Rajan Wilcox
Kerosene heaters are a popular choice for those looking to heat their homes or workspaces. However, with kerosene becoming increasingly difficult to source and expensive, some are wondering if diesel fuel can be used as a substitute in their kerosene heaters. While it is possible to burn diesel fuel in a kerosene heater, it is not recommended due to the potential for sooting and carbon buildup, as well as increased fumes and odour. In addition, diesel fuel is thicker than kerosene and may clog the injector or fail to burn through the wick. For these reasons, it is advised to use kerosene in kerosene heaters and diesel fuel in diesel heaters to ensure optimal performance and safety.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can diesel be used in a kerosene heater? | Yes, but it is not recommended. |
| Why is diesel not recommended? | It produces more smoke, soot, fumes, and smell. It also requires more maintenance, as it crusts up the wick and the inside of the heater. |
| What type of diesel can be used in a kerosene heater? | Diesel #1 with 91% isopropyl alcohol added, ultra-low sulfur diesel, or diesel #2 blended with gasoline. |
| Are there alternatives to using diesel in a kerosene heater? | Yes, alternatives include wood, propane, and kerosene. |
| Where can kerosene be purchased? | Gas stations, Walmart, and other department stores. |
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What You'll Learn
Kerosene heaters with wicks should not be used with diesel fuel
The use of diesel fuel in a kerosene wick heater can result in several issues. Firstly, the wick can become heavily sooted or crusted with carbon deposits, requiring frequent cleaning or replacement. This buildup of soot and carbon can also lead to increased smoke and a higher concentration of carbon monoxide (CO) emissions, which can be harmful to your health and cause eye irritation.
Additionally, diesel fuel tends to burn at a higher temperature than kerosene, which can result in a hotter flame that may exceed the heater's design specifications. This can pose safety hazards, potentially damaging the heater or increasing the risk of fire. Furthermore, diesel fuel may have a stronger odour than kerosene, resulting in unpleasant fumes that can linger and affect indoor air quality.
While some individuals have reported successful experiences using diesel fuel in kerosene heaters, it is important to exercise caution. The use of diesel fuel in kerosene heaters with wicks may void warranties and could potentially damage the heater over time. It is always recommended to consult the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines before using any fuel other than what the heater is designed for.
In summary, while it may be tempting to use diesel fuel in a kerosene heater with a wick due to its availability or cost considerations, it is important to prioritize safety and the intended design of the heater. Kerosene heaters are designed to burn kerosene, and using diesel fuel can lead to operational issues, increased maintenance, and potential health and safety risks. Therefore, it is advisable to use the recommended fuel type specified by the manufacturer to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and safety of your kerosene heater.
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Diesel fuel is cheaper than kerosene
In some cases, kerosene may be cheaper than diesel. For instance, one user reported that kerosene was 20 to 30 cents less than road diesel. However, this may be because diesel fuel includes road tax in the price, while kerosene does not.
It is important to note that using diesel fuel in a kerosene heater may not be safe or recommended. Kerosene is more refined than diesel and burns cleaner and cooler. Using diesel fuel in a kerosene heater may cause issues with the wick and may not burn as cleanly.
Some users have reported successfully using diesel fuel in their kerosene heaters by ensuring that the diesel burns hot and maintaining the correct wick height. However, others have warned that using diesel fuel can ruin a kerosene heater as it is thicker and can clog the injector. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution when using diesel fuel in a kerosene heater and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for fuel type.
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Kerosene burns cleaner than diesel
Kerosene is also more refined than diesel, which is why it burns cleaner and cooler. Diesel #2 is less refined and won't burn as cleanly as kerosene.
Kerosene is often used in very cold temperatures as it doesn't thicken as easily as diesel. Some people add kerosene to their diesel fuel during colder months to prevent the diesel from solidifying.
While diesel produces more heat than kerosene, kerosene is still a popular choice for heaters and engines because of its cleaner burn.
It is important to note that using the wrong type of fuel in a heater or engine can be dangerous. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and take appropriate safety precautions when using any type of fuel.
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Diesel #1 can be used as a substitute for kerosene if it has an additive
Kerosene heaters are illegal in some places, such as Massachusetts, and kerosene can be difficult to source and expensive. Diesel is a cheaper alternative, and some heaters are designed to run on both kerosene and diesel. However, diesel is thicker than kerosene and can clog the injector of a kerosene heater. It can also cause a build-up of soot, which may be dangerous.
Some people claim that diesel #1 can be used as a substitute for kerosene in a heater, as long as it has an additive such as 91% isopropyl alcohol. However, others disagree, saying that this is incorrect information and that it could be dangerous due to alcohol's low vapor point.
If you do choose to use diesel #1 with an additive in your kerosene heater, proceed with caution. Ensure the area is well-ventilated, as diesel can produce fumes and a strong smell. It is also important to regularly clean your heater, as carbon can build up and the wick can become sooty and harden.
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Kerosene heaters are illegal in Massachusetts
The law specifically prohibits the use of "unvented liquid-fired space heaters," which include portable space heaters, parlor heaters, cabinet heaters, and room heaters. These heaters use a flammable liquid, which can be challenging to control if it gets out of hand.
While some residents of Massachusetts have expressed interest in kerosene heaters due to concerns about possible grid failures, the state has maintained its stance on the illegality of these heaters. The fire marshal's office has reminded residents that while kerosene heaters may be legal in neighbouring states, they are not permitted in Massachusetts.
It is worth noting that there are alternative fuel options for heaters, such as diesel. However, using diesel fuel in a kerosene heater is not recommended as it can be less efficient and may not burn as cleanly as kerosene. Additionally, diesel is thicker than kerosene and can clog the injector of the heater. While some people have reported successfully using diesel in their kerosene heaters, it is important to exercise caution when using any type of fuel in a heater that is not manufactured for it.
In summary, kerosene heaters are illegal in Massachusetts due to safety concerns, and residents are advised against using them to avoid potential fines and insurance issues. While diesel fuel can be used as a substitute in some cases, it is important to prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for fuel usage in heaters.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, but it is not recommended. Kerosene burns cleaner and cooler than diesel, so using diesel may result in more smoke and soot. It can also be difficult to get the diesel to ignite in the first place.
Diesel is a cheaper alternative to kerosene, and it is more readily available at gas stations.
Burning diesel in a kerosene heater may produce more carbon monoxide than is safe. It can also be difficult to turn off the heater if the wick becomes covered in soot.
