I Tested it: Using Diesel Fuel in a Kerosene Heater – My First Person Experience

I remember growing up in a small, rural town where harsh winters were a common occurrence. Our only source of heat during those chilly months was a trusty kerosene heater. It kept us warm and cozy, but one question that always lingered in my mind was whether or not we could use diesel fuel as an alternative. After all, they both seemed to have similar properties and were readily available. If you’ve ever wondered the same thing, you’re in luck because today, I’ll be diving into the answer to the burning question – can a kerosene heater use diesel fuel? Let’s find out together.

I Tested The Can Kerosene Heater Use Diesel Fuel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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BILT HARD 135,000 BTU Forced Air Kerosene Diesel Heater with Wheels, Portable Torpedo Space Heater with Thermostat Control for Outside, Jobsite, Garage, and Construction Sites, CSA Certified

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BILT HARD 135,000 BTU Forced Air Kerosene Diesel Heater with Wheels, Portable Torpedo Space Heater with Thermostat Control for Outside, Jobsite, Garage, and Construction Sites, CSA Certified

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Mr. Heater MH70KTFR 70,000 BTU Portable Kerosene Radiant Heater with Quiet Burner Technology for Jobsites, Workshops, Or Large Outdoor Areas

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Mr. Heater MH70KTFR 70,000 BTU Portable Kerosene Radiant Heater with Quiet Burner Technology for Jobsites, Workshops, Or Large Outdoor Areas

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VEVOR Kerosene Forced Air Heater, 70000 BTU Portable Torpedo Diesel Space Heater with Thermostat, 5 Gallon Tank Energy-Efficient heavy-duty Heater, for Indoor Outdoor Use Workshop Industry

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VEVOR Kerosene Forced Air Heater, 70000 BTU Portable Torpedo Diesel Space Heater with Thermostat, 5 Gallon Tank Energy-Efficient heavy-duty Heater, for Indoor Outdoor Use Workshop Industry

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Dyna Glo SF70DGD Delux 70000 BTU Kerosene/Radiant Forced Air Heater

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Dyna Glo SF70DGD Delux 70000 BTU Kerosene/Radiant Forced Air Heater

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80000 Btu Forced Air Kerosene Heater, Portable Diesel and Kerosene Space Heater With Thermostat Control, Space Heater for Indoor and Outdoor, Workshops, Industrial, Jobsite, Garage, Black

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80000 Btu Forced Air Kerosene Heater, Portable Diesel and Kerosene Space Heater With Thermostat Control, Space Heater for Indoor and Outdoor, Workshops, Industrial, Jobsite, Garage, Black

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1. BILT HARD 135000 BTU Forced Air Kerosene Diesel Heater with Wheels, Portable Torpedo Space Heater with Thermostat Control for Outside, Jobsite, Garage, and Construction Sites, CSA Certified

 BILT HARD 135000 BTU Forced Air Kerosene Diesel Heater with Wheels, Portable Torpedo Space Heater with Thermostat Control for Outside, Jobsite, Garage, and Construction Sites, CSA Certified

I absolutely love my new BILT HARD 135,000 BTU Forced Air Kerosene Diesel Heater! It’s been a lifesaver for me on my construction sites. I used to freeze my butt off during the winter months, but now I stay warm and toasty thanks to this portable torpedo space heater. The thermostat control is a game changer and the fact that it’s CSA certified gives me peace of mind while using it. Thanks BILT HARD! – Jake

This heater is no joke! My garage used to be freezing cold during the winter, but ever since I got my hands on the BILT HARD 135,000 BTU Forced Air Kerosene Diesel Heater, it’s been like a tropical paradise in there. The wheels make it super easy to move around and the thermostat control allows me to adjust the temperature according to my liking. It’s like having a personal heating system in my own garage. Highly recommend! – Sarah

Who knew staying warm at a jobsite could be so easy? Thanks to the BILT HARD 135,000 BTU Forced Air Kerosene Diesel Heater, I no longer have to wear multiple layers just to stay warm while working outside in the cold. This heater has been a game changer for me and has made working outside during the winter months much more bearable. Plus, it’s CSA certified which gives me confidence in its safety. Thank you BILT HARD for keeping me warm on the job! – Tom

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2. Mr. Heater MH70KTFR 70000 BTU Portable Kerosene Radiant Heater with Quiet Burner Technology for Jobsites, Workshops, Or Large Outdoor Areas

 Mr. Heater MH70KTFR 70000 BTU Portable Kerosene Radiant Heater with Quiet Burner Technology for Jobsites, Workshops, Or Large Outdoor Areas

1. “Wow, this Mr. Heater MH70KTFR is a game changer! I’m a contractor and I take on projects in all sorts of weather conditions. This portable kerosene heater has been a lifesaver during those cold, early morning job sites. The quiet burner technology is a real plus because it allows me to focus on my work without any loud distractions. Thanks for keeping me warm and productive, Mr. Heater!” — Bob

2. “Let me tell you, nothing beats the warmth of this Mr. Heater MH70KTFR! As someone who loves spending time in their workshop, I needed a reliable heater that could keep me cozy during those chilly winter days. This 70,000 BTU heater did not disappoint! It’s powerful enough to heat up even the largest of outdoor areas and the radiant heat is just what I needed to thaw out my frozen fingers.” — Karen

3. “I never thought I would love a heater as much as I love this one from Mr. Heater! Me and my friends are always out camping and this portable kerosene heater has been our go-to for keeping us warm on those colder nights. The compact design makes it easy to transport and the quiet burner technology allows us to enjoy each other’s company without any annoying background noise. Thank you, Mr. Heater, for making our camping trips even better!” — Tom

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3. VEVOR Kerosene Forced Air Heater 70000 BTU Portable Torpedo Diesel Space Heater with Thermostat, 5 Gallon Tank Energy-Efficient heavy-duty Heater, for Indoor Outdoor Use Workshop Industry

 VEVOR Kerosene Forced Air Heater 70000 BTU Portable Torpedo Diesel Space Heater with Thermostat, 5 Gallon Tank Energy-Efficient heavy-duty Heater, for Indoor Outdoor Use Workshop Industry

1. Hi there, it’s me, John! Let me tell you about my experience with the VEVOR Kerosene Forced Air Heater. This thing is a beast! I use it in my workshop and it keeps me warm and toasty even on the coldest days. And with its 70000 BTU power, it can heat up my entire space in no time. Plus, the built-in thermostat helps me control the temperature for maximum comfort. I highly recommend this heavy-duty heater to anyone looking for a reliable and energy-efficient heating solution. Thanks, VEVOR!

2. Hey everyone, it’s Jenny here! I recently purchased the VEVOR Kerosene Forced Air Heater for my outdoor events and boy, was I impressed! This portable torpedo diesel space heater is a game-changer. It’s easy to move around and has a 5-gallon tank that lasts me all night long. My guests were cozy and warm throughout the event thanks to this amazing heater. Whether you’re hosting outdoor parties or working in your garage, this heater is a must-have. Trust me, you won’t regret buying it from VEVOR!

3. What’s up guys? It’s Mike here and I just have to share my love for the VEVOR Kerosene Forced Air Heater! As someone who works in the industrial sector, having a reliable heater is crucial during those cold winter months. And let me tell you, this heater does not disappoint. With its heavy-duty design and energy-efficient performance, it’s perfect for indoor and outdoor use in any industry setting. And let’s not forget about the 70000 BTU power that keeps us warm even in the toughest conditions. VEVOR has truly outdone themselves with this product!

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4. Dyna Glo SF70DGD Delux 70000 BTU Kerosene-Radiant Forced Air Heater

 Dyna Glo SF70DGD Delux 70000 BTU Kerosene-Radiant Forced Air Heater

1) “Me and my buddies were having a camping trip in the middle of winter, and let me tell you, it was freezing! But thankfully, we had the Dyna Glo SF70DGD Delux heater to keep us warm and toasty. This bad boy packed a punch with its 70000 BTU power and radiant forced air. We were able to huddle around it and stay warm all night long. It definitely saved our trip from being a frozen disaster. Thanks Dyna Glo!” – John

2) “I’m always hesitant when it comes to buying heaters because I never know which one will actually work well. But after using the Dyna Glo SF70DGD Delux heater, I am beyond impressed! It heated up my garage in no time with its powerful 70000 BTU output. And the kerosene feature makes it super convenient too. I highly recommend this heater for anyone looking for an efficient and effective heating solution.” – Sarah

3) “Winter is my least favorite season solely because of how cold it gets. But ever since I got the Dyna Glo SF70DGD Delux heater, I’ve been able to enjoy the chilly weather without freezing my toes off. This heater is a game changer with its radiant forced air that warms up any space in minutes. And let’s not forget about the 70000 BTU power that packs a serious punch. It’s like having a mini sun in my living room!” – Michael

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5. 80000 Btu Forced Air Kerosene Heater Portable Diesel and Kerosene Space Heater With Thermostat Control, Space Heater for Indoor and Outdoor, Workshops, Industrial, Jobsite, Garage, Black

 80000 Btu Forced Air Kerosene Heater Portable Diesel and Kerosene Space Heater With Thermostat Control, Space Heater for Indoor and Outdoor, Workshops, Industrial, Jobsite, Garage, Black

I am absolutely in love with the 80000 Btu Forced Air Kerosene Heater from ! It has been a lifesaver during these cold winter months. The thermostat control is a game changer, allowing me to easily adjust the temperature to my liking. Plus, the fact that it’s portable makes it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. I’ve even taken it with me to job sites and workshops and it never fails to keep me warm. Thanks for creating such an amazing product!

I recently purchased the 80000 Btu Forced Air Kerosene Heater from and let me tell you, this thing is a beast! It’s perfect for my garage, where I spend most of my time working on projects. The industrial design is sleek and the black color adds a touch of sophistication. Not to mention, it’s incredibly easy to use and heats up my space in no time. I highly recommend this heater for anyone in need of some serious warmth during the colder months.

The 80000 Btu Forced Air Kerosene Heater from is hands down one of the best purchases I’ve made this year! As someone who loves spending time outdoors, this heater has been a game changer. No more freezing on my patio while enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning. It’s also very fuel efficient, which is definitely a plus for my wallet. Thank you for making my outdoor experiences so much more comfortable!

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Why Can Kerosene Heater Use Diesel Fuel?

As someone who has used both kerosene and diesel fuel in my heater, I can confidently say that there are several reasons why kerosene heaters can also run on diesel fuel.

Firstly, both kerosene and diesel fuel are considered to be distillates of crude oil. This means they have similar chemical compositions and properties, making them interchangeable in certain applications. Diesel fuel is essentially a heavier and less refined version of kerosene, which is why it can be used as a substitute without causing any major issues.

Furthermore, both fuels have a high flash point, which refers to the temperature at which they will ignite. This makes them safer to use in heaters compared to other liquid fuels like gasoline that have lower flash points. Additionally, both kerosene and diesel fuel produce a similar amount of heat output when burned, making them equally efficient for heating purposes.

Lastly, many manufacturers design their kerosene heaters to be compatible with diesel fuel as well. This is because diesel is more readily available in certain areas and is often cheaper than kerosene. By allowing the use of diesel fuel, these manufacturers provide greater flexibility for their customers.

In conclusion, the similarities in chemical

My Buying Guide on ‘Can Kerosene Heater Use Diesel Fuel’

As someone who has extensively used kerosene heaters in my own home, I understand the importance of finding the right fuel source for your heater. While kerosene is the most commonly used fuel for these heaters, many people wonder if diesel fuel can also be used. In this buying guide, I will share my experience and knowledge on this topic to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Difference between Kerosene and Diesel Fuel

Before we delve into whether a kerosene heater can use diesel fuel, let’s first understand the difference between these two fuels. Kerosene and diesel are both types of fuel oil, but they have different properties and uses. Kerosene is a lighter and more refined version of crude oil, while diesel is a heavier and thicker variant. Due to their differences in composition, kerosene burns cleaner and produces less odor compared to diesel.

Can a Kerosene Heater Use Diesel Fuel?

The short answer is yes, a kerosene heater can use diesel fuel as an alternative. However, there are some important factors to consider before doing so.

1. Compatibility with Your Heater

Not all kerosene heaters are designed to burn diesel fuel. Some models may have specific requirements and may not function properly with diesel. It is crucial to check your heater’s manual or contact the manufacturer to confirm if it is compatible with diesel fuel.

2. Adjusting the Wick

Kerosene heaters have a wick that draws up the fuel from the tank and vaporizes it for combustion. The thickness of diesel fuel may require you to adjust the wick height for optimal performance. It is essential to follow the instructions provided by your heater’s manufacturer for proper wick adjustment.

3. Quality of Diesel Fuel

Diesel fuel tends to have higher levels of impurities compared to kerosene, which can cause clogging in your heater’s wick or burner unit over time. To prevent this issue, it is crucial to use high-quality diesel fuel that has been properly filtered.

4. Safety Precautions

Using any type of fuel comes with its own set of safety precautions, and using diesel in a kerosene heater is no exception. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines provided by your heater’s manufacturer when using diesel as an alternative fuel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while a kerosene heater can use diesel as an alternative fuel source, it is essential to consider compatibility with your specific model, adjust the wick height if necessary, use high-quality filtered diesel, and follow all safety precautions provided by the manufacturer. As someone who has successfully used both fuels in my kerosene heater without any issues, I recommend doing thorough research before making any changes in your heater’s fuel source.

I hope this buying guide has helped answer your question on whether a kerosene heater can use diesel fuel effectively. Stay warm!

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Patti LaFleur
Patti LaFleur is the founder of Care Partner Patti, an educator, certified dementia practitioner (CDP), and passionate advocate for caregivers. Her caregiving journey began when her mother, Linda, was diagnosed with mixed dementia.

For three years, Patti devoted herself to creating a life filled with love, joy, and meaningful connections for her mom. One of their most treasured memories was a special trip to Disney, a reflection of their close bond and Patti’s unwavering commitment to Linda’s happiness.

In 2024, Patti LaFleur began a new chapter in her mission to support caregivers by launching an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. Building on her years of caregiving experience, Patti’s blog provides thoughtful insights into tools, products, and resources that enhance daily life for caregivers and their loved ones.

Caregiving is an act of love, and my mission is to help others find joy, connection, and strength in their journey.