Black smoke coming kerosene - Corona 23-DK Compact Heater

Hi dear,

First of all make sure that the heater is filled with K-1 Kerosene. Other fuel, such as gasoline, home heating oil, etc. do not burn hot, causing the heater to burn out of control. NEVER USE GASOLINE or any other fuel described as flammable. If there is any question about the fuel in your heater it is best to drain it and replace the wick and start with fresh K-1 Kerosene. If you are sure of your kerosene and your heater is giving off sooty black smoke it is a sign that the fuel/air mix is off. Make sure your heater is not in a draft. Too much air can create a very high flame condition. Avoid placing the heater in drafty areas or under a ceiling fan. Make sure the burner chimney is seated correctly. If the burner chimney didn't seat into place correctly after lighting you may be getting a very high flame on one side. If it's a high orange flame all the way around try rolling the wick adjuster knob down within the adjustment range - the wick may just be raised too high. If these things do not fix the problem wait until the heater is cool and inspect the burner cylinder. If there are any holes plugged with soot it needs to be cleaned, or if it's dented or buckled it needs to be replaced. After you have checked the fuel and burner you should check to make sure the wick is installed at the correct height. Refer to the owner's manual for exact wick height. If the wick is installed correctly and there is no other obvious defect it is best to take the heater to a service center to determine the cause. Our Find a Retailer tool can be used to help find a servicing center.