How to Troubleshoot Your DuraHeat

DuraHeat heaters are kerosene heaters designed for use without a power source, and can be used in a variety of situations, including outdoors, in garages, camping or during power outages. Sold online and in select outdoor, camping or sporting supply stores, the heaters use a kerosene wick and a heavy gauge metal cabinet to help protect the unit from heat or damage. If owners have problems with the DuraHeat heater, some troubleshooting techniques may be useful.

Things You'll Need

  • I-K kerosene
  • Replacement wick (if necessary)
  • Sand (if necessary)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill the fuel tank with water clear "I-K" kerosene if the heater will not light or heat. Remove the battery compartment and replace the batteries if necessary.

    • 2

      Drain the tank if there is water present in the kerosene and the heater won't light. Remove the wick assembly and replace with a new wick. Replace the wick assembly in the unit and fill the tank with "I-K" kerosene, available at many outdoor supply stores.

    • 3

      Turn the wick adjuster knob until the igniter plug is able to make contact with the wick top.

    • 4

      Adjust the wick adjuster knob so that the wick is approximately ½-inch high if the flame seems too high. If the burner is not level, turn the burner knob from side to side to position the burner evenly over the wick.

    • 5

      Move the heater out of any air drafts if the heater is smoking or has a bad odor. Remove the current wick and replace it with a new one if there is dirty kerosene or water in the kerosene.

    • 6

      Push down on the safety reset lever if the wick will not rise up. Turn the adjuster knob to lift up the wick.

    • 7

      Pour sand or use a fire extinguisher if the heater is caught in flames. If necessary, throw blankets on the heater and then pour water on the blankets, but do not throw water directly on the heater.