On a winter morning, before you switch on your kerosene fan heater, are you planning to use the kerosene left over from last year? Checking your heating equipment before the first cold day is easier than rushing to do it after you've already tried to ignite it. Start by checking the condition of your kerosene and the appliance itself to perform a safe test run.
There are five things to check first. Do not leave old kerosene in the unit, clean the air intake, check the fuel tank cap and for leaks, clear the area and ensure ventilation, and conduct a short test run. If you notice anything unusual, stop using the unit and follow the instructions in the manual for inspection.
1. Do not use last year's kerosene
Kerosene that has degraded during storage, or contains water or debris, can cause ignition failure or unpleasant odors. Check not only your storage tank but also the kerosene remaining in the appliance's fuel tank and inside the unit itself. Consult your retailer or local government regarding the disposal of old kerosene, and follow the product manual for instructions on how to clear the unit's tank. No additive can restore degraded kerosene to its original quality. Please also check the criteria for using kerosene from last year.
2. Check the air filter and power supply
Check the air intake filter on the back for dust and clean it according to the instruction manual. Also, check the power cord and plug for any damage or irregularities. If you use an air conditioner, cleaning the filter and running a test now will save you from a last-minute scramble when it gets cold.
3. Check the fuel tank cap and for leaks
Always extinguish the heater before refueling. Make sure the tank cap closes securely and check for any kerosene leaks before returning it to the main unit. Ensure that no flammable materials, such as cloth or paper, are placed near the appliance.
4. Clear the area and ensure you can ventilate
Keep flammable items like curtains and clothing away from the heater. Also, verify that windows or vents are available for proper ventilation.
5. Perform a test run with fresh kerosene
Add fresh kerosene and ignite the unit according to the manual. Be sure to ventilate regularly when using kerosene heaters. If it does not ignite, stops mid-operation, or emits strong odors or persistent white smoke, stop using the unit and investigate the cause.
If you experience these symptoms, please also refer to our guides on what to do if your kerosene fan heater won't ignite or stops working and causes and solutions for odors and white smoke.
GERHON for kerosene to use after inspection
Once you have finished your inspection and confirmed that the heater is working properly with fresh kerosene, you have the option of using GERHON Fuel Conditioning for kerosene. The recommended usage is 0.5 mL per liter of kerosene (9 mL for 18 liters). Please confirm the intended use and usage instructions for the product before applying it. This product is not intended for repairing faulty equipment or regenerating degraded kerosene.
View product details and usage for GERHON for kerosene →
For information on measuring for 18 liters and single-use guidelines, please see our guide: How many mL for 18 liters of kerosene? An explanation of usage.
Pre-heating season checklist
- Is there any kerosene left over from last season?
- Are the air filter and power cord in good condition?
- Does the fuel tank cap close securely, and are there any leaks?
- Is the area free of flammable items, and is ventilation possible?
- Does it ignite and run normally with fresh kerosene?
Inspection and cleaning methods vary by model. Please prioritize the instruction manual for your specific model and the manufacturer's guidance. If you notice any irregularities, stop operation and consult your retailer or the manufacturer.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I have last year's kerosene left, can I add GERHON and use it?
No. Adding this product to kerosene that is suspected to be degraded or contaminated will not restore it to its original state. Use fresh kerosene and follow the appliance manual and retailer's guidance for handling leftover fuel.
What if there is an odor or white smoke during the first ignition?
Stop the unit, ventilate the area, and check the condition of the kerosene and the appliance. If the problem persists, do not use the unit and consult the manufacturer or retailer. We have also compiled a list of items to check regarding odors and white smoke.
What can GERHON for kerosene be used for?
It is for continuous fuel conditioning in kerosene stoves, kerosene fan heaters, and compatible kerosene boilers using normal kerosene. Do not use it in kerosene boilers without a thermostat. The dosage is 0.5 mL per 1 liter of kerosene.
Reference: Corona Kerosene Heater Safety Guide. Please prioritize the instruction manual for your specific model.
Eye-catching photo: Morigen Ryokan 20200301-61.jpg / Enshuritsu 3 percent (CC BY-SA 4.0). Cropped to a square and resized. The processed photo is provided under the same license.
