Filtering the new type Diesel:

Since January 2011 it has been a legal requirement that diesel fuel sold within the UK must include Bioethanol, which is an organic fuel produced from cereals. Being organic it can result in microbial growth and it is also hygroscopic, which means that the fuel absorbs moisture, in much the same way as automobile brake fluid. This encourages condensation, acid and rusting in older steel fuel tanks, although rusting is not a problem in the more modern poly fuel tanks and, because they are bunded, they are subject to less temperature fluctuation so the problem of condensation is not so much of a problem. However there is still the possibility of some deposits of water and contaminants, and if the fuel is used in space heaters without proper filtering it could cause a number of problems.

There are four well known symptoms that indicate you may have this problem with your fuel storage:

1. The fuel will give off an odour like rotten eggs
2. The fuel will have a murky appearance, with slime or a matted sludge
3. The fuel can appear dark or khaki in colour
4. There could be corrosion of metal parts on the fuel tank, e.g. taps or valves

Where these problems occur, using a heavy-duty anti-static fast-flow funnel, with built-in filter technology, will ensure the fuel is clean and safe to use. Rogers Space Heaters recommends the "Mr Funnel" fuel filter which can purchased online from various suppliers.

Changes to Red Diesel:

On 1 January 2011, changes were made to red diesel. The changes made to the diesel, and the changes which users may need to make to their fuel stores are explained in this Farmers Weekly article

Fuels:

Oil-fired space heaters will burn kerosene, paraffin or diesel oil. The smallest heaters will perform best on kerosene. The viscosity of diesel oil is a little too thick for small heaters. On large heaters, 100000 BTU or greater, performance is equally good on either fuel. With the cost of diesel and kerosene being very similar, with the larger heaters, the fuel used, comes down to personal preference and/or convenience. In general paraffin tends to be rather expensive and is becoming difficult to obtain.

Ventilation:

Always be sure to have ventilation to the heated area to prevent a deficiency in the oxygen supply. To work correctly, oil and gas fired heaters must have oxygen. In an enclosed area, the oxygen becomes used up, this can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide which is very dangerous, and can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Space heaters should never be used in rooms or areas used for sleeping. If ventilation is difficult or not possible, electric space heaters offer the perfect alternative to oil or gas fired, they do not use up the oxygen or cause fumes.

Gas Hoses:

Many gas space heater users are a little confused over the gas hose date of manufacture and the implications of the regulations. All propane gas space heaters should be fitted with a gas hose clearly identified as being BS3212/1 or BS3212/2. The date of manufacture should also be clearly visible on the gas hose and has a recommended service life of 5 years from that date. Hoses must be secured to the appliance or regulator using ferrules that should be securely crimped. The worm screw type clips also known as Jubilee clips should not be used as gas leakage may occur, which would pose a safety danger. If users are in any doubt or have any concerns about these regulations or the use of flexible gas hoses please contact Rogers Space Heaters. We will be happy to help and/or advise.