Kerosene space heaters?

Question

Are kerosene space heaters better or worse for the environment than central gas heating?

Answer 1

mt_zion_  is close on indoor air, a little extreme, maybe.  Outside is another story. Modern kerosene heaters can exceed 99%efficiency.  Older central heaters were in the 70% range, most newer ones are mid 80%.  The difference is in the heat lost in the hot exhaust being vented outside.  Some people seem much more sensative to heater fumes than others.  Unvented gas heaters may be a reasonable compramise.  Newer modles are much cleaner than even 10 years ago both gas and kerosene.

Answer 2

If by 'environment' you mean your personal indoor living space, then, yes, a kerosene heater is bad for your environment.  The combustion products are un-vented.  This is nasty stuff which, in my opinion, shouldn't be inhaled.  Not only do you have the normal CO2 and CO being emitted, but, when the combustion air--which is contaminated by ever-present indoor air pollution--is burnt, an endless array of nasty chemicals is emitted.  Oxygen levels are also reduced to a great extent.

Inhalation of combustion products should always be avoided.