Can You Use Vegetable Oil in a Kerosene Heater?
Kerosene heaters are a convenient and efficient way to warm a living space. However, they require kerosene fuel, which can be expensive and hard to locate. As such, many people have wondered if vegetable oil can be used as a fuel substitute.
The Potential Dangers of Using Vegetable Oil
Though vegetable oil may seem like a cost-effective and practical substitution, it is important to note that it carries a risk of accidentally setting a fire. On top of that, since the viscosity of vegetable oil is higher than that of regular kerosene, it may be difficult to keep the wick from clogging.
Overview of Appropriate Alternatives
If you are looking for a good fuel substitute for your kerosene heater, there are a few safer options you can consider:
- Biofuel: While somewhat pricier than kerosene, this renewable fuel is made from biomass sources, such as vegetable oil, used cooking oil, and waste greases and is more advanced than regular kerosene.
- Lamp Oil: This type of oil is specifically designed to be used in oil lamps and is usually made from petroleum distillates.
- Paraffin Oil: Commonly referred to as kerosene, paraffin is a by-product of the oil-refining process – it is cheap, readily available, and burns up to 75% cleaner than regular kerosene.
Conclusion
Though you may be tempted to use vegetable oil as an inexpensive fuel substitute for your kerosene heater, the risks associated with it may outweigh any potential savings. Therefore, it is best to avoid this option and opt for a safer, approved alternative such as biofuel, lamp oil, or paraffin oil.
