As a specialist in the field of energy and combustion systems, I've been working with various types of fuels and heating devices for many years. It's a complex subject, and I'm always eager to share my knowledge with those who are interested.

When it comes to burning diesel in a kerosene heater, there are several factors to consider.
Diesel and kerosene are both types of hydrocarbon fuels, but they have different properties that make them suitable for different applications.
Kerosene heaters are designed to burn kerosene, which is a light petroleum distillate. It has a lower flash point and a narrower range of flammability compared to diesel.

Diesel, on the other hand, is a heavier fuel oil that is typically used in diesel engines. It has a higher flash point and a wider range of flammability. This means that diesel can be more challenging to ignite and maintain a stable burn compared to kerosene.

The use of Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) in a kerosene heater is a topic that requires careful consideration. While ULSD does burn cleaner than regular diesel, it is still not the ideal fuel for a kerosene heater due to its different chemical composition and physical properties.

One of the main concerns with using diesel in a kerosene heater is the potential for clogging. Kerosene heaters operate on a wick system, which is designed to draw up a specific type and viscosity of fuel. Diesel is thicker and has a higher viscosity than kerosene, which can lead to the wick becoming clogged and the heater not functioning properly.

To mitigate this issue, some suggest using additives.
Injector cleaner is one such additive that can help to reduce the viscosity of diesel and make it more similar to kerosene. This can potentially allow the diesel to be used in a kerosene heater without clogging the wick. Another additive that has been mentioned is isopropyl alcohol, which can also help to thin the fuel and prevent clogging.

However, it's important to note that using additives is not a guaranteed solution. The effectiveness of these additives can vary, and they may not work in all situations. Additionally, using additives can potentially void the warranty of the heater and may lead to other maintenance issues down the line.

Furthermore, the combustion characteristics of diesel are different from kerosene. Diesel has a higher carbon content, which can lead to soot and smoke production when burned. This can be a concern for both the efficiency of the heater and the air quality in the area where it is being used.

In conclusion, while it may be technically possible to burn ULSD in a kerosene heater with the use of certain additives, it is not recommended due to the potential for clogging, reduced efficiency, and increased maintenance. It's always best to use the fuel for which the heater was specifically designed to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the device.

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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.Nov 24, 2014read more >>