A few years ago, kerosene was as cheap as white gas was. Many service stations had pumps for both of them in addition to diesel for auto motors in small communities for easy access. Kerosene was sold cheaper than the other fuels, costing only spending of 10-15 cents per gallon. We could only wish for that, but now the price of this fuel is 3-5 times more.
In this article, we will learn about kerosene stoves, how they work, their pros and cons, and their price ranges. Let us get right to the topic, do not linger!
How Kerosene Cooking Stove Works and What is Inside it?
The main character in these stoves is kerosene, which is a fuel source. There is a wick, which is composed of cotton and other porous material, that absorbs the kerosene in the stove and makes a flame. This flame is then used for cooking and boiling water on the stove’s surface. Some stoves also work on a pressure pump system that is used to pressurize the fuel tank and increase the heat output. In addition, some also have built-in ovens or grills for convenience. Overall, it is a simple way to cook food without any access to electricity.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Kerosene Stove
Pros
- They are portable because they are lightweight and compact.
- They can be kept in storage for a long time and have a long shelf life.
- Kerosene is readily available in most places, ensuring a constant fuel supply.
- These stoves allow you to control the flame, providing precise temperature management.
- Kerosene stoves deliver consistent, high heat, making them ideal for cooking various dishes.
- They can be used for boiling, simmering, and frying, catering to different cooking needs.
- Kerosene stoves are designed for stability, reducing the risk of spills.
- Kerosene is cost-effective, making it a budget-friendly choice for camp cooking.
- They are relatively low-maintenance and easy to clean.
- Cold Weather Reliability: Kerosene stoves perform well in cold weather, a crucial factor for campers in colder climates.
Cons
- Kerosene stoves can produce an initial odor when lit.
- It is a highly flammable hydrocarbon, posing a fire risk if not handled carefully.
- They may generate soot, which can accumulate on cookware and impact taste.
- Complex Ignition: Lighting a kerosene cooktop can be challenging for beginners.
- Some models can be noisy, which might disrupt the camping experience.
- Accidental fuel spills are possible during refilling or transport.
- Kerosene stoves must be used in well-ventilated areas to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup.
- Occasional maintenance is necessary, such as cleaning the wick and replacing parts.
- In remote locations, finding kerosine fuel can be challenging. You have to prepare yourself beforehand.
- Burning kerosene releases carbon emissions, making it less eco-friendly compared to some alternatives.
Kerosene Storage
It is simple to stock up on kerosene. Since there is no pressure on it, the gas cannot gradually escape. It is not going anywhere unless there is a hole in the tank. It is a reasonably stable fuel to store on shelves. Ten years is not out of the question if you add a stabilizer. As with any fuel, be cautious when storing it. Furthermore, just like all fuels, it is prohibited in apartments and storage spaces. Additionally, you need to keep it from spreading and running away.
Kerosene CookStove Price
Kerosene costs can vary significantly per gallon, depending on your location and the state of the market. In the United States, a gallon of kerosene usually costs between $3 and $10. It is crucial to remember, though, that supply and market demand, geographic variables, and changes in the price of crude oil can all affect kerosene prices.
Basic models can be found for about $50, while more sophisticated and additional
feature-rich models that are energy-efficient may cost from $100 to $300 or even more. Search for reliable suppliers and manufacturers online or in local areas for upgraded products that suit your needs.
Is a 2-Burner Kerosene Stove Ideal for Camping?
Your choice of a 2-burner kerosene stove will mostly depend on the particulars of your camping. These stoves are a great option if you are organizing a group camping trip and need to cook for a few people.
From boiling water for coffee to making complete meals, they make it easy to cook a wide range of foods quickly and effectively. To save weight and space, you might want to think about using a lighter, more compact stove for solo or minimalist backpacking excursions. Ultimately, the type of stove you choose should fit your needs, cooking style, and guest count while camping.
You will not have to worry about your stove running out of fuel in the middle of nowhere because kerosene is a widely available fuel. The convenience that a two-burner kerosene stove offers is its main benefit. You can cook multiple dishes at once with two burners, which makes meal preparation for your camping group a breeze.
These stoves can be a bit heavier than smaller, more portable camp stoves. So if you are planning a long hike as a soloist, a kerosene stove would be a headache for you because of its weight. You can jump to other fuel types like propane or butane camp stoves for mere convenience. Canisters for propane are bulky due to their need for heavy metal.
Butane is more portable because it uses lightweight tin canisters.
Addressing User Queries
Is a kerosene stove safe to use?
As kerosene heaters burn, oxygen is consumed. The air’s oxygen content may drop to a hazardous level if they are used in a small space or an area with insufficient ventilation.
Reduced oxygen availability may cause fuel to burn incompletely and produce carbon monoxide. Colorless and odorless, carbon monoxide can kill you suddenly if inhaled in large enough quantities or over an extended period of time.
Kerosene heaters can also release sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon dioxide in addition to carbon monoxide. Inhaling these substances poses a risk, particularly to individuals who are pregnant, have asthma, have cardiovascular disease, are elderly, or are very young.
How is kerosene stove different from the gas stove?
Since kerosene and heating oil are both safe and efficient fuels, the type of tank on your property will usually determine which fuel you should use.
Use heating oil if your tank is located inside your house or place of business. You should use kerosene (or a combination of both fuels) if your tank is installed outside of your house or place of business, as it will function better in colder weather.
Is kerosene safer than propane?
Although kerosene was originally used to power oil lamps, it is now also used to power jets and heat homes. It is less hazardous than propane and occurs naturally as a liquid. It does heat more effectively, but it is not as ecologically friendly. For some, kerosene is a better option because it is less expensive than propane.
