Gases such as nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide can accumulate at increased rates. Fuel Quality Fuel quality is a major problem with the kerosene heater. Many problems occur when diesel fuel, furnace fuel and even gasoline are used in the heaters. Kerosene is a complex fuel classified as a light to middle distillate. Although jet fuel, diesel fuel and Number 1 fuel oil are similar to pure kerosene, they are not as pure and are not appropriate for use in kerosene heaters as a way to save kerosene or money.
Some people buy reasonably good fuel, but store it in contaminated containers.
Contaminants from an impure product can cause the wick to gum or soot up with deposits. This can cause smoking and incomplete or improper combustion. Shop around for a good source of high quality kerosene. Don't use furnace, diesel or jet fuel. The energy content of kerosene typically ranges between 120,000 and 130,000 Btu per gallon.