A kerosene heater is another form of portable space heater that is unvented and runs on kerosene. This heater produces 11000 to 23000 BTU (British thermal unit) per hour or 3.3 to 6.8 kilowatts. It does not require electricity, although most models contain a battery-operated piezo-electric igniter that will light the heater without the use of matches.

In a kerosene heater, a circular wick made of fiberglass is incorporated into a burner unit above a tank filled with 1-K kerosene. Through capillary action, the wick derives kerosene from the tank. When the wick is lit, it emits flames into the burner unit. The air is then heated through convection or radiation. Proper oxygenation and distribution of flames is controlled by the burner.

The height of the flame can be controlled by an adjusting mechanism that raises or lowers the height of the exposed wick inside the burner unit. To extinguish the heater, retract the wick into a cavity below the burner.

Like any other household appliance, a kerosene heater also poses risks and dangers. Because it involves the use of heat and fire, extra precaution is required to avoid the following:

• Air pollution

Kerosene heaters emit pollutants such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and sulphur dioxide. Inhalation of these pollutants can harm children, elderly, pregnant women, and people with respiratory or cardiovascular diseases.

• Asphyxiation

Oxygen is consumed as kerosene heaters burn. Operating unvented heaters in small area or places that do not have adequate ventilation can reduce oxygen level. This means fuel would be incompletely combusted, which results in carbon monoxide. Inhalation of carbon monoxide can cause dizziness, nausea, fainting, and in worse cases, death. Do not use heaters designed to heat large rooms in small ones.

• Burns

Direct contact with the heater while it is operating or hot can cause burns. Children, pets, and combustible materials such as clothing should be kept a safe distance away from the heater. Do not attempt to move a lighter kerosene heater. Extinguish the flame and wait for it to cool before moving it.

• Fires and/or explosions

Running the kerosene heater close to furniture, rugs, carpets, or any other combustible or flammable object can cause fires. Using fuel other than 1-K grade kerosene and operating the heater near fumes or fuel can lead to explosions. If kerosene spills, clean it up right away.

Never use gasoline or camp stove fuel as alternatives to 1-K kerosene. Similarly, be careful not to mix gasoline or kerosene—or even their containers.

Refuel the heater outdoors and only if it has cooled down. During refueling, do fill the tank to the brim. When the kerosene heats, it expands. Overfilling can cause spillage.

Most importantly, never leave the kerosene heater burning and unattended. Extinguish it if you are leaving the area or if you will go to sleep.

Carefully read and follow the instructions for the maintenance and usage of the kerosene heater from the manufacturer’s manual to ensure the safety of the household and yours.