the wick and more soot when the heater is lit and extinguished. Red kerosene comes from the federal government, which requires that kerosene not intended for street use (and subsequently untaxed) be dyed red. 1K kerosene for road use is the same clear kerosene used for kerosene heaters and our recommended buy.

How do you test the quality of kerosene?

Kerosene quality is best assessed by visual inspection. Siphon a small amount of kerosene from the bottom of the canister where most of the water and particulate contamination resides. Place the sample in a small clear jar and let it sit for at least an hour. Check to see if there is anything floating in the fuel, such as B. particles or bubbles. Bubbles are a sign of water pollution. The fuel should be crystal clear with no separation. Hazy or yellow colored fabrics are contaminated and should not be used. Red fuel contamination is harder to spot, but like Kool Aid, it should be translucent, not cloudy, opaque, or dusty. Click here for a siphon pump.

The final test is to burn the kerosene heater. The flame should be bright and even. Any kerosene odor should become very faint after the heater has reached optimal combustion (45-60 minutes). Kerosene has a unique odor (not like diesel or gasoline). If in doubt, it’s best to get fresh fuel to protect your product and yourself.

Properties of high-quality kerosene:

Crystal clear like tap water or like Kool Aid when colored red

No visible dirt, debris, dust or contaminants

Properly stored in an approved airtight blue container

Stored cool and dark

Recently purchased (within 1-3 months)

Characteristics of poor quality kerosene:

Below are some of the most common helpful questions and answers about our indoor kerosene heaters. See your owner’s manual for more information.

Was this information helpful? YES | NO (I need more information)

What kind of kerosene should I use?

The only fuel approved for indoor kerosene heaters is K-1 kerosene. K-1 kerosene is most commonly available at local convenience stores and gas stations. Only buy kerosene that is rated K-1. Lower quality fuels produce odors and can cause other problems. If you are unsure who sells K-1 kerosene in your area, contact your local fuel retailer. K-1 kerosene is also available in packet form at many hardware and hardware stores. Packaged kerosene has a longer shelf life than kerosene drawn from a pump, making it a good choice for those who only want to have a heater on hand in case of an emergency. However, if you are using your kerosene heater as an additional heat source, you will see the biggest savings by purchasing your K-1 kerosene at a local supermarket or gas station. The use of synthetic fuel is not recommended.

Can red kerosene be used?

The federal government requires kerosene to be dyed red if it is not intended for road use and is therefore subject to a 24.9¢ tax. As long as it’s advertised as K-1 kerosene, it can be used in your heater. We recommend using K-1 clear kerosene where available, as contaminants in clear kerosene are much easier to see.

How should K-1 kerosene be stored?

Store K-1 kerosene only in a new, clean, and sealed container that is clearly labeled for kerosene. Containers such as used kegs, used milk containers, used plastic jugs, and jerry cans contaminate kerosene and can damage the wick or cause other problems.

It is best to store your K-1 Kerosene in an approved container in a cool, dark, dry place away from living quarters. After filling your heater, be sure to put the cap back on your container securely to protect your K-1 kerosene from contamination.

How long can I store K-1 kerosene?

One to six months is the longest we recommend storing K-1 kerosene. K-1 kerosene should not be stored from one season to the next, even in the heater tank. If left over the summer, the kerosene could break down and absorb water. There are bacteria and mold that live in kerosene and feed on fossil fuels. As this process accelerates in the warm summer months, sludge forms in the kerosene. If this kerosene is used in the following season, it may clog the wick and cause odor, poor burning and wick hardening. It is best to buy kerosene in small quantities so that you can be sure that you have fuel that is as fresh as possible. Find a local supermarket or gas station that you can trust to have good kerosene and stick with it.

How can I tell if my K-1 kerosene is good?

The best way to tell if you have good fuel is to siphon a small amount of kerosene from the bottom of your fuel tank into a small clear jar. It is important to pump from the bottom because if water is present it will be there as it has a higher specific gravity than kerosene. Let the sample sit for at least an hour and see if anything floats in the fuel. Bubbles on the bottom aren’t good – they’re water bubbles, not air. Airborne particles should not be visible. If the kerosene is clear, it should be crystal clear without separation. Anything cloudy or yellowed is contaminated and should not be used. It’s harder to see contaminants in red kerosene, but even red-colored kerosene should be translucent – much like Kool-Aid, not cloudy or opaque. The fuel should also smell like kerosene and not have a diesel or gasoline odor. If you have doubts about the quality of your kerosene – make fresh. The final test is to burn the heater; The flame should be bright and even. Any kerosene odor should become very faint after the heater has reached optimum combustion (typically 45-60 minutes).

What Causes Bad Smell?

Bad smell after burning the heater is most often caused by low-quality kerosene. If the kerosene you are using has a high sulfur content, or if it is low-grade kerosene, it cannot be completely burned at the temperatures reached in a portable kerosene heater. These unburned hydrocarbons collect on the wick and harden, resulting in minor burning and odor problems. Also, be very careful when refueling your heater to avoid spilling kerosene on the heater. Kerosene spilled on the heater or on the drip pan can cause a strong kerosene odor when the heater gets hot. In addition, if the heater is operated at a temperature setting that is too low, or with a wick installed too low, incomplete combustion of the kerosene can cause odor nuisance. A heater should always be operated at a high level, just turned down far enough so that it does not become sooty. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct wick height for your model.

Why isn’t my heater on?

If you’re having trouble keeping the heater burning, there are several things to check. Is this the first use of the heater? If this is the case, the problem may be caused by not soaking the wick long enough before lighting it. It is the kerosene vapors that burn over the top of the wick and so it is very important to wait at least 60 minutes with the wick in the down position in a full tank of kerosene to ensure the wick is fully saturated support combustion.

If you light the heater too quickly, it may ignite, but air bubbles may develop in the wick’s capillaries and then it may not hold enough kerosene “wicking” on the surface to keep your heater burning properly. If a problem occurs after the first kerosene tank has been burned, the problem may be fuel related. Poor quality kerosene or contaminated with water will clog the wick fibers and impede fuel flow to the wick surface. This starves the flame of fuel. The best solution is to replace the wick and kerosene in your heater and start over.

Why is my heater smoking?

First, make sure the heater is filled with K-1 kerosene. Other fuels such as petrol, heating oil, etc. do not burn hot, causing the heater to burn out uncontrollably. NEVER USE GASOLINE or any other fuel labeled as flammable. If you have questions about the fuel in your heater, it’s best to drain it, replace the wick, and start with fresh K-1 kerosene. If you’re sure of your kerosene and your heater is giving off sooty black smoke, it’s a sign that the fuel-air mixture isn’t right. Make sure your heater is off the train. Too much air can create a very high flame condition. Avoid placing the heater in drafty areas or under a ceiling fan. Make sure the burner chimney is seated correctly. If the burner chimney is not properly seated after lighting, you may get a very high flame on one side. If there is a high orange flame all around, try rolling the wick adjustment knob down within the adjustment range – the wick may just be raised too high. If these things don’t fix the problem, wait for the heater to cool and check the burner cylinder. If any holes are clogged with soot, it must be cleaned, or if dented or dented, it must be replaced. After checking the fuel and burner, you should check that the wick is installed at the correct height. The exact wick height can be found in the user manual. If the wick is installed correctly and there is no other obvious defect, it is best to take the heater to a service center to determine the cause. Our Find a Retailer tool can be used to find a service center.

Why doesn’t my heater light up?

Is this the first time the heater is lit? If this is the case, you need to make sure the heater is filled with good quality K-1 kerosene and that the wick has been soaked in the lowered position in a full kerosene tank for 60 minutes. This ensures that the wick is fully saturated with kerosene. Then bring the wick to the “high” position.

When you press the ignitor button you should see the igniter move into position to ignite the kerosene vapor over the top of the wick surface. The igniter should glow bright orange. The igniter should come right up to the top of the wick but not touch the wick. When the igniter is placed in the side of the wick, it does not ignite – only the kerosene vapors just above the surface of the wick ignite. You may need to lower the wick adjustment mechanism a bit to ensure the igniter makes proper contact. If the igniter does not glow, check the batteries. They may need to be replaced or the igniter filament may be broken. If the batteries need to be replaced, use only regular-duty non-alkaline replacement batteries. Alkaline batteries give too strong an initial jolt and can destroy the igniter.

Why doesn’t my igniter light up?

If your igniter doesn’t glow, the first obvious reasons are dead batteries. Batteries should only be replaced with non-alkaline regular batteries. Alkaline batteries can have too strong an initial jolt and often burn out the igniter. The strongest is not the best in this application. If you have fresh non-alkaline batteries and they still don’t glow, the igniter probably needs to be replaced. To prevent the igniter from burning out, do not allow the igniter to contact the side of the wick or remain in the flame after lighting.

Why doesn’t my heating switch off?

If you press the shut off button and the wick doesn’t fall, it is most likely due to tar and carbon buildup. If the heater has been burned too low or contaminated kerosene has been used, a sticky tar will form on the wick and it will harden. As the wick becomes harder and thicker, it becomes more difficult to raise and lower the wick until it no longer slides between the wick adjuster and the primary air tube. Severe water contamination in the kerosene can also cause the cotton fibers in the wick to swell and not always be able to move freely. The wick should be replaced.

How often should I change my wick?

The American Lung Association, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (in a booklet titled “What You Should Know about Combustion Appliances and Indoor Air Pollution”) recommends that you check and replace the wick before each heating season. You may need to change the wick more frequently if you are using inferior kerosene, or if you are burning your heater on a heat setting that is too low, or if your kerosene becomes contaminated.

If you need more help, watch our helpful wick installation video here.

These documents are for reference purposes and are not intended to replace your owner’s manual. It is important to read your owner’s manual fully which is designed to provide you with instructions on how to properly assemble the heater, maintain the heater, store the heater and most importantly how to operate the heater in a safe and efficient manner. Visit our Owner’s Manual section to find a copy of your heater’s owner’s manual.

Was this information helpful? YES | NO (I need more information)

David E. Baker

Institute of Agricultural Engineering

Portable kerosene heaters can be a valuable temporary heat source for homeowners to use during winter power outages to keep pipes from freezing and to heat small areas for family comfort until power is restored. The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that there are as many as 9 million kerosene heaters in use in consumers’ homes. Of these, 5.5 million are unvented heaters. There are a number of potential safety and health hazards associated with these heaters if not properly operated, installed, maintained or stored. These risks include fire, burns, asphyxiation, and exposure to combustion byproducts such as carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide.

According to a recent study by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), supplemental heaters, such as B. a kerosene heater, the main cause of house fires in the months of December, January and February. The study found that space heaters were responsible for more than two in five home heater fires, as well as the vast majority of deaths (81%) and injuries (80%).

Most portable kerosene heaters are of a similar design. These include a wick to allow kerosene to be drawn from the tank into the combustion area, a device to ignite the wick, an automatic tipping device to extinguish the wick if the device is kicked or turned over, and a fuel tank.

Manufacturers are hailing the devices as the “new generation” of portable kerosene heaters because they come equipped with battery-powered ignition devices, automatic extinguishing devices, fuel gauges, metal protective grilles, level gauges, carrying handles, pull-out fuel cans, and decorative surfaces, among other features. Many also have a wide base to prevent easy tipping.

However, many firefighters, government agencies and safety specialists believe that the heaters are not without their hazards and believe that kerosene heaters pose hazards not found in other heating systems. The main hazard is fire, which can result from using gasoline instead of kerosene in the heater. Carelessness when refueling and improper storage of flammable liquids are also dangerous. Many health officials are also concerned about the health hazards from the pollutants that unvented kerosene heating brings into the building.

knowledge of the operator

Before purchasing or using a kerosene heater, consumers must learn the safety and maintenance procedures necessary for the safe operation of a kerosene heater.

Before purchasing a heater, make sure that local building and fire codes permit its use in residential buildings. Check with your insurance carrier to see what impact using these heaters may have on your homeowner’s policy.

To ensure the safe operation of the heater, every adult family member must become an informed consumer and operator.

Adults should be aware of this

equipment maintenance

safety aspects

work instructions

emergency measures

Fuel storage requirements

Never let children operate the device

The best source of information about the device should be the user manual. Read, observe, and follow the procedures and safety notices in the manual before attempting to operate, service, or maintain the equipment.

Safety guidelines for kerosene heaters

Follow these recommendations when purchasing and using a portable kerosene heater.

Only use listed heaters

Only heaters tested and listed to Underwriters’ Laboratories (UL) Standard 647 should be purchased and used. This listing should appear on the heater nameplate.

Use the right fuel

The National Kerosene Heater Association, American Petroleum Institute, Consumer Product Safety Commission, and others recommend only 1K kerosene be used in these heaters. According to the American Society of Testing and Materials Standard D-3699, “Standard Specifications for Kerosene,” there are two types of kerosene fuels, 1-K and 2-K. The main difference is the sulfur content. Type 1-K contains 0.04% by weight sulfur and Type 2-K contains 0.30% by weight sulfur. The higher sulfur content of 2K fuel tends to be detrimental to proper fuel wicking and increases sulfur dioxide emissions. The use of 2K kerosene requires frequent wick cleaning and maintenance which, if not done properly, can create a risk of fire or explosion.

It is not possible to distinguish between 1-component and 2-component kerosene fuels by visual inspection. The terms “water clear” or “clear white” are often used to describe the type of kerosene that can be used in unvented heating. Although water white or clear white kerosene can be 1-K in most cases, color should not be used as the sole indicator. The type of crude oil from which the kerosene is refined, temperature, aging and pollution can all cause kerosene to yellow and darken. So unless the retailer specifically markets the kerosene as 1K fuel, you should assume that the product is not 1K kerosene. Find a dealer who can certify that you are buying Class 1-K kerosene.

Also, never use diesel, jet-A fuel, #1 heating oil, #2 heating oil, or gasoline in your heater. Use of any of these fuels can result in a fire or explosion resulting in death or injury.

Always store kerosene in a container intended for kerosene, not in a gasoline can or a container that has contained gasoline. This prevents accidentally using contaminated or wrong fuel. Fuel tank color coding regulations state that blue is the specified color for kerosene tanks, red for gasoline, yellow for diesel and green for oils.

Correct clearances from combustible material

The heater should be kept a minimum distance of 36 inches from all combustible materials such as curtains or furniture, unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer. If less than 36 inches is acceptable, the manufacturer will indicate this on the nameplate. Do not use flammable solvents, aerosol sprays, or paints near the heater. Do not operate the heater in the same room where other flammable liquids such as gasoline are stored. Do not operate in dusty environments. The surface temperature of some units can exceed 500 degrees Fahrenheit, which can ignite flammable liquids, combustible liquids, combustible vapors, or grain dusts and result in a fire or explosion.

Provide the required maintenance and upkeep

Consult your owner’s manual for instructions or recommended service and maintenance to ensure proper heater operation. Required maintenance should include periodic cleaning of the unit, trimming the wick, removing soot and carbon, checking for fuel leaks, and other maintenance procedures recommended by the manufacturer. If you suspect the heater is not working properly, turn it off immediately and allow it to cool. Then perform the necessary maintenance or take it to a qualified service center for repair.

Do not take any risks

An improperly functioning heater can result in a fire or produce an excessive amount of combustion byproducts: soot, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide.

Ensure adequate ventilation

Adequate ventilation is required for safe operation of the kerosene heater. Burning kerosene uses oxygen and produces carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and other gases. Ventilation must be provided to replace oxygen and remove gases to prevent asphyxiation or breathing problems. Manufacturer’s recommendations should be followed to provide sufficient oxygen for combustion; In many cases, this may require opening a window or door leading to another room. If no specifications are listed in the manufacturer’s literature, a rule of thumb is to provide 1 square inch of window opening for every 1,000 Btus of heater output. For example, a 10,000 Btu heater may need to open a 10 square inch exterior window to provide the necessary airflow. Extra ventilation may be required in an energy efficient home.

Use only as additional heating

The heater should never be used as the sole source of heat except in an emergency situation. Do not operate it while sleeping, as heater malfunction may cause suffocation. Don’t leave a heater unattended.

Keep the heater out of the flow of traffic

Place it in places where there is little chance of someone coming across it. UL Standard 647 requires that the burner in the inverted position “must not allow the flame to continue burning for more than 30 seconds”. The standard also requires “that kerosene escaping from the storage tank or the burner as a result of the heater tipping over must not be ignited”. Although devices must pass a rigorous test before they are “listed” by nationally recognized testing organizations such as UL, devices could fail or malfunction. So make sure that the heater does not tip over.

Allow the heater to cool before refueling

Allow the heater to cool down for at least 15 minutes before refueling. The surface temperature of many heaters can reach 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Kerosene has a flash point (lowest temperature at which a liquid gives off enough vapor to form an ignitable mixture) of approximately 110 degrees Fahrenheit and an ignition temperature of 410 degrees Fahrenheit. If kerosene is spilled on a hot heater, it can ignite and cause a fire.

Fill up the heater and store kerosene outdoors

Always refuel the cool heater outdoors in a well-ventilated area away from other sources of ignition. Refueling should also be done in an area where small spills can be cleaned up quickly. Fuel should be stored outdoors in an approved blue safety can. “Kerosene” should be labeled in a conspicuous place on the safety canister. Never store kerosene in a red container that could easily be mistaken for a gasoline storage container.

Never overfill the heater

When refueling the heater, leave enough space for fuel expansion. Follow the manufacturer’s refueling instructions in the owner’s manual or on the identification plate.

Do not allow children to operate or refuel the heater

Only an adult familiar with the heater’s operating and fueling procedures should operate or fuel it.

prevent burns

Warn children about the dangers of the hot surface temperature of the portable kerosene heater. Keep in mind that the surface temperature of some heaters can reach up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Develop a pre-fire plan

Every family should take the time to develop and practice a fire safety plan. In your plan:

Install and maintain a smoke detection system. The NFPA recommends installing at least one smoke alarm on every floor of the home—including basements—as well as in each bedroom and outside of each sleeping area. Larger homes may need additional detectors. It is best to use a networked smoke detection system in accordance with the National Fire Protection Association Standard #74, the standard for domestic fire alarm devices.

Install and maintain a fire extinguisher. Install an approved, multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher in a visible and easily accessible location.

Develop an evacuation plan. An evacuation plan should be developed and practiced by all occupants to ensure safe escape from the building in the event of a fire. Remember that the plan is only good if everyone knows about it and has practiced it to make sure it works.

Summer and autumn care

Before storing away for the summer:

Remove all fuel from the tank and dispose of at an approved hazardous waste disposal site or during a community or DNR hazardous waste disposal day or event.

Clean the wick if it is dirty, replace it if it is worn according to the manufacturer’s recommendations,

Clean the device and dispose of the batteries.

Place the device and accessories in a dust and moisture free container.

When you take the heater out of storage and before you use it:

Insert fresh batteries.

Fill the tank with fresh fuel. Never use kerosene from the previous season.

Read the user manual.

Inspect all guards and components for damage and repair or replace.

references

We’ve experienced the ups and downs of burning diesel in a kerosene heater so you don’t have to. With that, let’s look at some of the things you should be aware of.

While you can use diesel as a backup fuel if you run out of kerosene, there are a few extra steps you need to take to ensure you don’t damage your heater.

You can actually use off-road diesel in your kerosene heaters. In fact, diesel burns very well in your regular kerosene heater, but may come with the risk of shortening the life of the wick. However, as a temporary replacement, diesel works fine.

‍Have you ever run out of kerosene and wondered if you can use off-road diesel in a kerosene heater?

‍ Burning diesel in a kerosene heater

There can be a number of ways to burn diesel instead of kerosene. It could be that you’re running out of kerosene and don’t have the funds to buy more, or even if you’re just trying to cut fuel costs by opting for cheaper diesel.

In any case, it is safe to use diesel instead of kerosene in your heater as diesel and kerosene are very similar distillates with a flash point that is in the same temperature range. The only difference is that diesel burns slightly cooler than kerosene, which can cause carbon to build up in the wick much faster than kerosene.

However, this does not endanger your security. So if you have no other option, diesel is suitable for burning in a kerosene heater.

What kind of diesel can you use as a substitute for kerosene?

There are two main grades for diesel depending on its cetane content. This indicates how easy it is to burn and how fast it burns as well.

#1 Diesel

This type of diesel is very similar in composition to kerosene. Because paraffin wax has been removed it burns clearer than Diesel #2 and is more viscous so there are fewer gel problems in colder weather.

#2 Diesel

Diesel #2 is less refined and not as similar to kerosene as diesel #1. It doesn’t burn as easily and cleanly as the other option, but it still works in a kerosene heater and is often cheaper. It also has greater energy capacity.

Red colored diesel

Often referred to as an off-road diesel, this diesel is no different from other diesels except that it is colored red for tax purposes. On-road diesel is taxed more heavily than off-road diesel. As a result, it’s much cheaper than other types, but it’s illegal to use in your road vehicles. However, this is not a problem for heaters.

biodiesel

Biodiesel is also available for use in petroleum heaters, but contains 5% organic components. It works just as well as a heating oil, but the quality of combustion varies depending on the product.

How to burn diesel in a kerosene heater

additives

When using diesel in a kerosene heater, you need an additive for the diesel to burn properly. Because diesel burns at a higher temperature, incomplete combustion can occur as the heater operates at temperatures designed for kerosene. Fuel flow through the wick is reduced, which can lead to carbon buildup and clogging. This shortens the life of the wick and can cause problems later, even if you switch back to kerosene.

To reduce this problem, you can use additives to make the diesel burn clean. This can be isopropyl alcohol with a purity of 91% or higher, kerosene additives, diesel additives or even just kerosene.

The proportions for each of these additives are conservative. For isopropyl alcohol you can add 5ml of this to 1 pint of diesel for best results. However, since each gas station has a different quality of diesel, you may need to adjust this slightly.

Kerosene and diesel fuel additives can be added according to the proportions listed on the bottle.

The best additive for diesel is pure kerosene. This is also the easiest since you don’t need to follow any specific ratio or special types of additives. You can fill the heater tank with 2/3 to ¾ diesel and the rest with kerosene and it will work just fine. The more kerosene you add, the less likely you are to damage your wick.

wick

You can also reduce the problem by using cotton or fiberglass wicks. Fiberglass is good for kerosene but not the best when it comes to diesel, so you may need to remove and clean it as the carbon builds up.

Cotton wicks are better for burning diesel than other options. They don’t last quite as long, but the burnt edges are trimmed away to avoid clogging or carbon buildup.

Let the wick soak up the diesel for about half an hour before turning on the heater. If you don’t, you’ll just burn the wick itself.

Safety precautions for burning diesel in a kerosene heater

Since kerosene heaters can get very hot, you should make sure that the heater is not located near flammable materials. Make sure you don’t store your fuel near the heater while it’s running.

Also, kerosene heaters typically do not have vents, which can expose you to combustion gases and lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be extremely dangerous. Provide adequate ventilation when indoors and never leave a kerosene heater on while you sleep.

Heaters usually come with venting guidelines to avoid such problems, but since diesel doesn’t burn completely it produces more carbon monoxide and it’s always safer to increase the amount of venting for safety reasons.

Even if they’re low on fuel, don’t expect them to just turn off on their own. When they run out of fuel, they produce far more noxious fumes than usual.

It should also be noted that diesel is not as pure as kerosene. While hazardous fumes are not too much of a problem, there is always a chance that the wick will burn up, which can also create fumes.

Problems burning diesel in a kerosene heater

problems with wick burning

As previously mentioned, there could be issues with the lifespan of the wick. Sometimes you might even have trouble lighting the wick in the first place and making sure it stays lit. It becomes even more difficult if you use biodiesel.

This would require you to keep the wick much lower than normal and replace it sooner.

efficiency

Although diesel has a greater energy capacity than kerosene, using diesel as a substitute is not very efficient. This is because kerosene is a refined distillation, but diesel is not. As a result, diesel sometimes does not burn completely.

Also, since diesel burns at a higher temperature, it can cause problems if you are in a cold room or have fans.

Gel

Sometimes diesel starts to gel in colder temperatures. This will cause you problems when you need to start your heater and cause more problems as you will need to clean your heater much more frequently.

So while it’s possible to use diesel in your kerosene heaters, it’s best to keep it as a temporary replacement rather than long-term.

The wick is maintained by burning it dry. The reason to dry burn the wick is so it lasts longer and is in better condition for the life of the wick. The right time to dry burn a wick is the first time you light the kerosene device and when the wick seems to be forming too much tar or soot.

Here are the steps.

1- Take the device outdoors for the first firing. Place the device on a flat, level surface free from wind and combustible materials.

2- Fill the fuel tank with just enough kerosene to burn the wick for an hour and a half. Typically this will be about half a gallon. Consult the owner’s manual for the correct amount to determine the rate at which the appliance will burn the fuel.

3- Wait 20-30 minutes to allow the wick to fully saturate with fuel.

4- Turn the wick adjustment knob clockwise to raise the wick to full height.

5- Light the wick with the igniter or a match.

6- Let the flame burn at the highest position until it is about 1 inch high.

7- Lower the wick to about halfway to allow the unit to retract. This allows the burner and all other surfaces to burn and solidify their novelty. This step is only necessary for a new device. Additionally, lowering the wick does not improve wick life. It’s mostly handy to burn the device outside for the first time, as you’ll end up burning some of the manufacturing chemicals.

8- After the burner and the rest of the unit appear properly broken in, raise the wick to the highest point again for about an hour.

9- Let the wick burn until the fuel runs out. That’s why it’s called dry burning. They burn the wick until there is no more fuel.

If you use a kerosene heater in your home or workplace, you should take precautions against a number of serious hazards.

These dangers include:

fire or explosion. A fire can be caused by operating the heater too close to furniture, curtains, or other flammable objects, by knocking over a burning heater, or by accidentally igniting fuel while filling the tank. Explosions can be caused by using the wrong fuel or by operating the heater in an area where flammable vapors are present.

burns. Burns can be caused by direct contact with a heater or by igniting combustible clothing. Children in particular should be kept away from heaters that are in operation. Pets could also be injured.

Suffocation. Petroleum heaters consume oxygen when they burn. If they are operated in a small room or in an insufficiently ventilated area, the oxygen in the air could be reduced to dangerous levels. A reduced oxygen supply can lead to incomplete combustion of the fuel and the formation of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can be fatal without warning in sufficient concentrations or if inhaled for prolonged periods.

indoor air pollution. In addition to carbon monoxide, kerosene heaters can emit pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. Inhaling these substances can pose a risk, especially to people such as pregnant women, people with asthma, people with cardiovascular diseases, the elderly and young children.

These hazards can be minimized or avoided by carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions for the use of kerosene heaters and by taking other sensible safety precautions.

You should also be aware that kerosene heaters are still illegal in some areas. Check with your local fire department or firefighter for any usage restrictions in your area before purchasing.

Choice of model

There are two types of portable kerosene heaters – convective and radiant.

The convection heater is usually circular in shape. Its fuel tank is located under the wick and combustion chamber. The wick absorbs fuel and delivers it to the combustion chamber.

Convection heaters circulate warm air up and out in all directions. They are designed for large areas or even multiple rooms, but never for a small, enclosed area like a bedroom. Some owners report that one or two of these units can adequately heat an entire home if the temperature stays above freezing.

Convection heaters must be moved to refuel as they do not have a removable fuel tank. As a rule, refueling is carried out with a siphon pump. Make sure a convection heater has a fuel gauge.

Radiant heaters – mostly in a rectangular shape – are designed for smaller areas. They also have a wick and a combustion chamber and also have a reflector that directs the heat towards people or objects. Some heaters have electric fans to increase the flow of warm air.

Many – but not all – Radiant models have a removable fuel tank, meaning the heater can stay in place. Only the fuel tank has to be carried to where the fuel is stored.

A radiant heater without a removable fuel tank must be moved for each refueling – just like a convective model.

Make sure your heater has a recognized seal of approval such as the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) label. The UL label means that the heater has performed well under test conditions and meets acceptable fire safety standards.

Also make sure your heater has a battery powered lighting device – it eliminates the need for matches.

Heaters should have a safety shut-off device that will extinguish the flame if the appliance is jarred or tipped over.

dealing with dangers

A well-designed kerosene heater does not emit smoke or a strong odor during normal operation. But you might notice a faint smell of kerosene when you enter the house.

There is also a strong odor from kerosene heaters for a few minutes when turned on or off and when they run out of fuel. So it’s a good idea to check the fuel gauge regularly.

But the real danger is that misusing kerosene heaters could replace room oxygen with carbon monoxide and lead to death by asphyxiation.

Therefore, it is important that other rooms are adequately ventilated and that a source of fresh outside air such as a window or door is open at least an inch when using a kerosene heater.

The emission of other important pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide is an additional reason why you need adequate ventilation and fresh outside air.

Petroleum heaters can be particularly dangerous in bedrooms, especially when large room heating appliances are used in small spaces.

“You have to keep an eye on a kerosene heater, and you can’t do that when you’re asleep,” warns a fire safety engineer.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission, a federal agency, has recommended strengthening manufacturers’ voluntary safety standards and further educating the public about the proper use of kerosene heaters.

Use it safely

When purchasing a portable kerosene heater, you must allocate time to purchasing fuel, fueling the heater, and taking care of maintenance.

You will need to check the wick every one to two weeks during the heating season. If it gets dirty, clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

It’s also important to wipe up spilled kerosene immediately – there is a risk of fire – and to remove dust and dirt regularly.

Petroleum heaters require 1K kerosene. When colored or cloudy kerosene is burned, it emits an odor, smokes and causes increased indoor pollution levels because the fuel’s higher sulfur content greatly increases sulfur dioxide emissions. And kerosene other than 1K quality can clog the wick. Never use a substitute such as gasoline or camp stove fuel. In a kerosene heater, such fuels could cause a fire or explode.

To avoid the risk of fire even during normal operation, place kerosene heaters several feet away from all furniture, curtains, papers, clothing, bedding, and other combustible materials.

Remember that kerosene heaters have a constant open flame and should not be used in a room containing flammable solvents, aerosol sprays, paint, gasoline, kerosene containers or any type of oil.

Parents of babies, toddlers and young children, as well as pet owners, should be aware that touching any part of a running kerosene heater over an open flame can cause severe burns.

For this reason, safety cages designed to keep small children and pets at a distance have become popular.

Never attempt to move a burning kerosene heater. A carrying handle could also cause burns. Extinguish the flame and allow the heater to cool before moving.

And never refuel a kerosene heater in living quarters or when the heater is still hot. Wait for it to cool down.

Firefighters are urging you to turn off kerosene heaters before you go to sleep. It is better to use your central heating while the family is sleeping.

Remember, you can reduce the dangers of fire, severe burns, pollution, and asphyxiation from kerosene heaters by:

Follow safety tips. Maintaining a constant source of fresh air. Keep doors to other rooms open.

It’s also important to have a smoke detector and fire extinguisher nearby.

handling of fuel

With a portable kerosene heater, you often have to drive to a kerosene dealer unless you are on a delivery route.

A large convection heater operating 15 hours a day uses up to 14 gallons of fuel per week — an amount that would require three 5-gallon kerosene canisters. Make sure the containers are clearly labeled “kerosene”.

Mixing gasoline and kerosene – or their containers – is dangerous. Never use a gasoline can as a substitute for a kerosene canister.

Once you get the containers back home, you’ll need a place to store the kerosene canisters and fuel the heater.

In both cases, a garage is preferable to the house. If there is no garage, a basement away from the central heating or an outdoor storage shed are possible.

Resist the temptation to put on a hot kerosene heater in a warm house – it’s like playing with dynamite! And never smoke while refueling.

Follow the siphon pump’s instructions and only fill the tank about 90 percent full. Cold kerosene in a heater tank expands as it warms to room temperature and could overflow if space is limited.

Place the heater back where you want it to turn on. Slightly open at least one window and ignite the heater according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Summer Fall Maintenance

Here’s what to do before storing a portable kerosene heater for the summer:

Remove and discard all fuel from the tank. Kerosene can chemically change and spoil over the summer.

Clean the wick when dirty. When worn out, replace it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Clean heater and discard weak batteries. Store good batteries in a dry place and tape the ends.

Place the unit and accessories in a dust and moisture free container – possibly the box that the heater came in.

How to proceed if you take your heater out of storage in the fall:

Insert the batteries and check the shut-off mechanism and wick for proper operation.

Fill the tank with fresh kerosene. Never use kerosene from a previous heating season – it could be spoiled.

Go through the owner’s manual to ensure you remember all operating and safety features.

Below are some of the most common helpful questions and answers about our indoor kerosene heaters. See your owner’s manual for more information.

Was this information helpful? YES | NO (I need more information)

What kind of kerosene should I use?

The only fuel approved for indoor kerosene heaters is K-1 kerosene. K-1 kerosene is most commonly available at local convenience stores and gas stations. Only buy kerosene that is rated K-1. Lower quality fuels produce odors and can cause other problems. If you are unsure who sells K-1 kerosene in your area, contact your local fuel retailer. K-1 kerosene is also available in packet form at many hardware and hardware stores. Packaged kerosene has a longer shelf life than kerosene drawn from a pump, making it a good choice for those who only want to have a heater on hand in case of an emergency. However, if you are using your kerosene heater as an additional heat source, you will see the biggest savings by purchasing your K-1 kerosene at a local supermarket or gas station. The use of synthetic fuel is not recommended.

Can red kerosene be used?

The federal government requires kerosene to be dyed red if it is not intended for road use and is therefore subject to a 24.9¢ tax. As long as it’s advertised as K-1 kerosene, it can be used in your heater. We recommend using K-1 clear kerosene where available, as contaminants in clear kerosene are much easier to see.

How should K-1 kerosene be stored?

Store K-1 kerosene only in a new, clean, and sealed container that is clearly labeled for kerosene. Containers such as used kegs, used milk containers, used plastic jugs, and jerry cans contaminate kerosene and can damage the wick or cause other problems.

It is best to store your K-1 Kerosene in an approved container in a cool, dark, dry place away from living quarters. After filling your heater, be sure to put the cap back on your container securely to protect your K-1 kerosene from contamination.

How long can I store K-1 kerosene?

One to six months is the longest we recommend storing K-1 kerosene. K-1 kerosene should not be stored from one season to the next, even in the heater tank. If left over the summer, the kerosene could break down and absorb water. There are bacteria and mold that live in kerosene and feed on fossil fuels. As this process accelerates in the warm summer months, sludge forms in the kerosene. If this kerosene is used in the following season, it may clog the wick and cause odor, poor burning and wick hardening. It is best to buy kerosene in small quantities so that you can be sure that you have fuel that is as fresh as possible. Find a local supermarket or gas station that you can trust to have good kerosene and stick with it.

How can I tell if my K-1 kerosene is good?

The best way to tell if you have good fuel is to siphon a small amount of kerosene from the bottom of your fuel tank into a small clear jar. It is important to pump from the bottom because if water is present it will be there as it has a higher specific gravity than kerosene. Let the sample sit for at least an hour and see if anything floats in the fuel. Bubbles on the bottom aren’t good – they’re water bubbles, not air. Airborne particles should not be visible. If the kerosene is clear, it should be crystal clear without separation. Anything cloudy or yellowed is contaminated and should not be used. It’s harder to see contaminants in red kerosene, but even red-colored kerosene should be translucent – much like Kool-Aid, not cloudy or opaque. The fuel should also smell like kerosene and not have a diesel or gasoline odor. If you have doubts about the quality of your kerosene – make fresh. The final test is to burn the heater; The flame should be bright and even. Any kerosene odor should become very faint after the heater has reached optimum combustion (typically 45-60 minutes).

What Causes Bad Smell?

Bad smell after burning the heater is most often caused by low-quality kerosene. If the kerosene you are using has a high sulfur content, or if it is low-grade kerosene, it cannot be completely burned at the temperatures reached in a portable kerosene heater. These unburned hydrocarbons collect on the wick and harden, resulting in minor burning and odor problems. Also, be very careful when refueling your heater to avoid spilling kerosene on the heater. Kerosene spilled on the heater or on the drip pan can cause a strong kerosene odor when the heater gets hot. In addition, if the heater is operated at a temperature setting that is too low, or with a wick installed too low, incomplete combustion of the kerosene can cause odor nuisance. A heater should always be operated at a high level, just turned down far enough so that it does not become sooty. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct wick height for your model.

Why isn’t my heater on?

If you’re having trouble keeping the heater burning, there are several things to check. Is this the first use of the heater? If this is the case, the problem may be caused by not soaking the wick long enough before lighting it. It is the kerosene vapors that burn over the top of the wick and so it is very important to wait at least 60 minutes with the wick in the down position in a full tank of kerosene to ensure the wick is fully saturated support combustion.

If you light the heater too quickly, it may ignite, but air bubbles may develop in the wick’s capillaries and then it may not hold enough kerosene “wicking” on the surface to keep your heater burning properly. If a problem occurs after the first kerosene tank has been burned, the problem may be fuel related. Poor quality kerosene or contaminated with water will clog the wick fibers and impede fuel flow to the wick surface. This starves the flame of fuel. The best solution is to replace the wick and kerosene in your heater and start over.

Why is my heater smoking?

First, make sure the heater is filled with K-1 kerosene. Other fuels such as petrol, heating oil, etc. do not burn hot, causing the heater to burn out uncontrollably. NEVER USE GASOLINE or any other fuel labeled as flammable. If you have questions about the fuel in your heater, it’s best to drain it, replace the wick, and start with fresh K-1 kerosene. If you’re sure of your kerosene and your heater is giving off sooty black smoke, it’s a sign that the fuel-air mixture isn’t right. Make sure your heater is off the train. Too much air can create a very high flame condition. Avoid placing the heater in drafty areas or under a ceiling fan. Make sure the burner chimney is seated correctly. If the burner chimney is not properly seated after lighting, you may get a very high flame on one side. If there is a high orange flame all around, try rolling the wick adjustment knob down within the adjustment range – the wick may just be raised too high. If these things don’t fix the problem, wait for the heater to cool and check the burner cylinder. If any holes are clogged with soot, it must be cleaned, or if dented or dented, it must be replaced. After checking the fuel and burner, you should check that the wick is installed at the correct height. The exact wick height can be found in the user manual. If the wick is installed correctly and there is no other obvious defect, it is best to take the heater to a service center to determine the cause. Our Find a Retailer tool can be used to find a service center.

Why doesn’t my heater light up?

Is this the first time the heater is lit? If this is the case, you need to make sure the heater is filled with good quality K-1 kerosene and that the wick has been soaked in the lowered position in a full kerosene tank for 60 minutes. This ensures that the wick is fully saturated with kerosene. Then bring the wick to the “high” position.

When you press the ignitor button you should see the igniter move into position to ignite the kerosene vapor over the top of the wick surface. The igniter should glow bright orange. The igniter should come right up to the top of the wick but not touch the wick. When the igniter is placed in the side of the wick, it does not ignite – only the kerosene vapors just above the surface of the wick ignite. You may need to lower the wick adjustment mechanism a bit to ensure the igniter makes proper contact. If the igniter does not glow, check the batteries. They may need to be replaced or the igniter filament may be broken. If the batteries need to be replaced, use only regular-duty non-alkaline replacement batteries. Alkaline batteries give too strong an initial jolt and can destroy the igniter.

Why doesn’t my igniter light up?

If your igniter doesn’t glow, the first obvious reasons are dead batteries. Batteries should only be replaced with non-alkaline regular batteries. Alkaline batteries can have too strong an initial jolt and often burn out the igniter. The strongest is not the best in this application. If you have fresh non-alkaline batteries and they still don’t glow, the igniter probably needs to be replaced. To prevent the igniter from burning out, do not allow the igniter to contact the side of the wick or remain in the flame after lighting.

Why doesn’t my heating switch off?

If you press the shut off button and the wick doesn’t fall, it is most likely due to tar and carbon buildup. If the heater has been burned too low or contaminated kerosene has been used, a sticky tar will form on the wick and it will harden. As the wick becomes harder and thicker, it becomes more difficult to raise and lower the wick until it no longer slides between the wick adjuster and the primary air tube. Severe water contamination in the kerosene can also cause the cotton fibers in the wick to swell and not always be able to move freely. The wick should be replaced.

How often should I change my wick?

The American Lung Association, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (in a booklet titled “What You Should Know about Combustion Appliances and Indoor Air Pollution”) recommends that you check and replace the wick before each heating season. You may need to change the wick more frequently if you are using inferior kerosene, or if you are burning your heater on a heat setting that is too low, or if your kerosene becomes contaminated.

If you need more help, watch our helpful wick installation video here.

These documents are for reference purposes and are not intended to replace your owner’s manual. It is important to read your owner’s manual fully which is designed to provide you with instructions on how to properly assemble the heater, maintain the heater, store the heater and most importantly how to operate the heater in a safe and efficient manner. Visit our Owner’s Manual section to find a copy of your heater’s owner’s manual.

Was this information helpful? YES | NO (I need more information)

by Nick Gromicko, CMI®

A kerosene heater, also known as a paraffin heater, is a portable, unvented heating device that uses the controlled combustion of kerosene. In the USA it is mainly used as additional heating and as emergency heating in the event of a power failure. In Japan and other countries, it is used as the main source for heating residential buildings.

Kerosene burners work in a similar way to kerosene lamps: a fabric wick draws kerosene from a tank into a combustion chamber above by capillary action. Once lit, the wick warms nearby objects through radiation and convection. The user can control the heat of the burner by raising or lowering the height of the wick in the combustion chamber. The heater is shut off by fully retracting the exposed wick into a cavity below the burner.

Petroleum heaters are preferred for their portability, efficiency, and independence from electricity. They also lack a pressure-fed fuel system, which is a significant safety advantage over traditional heating systems. However, the following problems plague kerosene heaters:

Odor. While newer kerosene heaters don’t pose as much of a problem, all of these heaters give off an odor when fueled. Odors usually disappear after the heater starts to burn normally. If the odor does not dissipate, the cause may be that the wick may be too thin for the heating unit, allowing kerosene vapors to pass through the wick gap and escape into the room. Odors and excessive smoke can also result from burning poor quality fuel or contaminated kerosene;

insufficient ventilation. Petroleum heaters, like ventless fireplaces, vent soot, sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide directly into the living space. In modern, well-insulated homes, an improperly adjusted, improperly fueled, or poorly maintained kerosene heater can pose a serious health hazard; and

fire hazard. Flammable liquids are burned in the living space, creating a vulnerability to mechanical and man-made problems.

The above safety concerns can be addressed by checking for the presence of the following safety design features:

an Underwriters Laboratory (UL) seal, guaranteeing that it meets certain safety requirements;

a push-button automatic starter that eliminates the need for matches;

a low center of gravity making accidental tipover of the torch less likely;

an automatic shut-off device to turn off the heater if it tips over. This device also prevents kerosene spillage during a tip-over;

a front-mounted grid to prevent contact burns;

Placing the heater on a large, refractory surface;

a model equipped with a wick – this makes it impossible to flood the burner;

all components made of heavy, reliable metal;

a robust fuel tank, sealed and installed under the burner; and

a fuel gauge to prevent accidental overfueling.

Safe Use Practices

Only burn water-clear K1 kerosene that is not yellowed or contaminated. While other grades of kerosene may look like K1, they release more pollutants in the home. Never burn gasoline or other flammable liquids as they dramatically increase the risk of fire or explosion.

Do not use a kerosene heater in areas where explosive vapors may be present, such as B. in a garage.

Always store kerosene in a container intended for and labeled as kerosene and never in a can that previously contained gasoline. Gasoline tanks are typically red, while kerosene tanks are usually blue. The container should have a tight-fitting lid to avoid spills. Do not store large amounts of kerosene or other flammable liquids.

Gasoline tanks are typically red, while kerosene tanks are usually blue. The container should have a tight-fitting lid to avoid spills. Do not store large amounts of kerosene or other flammable liquids. Never bring kerosene into the house other than the fuel in the heater, which should be filled after the heater has cooled down outdoors.

Keep a safe distance between the heater and furniture, curtains and other flammable objects.

Do not place the heater in a high traffic area or in the path to an exit.

Instruct children never to touch the controls and keep children and pets away from the heater at all times.

Do not leave the heating on while the house is empty.

Ventilate the room by opening a door or window.

Never move or carry the heater in the event of an explosion or flare. In emergencies, activate the manual shutoff switch, if equipped.

In summary, kerosene heaters are attractive alternatives to standard heating systems, although they raise certain health and safety concerns if improperly designed or operated.