As a heating appliance specialist with years of experience in the industry, I'm often asked about the compatibility of fuels for various types of heaters. It's a critical question that requires careful consideration to ensure both the safety and efficiency of your heating system.

First and foremost, it's important to understand that diesel fuel and kerosene are not the same thing, and they have different properties that make them suitable for different applications. Diesel fuel is designed for use in diesel engines, which operate under high compression and require a fuel that can ignite at high temperatures. Kerosene, on the other hand, is a type of fuel oil that is typically used in heaters and jet engines. It has a lower flash point and is less volatile than diesel fuel.

Now, let's discuss the use of Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) in a kerosene heater. ULSD is a type of diesel fuel that has had the sulfur content significantly reduced, making it cleaner burning and more environmentally friendly. While it's true that ULSD can be used in a kerosene heater, it's not as straightforward as simply pouring it in. The reason for this is that ULSD has a different viscosity and combustion characteristics compared to kerosene.

The viscosity of ULSD is generally lower than that of kerosene, which can affect the operation of the heater. If the fuel is too thin, it may not vaporize properly in the heater, leading to incomplete combustion and potentially clogging the wick or other components of the heater. This is where additives come into play.

Injector cleaner is one such additive that can be used to help clean the fuel lines and injectors in diesel engines, but its use in a kerosene heater is not recommended for the purpose of adjusting viscosity or combustion properties. Injector cleaners are designed to remove deposits and are not formulated to alter the physical properties of the fuel for use in heaters.

Isopropyl alcohol, or isopropanol, is another substance that is sometimes suggested as an additive. It is a solvent with a lower flash point than ULSD and can help to thin the fuel, which might seem like a solution to the viscosity issue. However, adding isopropyl alcohol to ULSD for use in a kerosene heater is not advisable. The alcohol can cause the heater to operate outside of its designed parameters, potentially leading to safety hazards and damage to the heater.

The key to using ULSD in a kerosene heater safely and effectively is to ensure that the fuel meets the viscosity and combustion requirements of the heater. This may involve using a fuel stabilizer or other additives specifically designed for this purpose. It's also crucial to consult the heater's manual or contact the manufacturer for guidance on what additives, if any, are approved for use with ULSD.

In conclusion, while it is possible to use ULSD in a kerosene heater with the right additives and precautions, it is not a simple process and should not be undertaken without proper knowledge and understanding. Always prioritize safety and the longevity of your heating appliance by following the manufacturer's recommendations and using the correct fuel and additives.

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Ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) can be used in a kerosene heater if you use certain additives. One additive is injector cleaner and another one is isopropal alcohol. ... Today's Ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) does burn clean but you need to use additives in the diesel, so the wick in the kerosene heater does not clog.Dec 17, 2014read more >>