What’s the importance of a heater? One should not overlook the discomfort and potential risks associated with the freezing conditions of winter. Based on a 2015 study from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, cold weather presents 20 times the danger compared to warm weather.
Among the common, yet preventable causes of death in the cold regions is exposed to low temperatures due to improper heating. One of the inexpensive ways to stay warm indoors is using a non-electric dependable heater to warm up your premises.
So, acquiring the best kerosene heater, especially if you live in areas with frequent power outages or natural disasters is a brilliant idea. Still, there are numerous different models to choose from. However, in this review, we take in the top 10 best kerosene heaters for indoor use.
Top 10 Best Kerosene Heaters of 2023 (Reviews)
1. Dyna-Glo RMC-95C6B Indoor Kerosene Convection Heater
The Dyna-Glo RMC-95C6B heats up quickly and has a wide-angle heat distribution. An ideal option for anyone looking for a kerosene heater to warm up their zones during a power outage.
The Dyna-Glo RMC-95C6B is easy to operate, has automatic ignition, and comes with both automatic and manual safety shut-off. Meaning, in case of the unit tips over, it automatically shuts off, thus preventing the flame from spreading, which reduces the risk of fire accidents.
This kerosene heater releases 23,000 BTUs of heat which it distributes in a 360° radius. Additionally, it burns with 99.9% efficiency, heating up to 1,000 square feet space. When the tank is full, the Dyna-Glo RMC-95C6B can run up to 11 hours before another refill.
It includes a siphon pump and 2 C-cell batteries that provide sufficient energy to light up the wick. Nevertheless, you can kindle it manually.
Dyna-Glo RMC-95C6B is a UL-certified heater, measures 17.5 x 17.5 x 27 inches, weighs 23.1 pounds, and comes with a 1.9-gallon fuel tank capacity, so you can easily move it within your house. Plus, it comes with a 1-year limited warranty. No wonder it is the ideal choice for most homeowners and garage operators.
Pros
Safe heating.
Features a tip-over feature and a shut-off knob.
Automatic fast-start ignition.
360° convection heating system.
One-touch shut-off.° convection heating system.
Wraparound safety grill.
One-touch shut-off.
Cons
A few users complained of struggling to assemble the unit.
2. Dura Heat EUH1465 Pivoting Base
The Dura Heat DH2304S has a long-lasting structure and high BTU output. it is a great pick for people who wants a small, powerful indoor heater that also functions as a light source.
The Dura Heat DH2304S is relatively small, but powerful, and highly portable compared to other top-rated indoor kerosene heaters. This potent heater produces 23,800 BTUs of heat in a 360° radius, so it can heat everything around it. Place it at the center of your room and it will warm it in 10-15 minutes.
It also produces both light and heat simultaneously for up to 12 hours on one tank of kerosene, thanks to its 1.9-gallon fuel capacity. Additionally, the Dura Heat DH2304S has a long shelf-life, meaning it will not last for weeks or months, but decades. For the safety of the user, it is surrounded with a protective grill. A drip tray is fixed at the bottom to collect any leaked fuel and it has an auto-shutoff functionality.
Measuring 17.5 x 17.5 x 26.8 inches, this 27.6-pound portable kerosene heater can be used in non-airtight outbuildings such as garages and barns. Its suitability is further increased by the new no-lift heat chamber design which reduces startup odor when igniting, effectively reducing kerosene smell. This is a fantastic choice for emergencies and winter power outages.
Pros
Long shelf-life.
Powerful; radiates potent heat for hours.
Safely caged to prevent accidents.
Multifunctional; produces heat and light.
Cons
Although it`s an awesome indoor heater, it still requires adequate ventilation.
3. Sengoku KeroHeat 23,500-BTU Indoor/Outdoor Portable Kerosene Heater
We love that the Sengoku KeroHeat CV-23K doesn’t emit unpleasant smells apart from a rarely detectable kerosene odor that dispels after a few minutes of use. Since it can heat rooms with cathedral ceilings, this unit is recommended for large rooms and hard-to-heat spaces.
For 6 decades, Sengoku has provided us with alternative heating products. And now, these industry leaders have decided to produce a simple, yet efficient kerosene heater for indoor use the Sengoku KeroHeat CV-23K.
The Sengoku KeroHeat CV-23K measures 18.5 x 18.5 x 25.5 inches and weighs 22 pounds. It provides 23,500 BTUs of heat for up to 900 square feet and has a fuel capacity of 1.9 gallons. This indoor heater produces consistent warmth for up to 12 hours and won’t take much space in your home.
This indoor kerosene heater features an automatic igniter for quick, push-button startups. Moreover, it hosts several safety features, including a safety grill to protect you and your family from the heating area. It also has a shut-off feature that automatically turns off the kerosene heater if it overheats, runs out of fuel, or tips over. Into the bargain, it includes 2D batteries, a fuel gauge, and a fuel pump.
Pros
Simple to operate.
Radiates heat that covers a large area quickly.
Radiates heat that covers a large area quickly.
Portable; can be moved around easily.
Cons
Doesn`t come with a wick.
4. Dr.fasting Electric Plug-in Personal Heating Instant Wall Heater
The DH2304 has a durable, rugged steel frame and a user-friendly design. With a 23,800-BTU heat output, this indoor heater can be an ideal heat back up for emergency power cuts.
This model (DH2304) by Dr.fasting features a 23,800-BTU output, a 1.9-gallon fuel capacity, and can operate for up to 12 hours. Measuring 18.8 x 18.8 x 27 inches, this 27.3-pound kerosene heater can warm up to 1,000 square feet space. It also provides consistent heat in a 360° radius, distributing warmth in all directions, so you will enjoy optimum coverage all over your space.
This indoor kerosene heater consists of stainless steel hardware, auto-shutoff function, and an adjustable thermostat. It also features a drip tray that prevents kerosene from leaking into your room.
Note that the metal cage that surrounds the heater stops users from touching the heat source directly, while the auto-shutoff turns off the unit in case it tips over. The DH2304 automatic lighting system uses 2 C-cell batteries, but it can as well be ignited with a match.
Pros
Easy to set up.
Operates silently.
Runs for about 12 hours on 1.9 gallons of kerosene.
Portable heater with handle.
Cons
A few users complained they had to wait about 20 minutes to get a balanced flame the first time they used it.
5. Sengoku HeatMate 10,000-BTU Portable Omni-Radiant Kerosene Heater
Uses relatively less kerosene to provide consistent heat for long hours. Ideal for people looking for a portable heater to warm their small room or cabin.
The Sengoku HeatMate OR-77 kerosene heater is economical to operate and easy to use. This model is designated for emergency heating or zonal heating. It heats up to 380 square feet of space. This Omni-radiant 10,000-BTU heater measures 15.5 x 15 x 22 inches and weighs 20.3 pounds. It has a 1.2-gallon tank that will heat your house for up to 14 hours on one fill!
This compact and lightweight kerosene heater feature automatic shut-off, protective safety grills, EZ flame adjuster, and easy push start button. The Sengoku HeatMate OR-77 also includes a siphon pump, batteries, and an easy-to-read fuel gauge.
It has a tip-over switch, and a newly designed burner ensures proper performance and protection from wind. For these reasons, this heater is ideal for use indoors, in garages, hard to heat spaces and poorly insulated buildings.
Pros
Stress-free push ignition button.
Tip-over protection and auto shut-off make it ideal for homes with children.
Designed to be sheltered from the wind, so it can be used outdoors.
Heats designated spaces quickly and powerfully.
Easy-to-read fuel gauge.
2-year limited warranty.
Cons
Users cannot adjust the height of the wick, making it difficult to heat larger spaces.
6. Kero World KW-24G 23,000-BTU Indoor Portable Convection Kerosene Heater
Although rated to release a similar quantity of heat as competing units, the KW-24G distributes warmth over a wide area. This heater is a great buy if you are looking for a functional kerosene heater to add to your large house.
The KW-24G produces about 23,000 BTUs of heat which can heat up to 1,000 square feet in a conventional style. This portable kerosene heater weighs 20 pounds and measures 18 x 18 x 22.2 inches. It has a long-lasting built-in 1.9-gallon tank that enables it to run consistently for up to 12 hours. It is fuel-efficient and cost-effective compared to most competing products.
This heater warms spaces quickly, you will get warmed up within a few minutes of running it. Moreover, it features an easy-to-use matchless ignition. Thankfully, the 2 C batteries you’ll need to ignite the heater are contained within the package.
For safety, the KW-24G is enclosed in a 360° protective grill, so you and your household will be shielded from getting into direct contact with heat. It will also switch off if someone knocks it over.
According to most users, this heater can be assembled quickly, provided you follow the attached instructions. As mentioned, the KW-24G is portable. For this reason, you can move it downstairs or upstairs without too much stress. Aside from that, you are granted a 2-year limited warranty in case errors occur in use.
Pros
Easy start/shut-off.
Easy start/shut-off.
2 C batteries included.
2-year warranty.
Cons
Loosely attached the handle.
7. Dyna-Glo KFA50DGD 50,000-BTU Kerosene Forced Air Heater
We love that the Dyna-Glo KFA50DGD operates with 2 fuels (either diesel or kerosene) to warm up to 1,200 square feet. This kerosene heater is an attractive choice if you are looking for a powerful heater to warm a large building or an indoor construction site.
The Dyna-Glo KFA50DGD is a reliable and powerful heater capable of producing 50,000 BTUs of heat to warm up to 1,200 square feet of space. Moreover, it is CSA-approved for multi-fuel use with K1-kerosene and diesel. Thanks to its high-powered blower, it is suitable for use in large spaces such as large rooms.
This 11.7 x 32 x 16.7 inches heater is portable enough to be moved around. Furthermore, it brags of a rugged, sturdy construction, and an easy to lift built-in carrying handle.
This 98% fuel-efficient heater boasts of a 5-gallon fuel tank and can heat up your large space for up to 14 hours. For safety, the Dyna-Glo KFA50DGD includes a flameout sensor, overheat protection mechanism, and an auto fuel shut-off protection. It features an electric ignition system and weights 26.9 pounds.
Pros
Multi-fuel use; operates with kerosene or diesel.
Easy to move around.
Auto shut-off; switches off if it overheats.
Features a fuel consumption gauge.
Secondary power source cord.
An aluminum cover protects the motor.
Cons
Takes a while to attain optimum heat.
8. Sengoku KeroHeat 10,000-BTU Portable Radiant Kerosene Heater
We genuinely admire the craft and quality of materials used in this unit. This unit is a valuable kerosene heater suitable for warming your office space or a single room in your house.
Sengoku KeroHeat CTN-110 is one of the top-ranked small capacity radiant heaters. This kerosene heater can produce up to 10,000 BTUs of heat. It features a fuel tank capacity of 1.2 gallons and can consistently warm up to 380 square feet of your space for about 14 hours, making it a suitable heater to warm distinct zones in your home.
This 20 x 12 x 19 inches, 20-pound kerosene heater has a well-engineered design. For convenience, it has EZ flame adjuster for custom performance and an automatic igniter that needs batteries to operate, which is no big deal as this unit includes the required 4 C batteries in the package. Also included is a manual siphon pump for quick movement of kerosene to the heater.
To prevent fire accidents, the Sengoku KeroHeat CTN-110 incorporates a number of safety features; a tip over feature and an automatic shut-off switch lower the danger of accidental fires in your home. It also has a safety protection wire guard to prevent materials from coming into direct contact with the flame.
Pros
Works for long; up to 14 hours runtime.
Durable and lightweight.
Automatic ignition.
UL-approved.
Cons
Some users complained of kerosene smell at the initial moments of igniting, which fades away with the slightest room ventilation.
9. World Marketing of America KW-12 Kero-World Compact Kerosene Wick Heater
So far, it is one of the smallest, exceptionally portable heater you can use straight off the shelf. Moreover, we’ve reviewed several brands, and some require an elaborate setup to work, but not the KW-12 Kero-World.
World Marketing of America KW-12 produces up to 10,500 BTUs of heat. The Sure Seat Chimney System filters fume to generate comforting radiant heat. The 1.1-gallon fuel tank can warm up to 450 square feet of your space for about 15 hours.
Generally, it is easy to install this compact, cost-effective, convention-style kerosene heater. Weighing only 12 pounds and measuring 12.8 x 12.8 x 21.8 inches, this kerosene heater is particularly portable. As a result, you can move with it from room to room.
As far as safety is concerned, this unit features an auto shut-off valve in case of tipping. Furthermore, the heating area is enclosed in a safety cage to prevent direct contact with the flame.
Pros
Portable and compact design.
10,500 BTUs of radiant heat.
Operates without electricity.
Operates without electricity.
Operates without electricity.
Cons
A few customers found the wick adjuster less robust.
10. Dyna-Glo RMC-55R7 Indoor Kerosene Radiant Heater
The Dyna-Glo RMC-55R7 is safe to use a powerful heater that features a functioning automatic ignition system. If you want a relatively inexpensive heater to warm your average-sized room daily, this is a great option.
The easy to operate Dyna-Glo RMC-55R7 is one of the ideal brands for warming spaces up to 500 square feet. This kerosene heater can heat up small to medium-sized houses for up to 13 hours. Still, it burns with 99% efficiency.
This portable kerosene heater weighs 20.9 pounds and measures 22.3 x 11.9 x 19.3 inches. It comprises a built-in auto shut-off switch which prevents the flow of kerosene to the burner in case the heater is knocked down, lowering the dangers associated with accidental fires.
For ease of operation, the Dyna-Glo RMC-55R7 features a 1-touch ignition, and a 1-touch extinguish mechanism. Consequently, you don’t need matchsticks to light it. It also has an easy-to-read gauge, a fuel tank that lifts out effortlessly, and comes with an electric siphon pump to draw the kerosene quickly.
Even more, unlike competing units with similar features, this unit is more affordable. Apart from that, many users commend this product for its impressive structure, quality materials, and safety features safety grill, cool top, and rarely malfunctions or breaks down.
Pros
Economical; cuts power bills by heating up only the intended areas.
Easy to use auto-ignition system.
Tip-over safety switch.
1-touch shut-off.
UL-certified.
Cons
Some users found this unit less efficient for their cathedral-ceiling homes.
Buying Guide for Kerosene Heater
What do you want from a heater? In this guide, we’ll be looking at what you should consider before buying a kerosene heater for indoor use.
Safety Features
Like any heating appliance, the key thing you have to think through is safety. To save your skin, always confirm that the manufacturer has observed the standard safety measures. Among the safety features include a shut-off switch, a safety grill, and an operational wick-stopping apparatus.
Type of Kerosene Heater
There are 2 types of kerosene heaters: convection and radiant. Convection heaters are built to be round, which allows them to warm up the surrounding area. On the other hand, radiant heaters feature a wide heating range, making them ideal for heating large indoor spaces.
Ease of Fueling and Tank Capacity
Refueling can be a time-consuming process, considering you’ll be required to wait for your unit to cool down before refilling it. So, make sure that your indoor kerosene heater is easy to fuel. Also, reflect on how long a full tank will last before needing to refuel. Based on this, it is ideal to choose a kerosene heater that can hold enough fuel to warm up your space for as long as you want.
Price
Similar to any product on the market, the price range of indoor kerosene heaters varies from quite inexpensive to pricey units. As a result, it is utterly important to know what you are looking for in a kerosene heater and if it is worth the price tag. A rule of thumb is to set a budget to guide your expenditure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I buy an indoor kerosene heater?
Indoor kerosene heaters can be used to effectively warm up parts of a home that aren’t easy to warm. A kerosene heater can also be used to heat a single room after shutting down the thermostat. Most importantly, kerosene heaters are an ideal backup for power cuts and can be used to thaw frozen pipes.
Which type of kerosene should I use?
K-1 kerosene is the only fuel accepted for indoor kerosene heaters. The use of synthetic oils is prohibited. Over and above, low-quality fuels or other fuels may cause some heating problems. It is important to know that packaged K-1 kerosene has an extended shelf life than fuel drawn from pumps.
Why won’t my kerosene heater light?
In case it is the first time you are using your kerosene heater, ensure it is filled with high-quality kerosene and that the wick is left to dampen for about 1 hour.
Also, check the position of the igniter and the wick, they may be placed inaccurately. The igniter should be located directly above the wick. On the other hand, if the igniter isn’t radiating an orange light, check the batteries for replacement.
What is the cause of bad odor?
The bad odor often occurs as a result of using low-quality kerosene. If your fuel contains too much sulfur, it won’t be burned wholly in your kerosene heater. These unburnt particles accumulate on the wick and harden, resulting in odor problems as they struggle to burn.
Conclusion
As heating costs keep going up, kerosene remains one of the most significant, yet affordable, fuel used for heating indoor spaces. That’s why there are countless models and brands of kerosene heaters for indoor use. Unfortunately, this can make it a bit difficult to find the best kerosene heater to warm your space.
Thankfully, with the advancement of kerosene heaters, you no longer need to worry or depend on overpriced electric products to warm your home or garage. For instance, these 10 models we’ve reviewed are durable, efficient, and feature several safety systems.
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