In the case of an emergency power outage, one of the most critical issues is securing a heat source. Depending on the time of year and location, power outages can wreak havoc on residents who are stranded without any way to keep themselves and their loved ones warm. Thankfully, there are kerosene heaters, which don’t require any electricity and can provide heat until help arrives.
Depending on the kerosene heater, they can be used indoors or outdoors, with outdoor heaters being perfect for use in emergency situations or on job sites, including construction sites, home renovations, and while working on projects in the garage or yard. Available in a variety of sizes, kerosene heaters can heat small rooms, medium-sized garages, and even larger areas like construction sites.
Because kerosene heaters give off a strong smell, it’s essential to use them in highly ventilated areas, even when heaters are designed for indoor use.
If you’re looking for a heater system that can be used daily or in emergencies and doesn’t require any electricity, then you need a kerosene heater. Check out our three top picks below.
1. Dyna-Glo Forced Air Heater
Heat an impressive 4,200 square feet for up to 12 hours with the Dyna-Glo Forced Air Heater, which uses patented dual-heat technology and sure-fire igniter for a heater that is reliable and easy to use. The Dyna-Glo includes a thermostat that is always on, which helps to save fuel. It also comes with an LED-temperature indicator, tall ergonomic handles and 10-inch wheels that make it convenient to move around buildings and construction sites. We also like that the Dyna-Glo has a dual-source power cord that can be used to charge small electronics or tools.
Pros: The Dyna-Glo includes a large fuel gauge that clearly shows how much fuel is left at any given time.
Cons: The Dyna-Glo weights 58 pounds and is not as portable as the other two kerosene heaters on our list.
2. DeWalt Kerosene Heater
With a 75,000-BTU output and a six-gallon tank, the DeWalt Kerosene Heater is a great option for anyone who wants a portable heater that is still powerful enough to heat 1,750 square feet of space for up to 11 hours. Designed to be used in harsh environments, including construction sites, the DeWalt features recessed controls, which protects against damage while still being big enough to access even when wearing gloves.
Pros: The DeWalt weighs 39 pounds and has an ergonomic handle that makes it convenient to carry from one job site to the next.
Cons: The DeWalt has an open flame in the front and should be used primarily outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces inside.
3. Sengoku HeatMate Radiant Kerosene Heater
Stay warm in emergency situations for up to 14 hours with the Sengoku HeatMate Radiant Kerosene Heater, which has 10,000-BTU output that can easily keep 380 square feet of space warm. Designed for daily use in poorly heated rooms or in emergencies, the Sengoku includes several safety features that make it ideal for indoor use, including an automatic shut-off, an easy push-start, a flame adjuster, a protective grill and a tip-over switch that automatically shuts the heater off in the event that it falls over.
Pros: At 22.6 pounds, the Sengoku is the lightest heater on our list and the most portable. It is also the best suited to being used indoors in the event of a power failure when electricity is not available.
Cons: The Sengoku is not powerful enough to heat outdoor spaces. Although it’s rated for indoor use, it does still have a strong kerosene smell, and should be used only in well-ventilated spaces.