The wick draws kerosene from the tank via capillary action. Once lit, the wick heats the Kerosene until it turns into a gas (gasification) and this gas is then burnt which heats air via convection or nearby objects via radiation. The burner is designed to properly oxygenate and distribute the flames.

What causes a kerosene heater not to light?

The biggest causes of a kerosene heater not lighting are bad fuel and dirty wicks.
 

How do you troubleshoot a kerosene heater?

Kerosene Heater Troubleshooting

1. Remove the cap on the fuel tank and check to see if the tank contains fuel.
2. Replace the batteries for the igniter plug if the plug does not glow when you push the igniter button.
3. Turn the wick adjuster knob to lower the wick, so the igniter plug touches the top of the wick.

What causes a kerosene heater to explode?

Explosions could be caused by use of the wrong kind of fuel, or by operating the heater in an area where there are combustible fumes. Burns. Burns could be caused by direct contact with a heater, or by ignition of combustible clothing. Children especially should be kept at a safe distance from operating heaters.

Why is my kerosene heater burning dirty?

If you are sure of your kerosene and your heater is giving off sooty black smoke it is a sign that the fuel/air mix is off. Make sure your heater is not in a draft. Too much air can create a very high flame condition. Avoid placing the heater in drafty areas or under a ceiling fan.

How do I know if my kerosene heater needs a new wick?

Here are the signs that you may need to replace the wick in your kerosene heater.

1. The flame is ragged, uneven, irregular, or won’t reach ½ inch above the burn plate.
2. Lighting the wick is difficult – see how to light a kerosene heater.
3. The wick lights but it takes a very long time for it to get to normal burn position.

Is it OK to let a kerosene heater run out of fuel?

Fiber glass wicks are maintained by a process known as “clean burning.” To “clean burn,” take the heater to a well ventilated place outside of the living area, turn the heater on and allow it to run completely out of fuel.

How do you clean soot from a kerosene heater?

Clean the outside of a kerosene heater with a mixture of ammonia and water or use common non-flammable household cleaners. For really dirty kerosene 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.

How often should you dry burn a kerosene heater?

once a week

For your heater to burn to its maximum efficiency, you should regularly dry burn the wick as it accumulates deposits. Many people dry burn the wick as much as once a week. The first dry burn should take place within a week of using the heater or after burning 3.5 tanks of kerosene.

Can you get carbon monoxide poisoning from a kerosene heater?

A space heater that is not installed right or not working properly can release carbon monoxide and other toxic fumes into the room and use up much of the oxygen in the room. Most space heaters use kerosene or natural gas for fuel.