Regan Brown
Kerosene heaters are a great way to keep warm, but their fuel tanks can sometimes be a hassle to deal with. A common issue with these heaters is that the fuel tanks tend to rust and leak over time, leading to a messy and potentially dangerous situation. While some people opt for simply replacing the tank, others choose to get creative and attempt to make their own larger fuel tanks to extend the time between refills. In this discussion, we will explore the different approaches to tackling the issue of a leaky kerosene heater fuel tank and the considerations one must make when attempting a DIY solution.
Characteristics and Values for Making a Larger Fuel Tank for a Kerosene Heater
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fabrication skills | Welding a new tank requires good fabrication skills |
| Tank material | Metal |
| Tank capacity | 10 gallons |
| Tank condition | Used or new |
| Tank source | Purchased from Sears or acquired from a broken leaf blower |
| Tank cleaning | Clean thoroughly before welding |
| Tank sealing | Use Seal-All from Amazon |
| Fuel type | Kerosene or diesel |
| Fuel source | Kerosene jugs or home heating oil tank |
| Refilling process | Use an electric siphon or a pump |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Fixing pinhole leaks
If you have a kerosene heater with a fuel tank that has pinhole leaks, there are several ways to fix it. The first step is to assess the extent of the damage by cleaning out the tank and shaking it with a pile of old nuts and bolts inside to determine the number of pinholes. This will help you decide on the best course of action.
One option is to weld the pinholes. However, this method can be challenging, especially if the tank is not thoroughly cleaned, as diesel, fuel oil, and kerosene are difficult to remove completely. Additionally, tank sealers may not adhere well to the welded areas. If you choose to weld, it is recommended to use a small fuel tank from a broken leaf blower or similar source.
Another option is to use a sealant product specifically designed for fuel tanks, such as "Seal-All" or "Napa," which can be found at stores like Walmart and Advance Auto. These products can effectively repair pinhole leaks without the need for welding. Simply clean the tank, apply the sealant, and let it dry.
For a quick fix, you can also try using high-fat content soap, such as Ivory soap, to plug the pinhole leaks temporarily. This method only takes a few minutes and can be useful if you need to pass a safety test or buy time before applying a more permanent solution.
If you are looking for a more permanent solution without welding, consider using products like JB Weld or body putty/resin. First, remove any paint from the leak area, then use a ball peen hammer to hammer the pinhole area inward. Apply the putty or resin, let it dry, and sand it flush with the rest of the tank.
Finally, if you are comfortable with welding and have access to a welder, you can try heating the tank and applying green sleeve retainer locktite to the affected area. This method has been successful for some, but the product can be expensive.
While these methods can fix pinhole leaks in your kerosene heater's fuel tank, it is important to remember that safety should always come first. If you are uncomfortable with any of these procedures or unsure about your fabrication skills, it may be best to consult a professional or consider purchasing a new or replacement fuel tank.
Creative Ways to Hide Your LP Fuel Tank
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Cleaning the tank
When cleaning a kerosene heater tank, it is important not to contaminate the tank with water or cleaning products. For this reason, only use 1-K kerosene to clean the inside of the tank. Use 1-K kerosene to scrub and wash away all dirt and debris. Siphon away the contaminated kerosene and return it to a service station for proper disposal. Do not reuse this kerosene.
Before cleaning the tank, it is important to check for pinholes. One way to do this is to shake the tank with a pile of old nuts and bolts inside. If there are pinholes, it will be difficult to get the tank clean enough to weld safely. Diesel, fuel oil, and kerosene are hard to clean out. Additionally, tank sealers may not adhere well.
If your tank has pinholes, you can try to weld them. Clean the outside of the tank and put on 2-3 coats of Seal-All. Clean out the tank and, where the pinholes are, clean the outside of the tank and apply the Seal-All.
To clean the outside of the heater, use a mixture of ammonia and water or common non-flammable household cleaners. For very dirty heaters, a mixture of oven cleaner and elbow grease will do the trick. The glass mantle or panel on radiant heaters should be removed and cleaned with soapy water.
Draining Underground Fuel Tanks: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Using a small tank underneath
If you're looking to make a larger fuel tank for your kerosene heater, one option is to use a small tank underneath the heater. This setup can work, but there are a few things to consider and some steps to follow to ensure it's safe and effective.
First, check the condition of your current fuel tank. If it has pinhole leaks, water damage, or rust, it may not be suitable for continued use. Cleaning the tank by shaking it with old nuts and bolts inside can help dislodge any debris or residue. If the tank is in poor condition, it may be necessary to cut out a space for a DIY fuel tank or to weld the pinholes closed, but this requires fabrication skills and can be time-consuming.
Next, consider the type of small tank you want to use underneath. One option is to use a small fuel tank from a broken leaf blower or similar device. Ensure that the tank is clean and free of any residue from its previous contents. You can use a product like Seal-All to clean and seal the tank, applying 2-3 coats to the inside and outside of the tank.
When choosing a small tank, ensure it is airtight. While fuel caps on kerosene heaters are typically vented, a tank with pinholes will need to be airtight to prevent leaks.
Finally, consider how you will connect the small tank to your heater. You may need to use a siphon or a small pump to draw the fuel from the tank to the heater. An electric siphon is an affordable option that can make the filling process effortless.
By following these steps and considerations, you can safely and effectively use a small tank underneath your kerosene heater to increase its fuel capacity.
Draining the Land Cruiser Fuel Tank: Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Welding a new tank
Preparation and Materials
Before beginning the welding process, ensure you have the necessary materials and safety equipment, including a welding machine, welding helmet, gloves, and appropriate clothing. Additionally, you will need to select the type of welding process you will use, such as MIG or stick welding. It is crucial to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful fumes during the welding process.
Cleaning and Preparation of the Tank
The first step is to thoroughly clean the kerosene heater tank to remove any residual kerosene, fuel oil, or diesel. These substances can be challenging to clean and may affect the adhesion of tank sealers. One method suggested by someone with experience in the field is to fill the tank with water to displace the fumes, a technique also used when welding gasoline tanks. It is imperative to purge the tank and let it sit empty and open for several days before welding.
Welding Process
When welding a new tank, it is essential to follow the safety guidelines and best practices for welding on fuel tanks. Ensure that you are confident and comfortable with the welding process you have chosen. Take the necessary precautions to avoid any accidents or injuries. The specific welding technique you use will depend on your expertise and the equipment you have available.
Doubler Plates
To reinforce the structural integrity of the new tank, consider adding doubler plates to the bottom and sides. These plates should be made from the same gauge steel as the tank, typically between 12 and 14 gauge, with a thickness of .075 to .100 inches. The plates should overlap the damaged or welded areas by at least 2 inches on each side to ensure a secure bond and prevent future leaks.
Final Steps and Testing
Once the welding is complete, it is crucial to inspect the new tank for any imperfections or leaks. You can perform a pressure test using non-compressible fluids or compressed air, but use caution when using compressed air due to safety concerns. Ensure you follow the safety guidelines and regulations when working with flammable liquids and gases.
Draining a Ford Transit Fuel Tank: Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Buying a larger tank
If you're looking to buy a larger fuel tank for your kerosene heater, there are a few options available to you. Firstly, it's important to note that kerosene heaters are generally recommended for outdoor use only, due to the risk of incomplete combustion resulting in excessive fumes and a thin, oily film covering surrounding surfaces. If you are set on using a kerosene heater, there are a variety of retailers that offer replacement fuel tanks, including The Home Depot, Heater Parts Central, and eBay.
The Home Depot offers a range of kerosene heaters with fuel tanks included, with prices ranging from $170.03 to $445.14. These heaters are designed for indoor use and come with a variety of features, such as ignition assemblies, wicks, and glass cylinders.
Heater Parts Central also offers a wide selection of indoor kerosene heater parts, including fuel tanks, gauges, burners, heat chambers, and ignition assemblies. They invite customers to get in touch with any questions about their products and promise to respond within 24-48 hours.
Additionally, eBay offers a range of kerosene heater tanks from various brands, including DuraHeat, Mr. Heater, and Aladdin. These tanks are available in a variety of conditions, including new, used, and unspecified, and prices vary depending on the brand and condition.
When considering a larger fuel tank for your kerosene heater, it's important to keep in mind that fuel caps on these heaters are typically vented. Therefore, any pinholes in the tank could result in leaks. It is recommended to clean out the tank and weld any pinholes before use, or to use a seal-all product like Seal-All from Amazon.
In conclusion, while there are options available for purchasing a larger fuel tank for your kerosene heater, it is important to prioritise safety and ensure that your heater is functioning correctly to avoid any potential hazards associated with kerosene use.
Fixing Dual Fuel Tanks in a 1988 F250
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
You can purchase a larger tank from a hardware store, such as a 10-gallon air tank from Sears.
Yes, you could try to fix your current tank if it has pinhole leaks. Try cleaning it out and using a product like Seal-All to coat the outside of the tank.
One method is to shake the tank with a pile of old nuts and bolts inside to dislodge any debris.
Yes, you could have two smaller tanks, one in use while the other is being refilled.
You can purchase an electric siphon or a small pump to make the refilling process easier.
