-
Traditionally, cotton wicks burned easily and could burn away completely if not lit correctly. These wicks need to be thoroughly soaked in kerosene before being ignited, so that the flame burns at the kerosene and little damage is done to the wick. More modern kerosene heaters use a wick made of a fiberglass hybrid that is much more resistant to flame and will not easily burn even when it is dry.
There is also a significant difference between modern kerosene appliances and older versions. Many of the modern versions come with battery-powered ignition, devices that automatically extinguish the wick in case of an accident, and gauges that show how much fuel is left. Older models tend to have only the basic ignition device and possibly an automatic extinguisher in case the heater tips over, but beyond that they will need more attention, especially if an older wick is being used. - Usually owners can tell if the wick needs to be replaced just by looking at it. Even the most durable wicks tend to look more worn and ragged as they reach the end of their lives. As the kerosene burns at the top of the wick, the byproducts of the flame tend to accumulate just inside the wick itself. These byproducts build up to form a kerosene tar that sticks to the threads of the wick and makes it more difficult for the kerosene to be drawn up through the tip. This in turn affects the flame, making it shaky, weak or not as far-reaching as it once was. By using the flame as an indicator, many owners can confirm whether or not the wick needs to be replaced. A simple touch-test will show if the tar buildup has become a problem, because the entire wick will feel stiff and frozen.
- Sometimes wicks can be the wrong thickness or size from the heater, which causes kerosene leaking problems. The vapor of the kerosene will not be channeled correctly by an inferior wick; instead, it will seep up between the cracks and cause a guttering flame or a noticeable odor. This can usually be fixed by buying a new wick, but users can prevent such problems in the first place by making sure they purchase the right kind of wick for their heater. Wicks are generally made with specific devices--often even specific brands--in mind, so using the correct wick for the job is important.
