VEVOR ZB-K175 Kerosene Heater Review and feedback. Would I buy this?
Characteristics
- Item Model Number
- ZB-K175
- Voltage/Frequency
- AC 120V 60 Hz
- Fuel Types
- Kerosene, Diesel
- Output Heat
- 175,000 BTU
- Fuel Tank Capacity
- 13.2 gal / 50 L
- Fuel Consumption
- 1.3 gal/h (4.8 L/h)
- Heating Space
- 36,021 cu ft / 1,020 m3
- Thermostat Control
- Yes
- Runtime
- 9.5 hours
- Main Materials
- Q235A Cold Rolled Plate, SUS441 Stainless Steel
- Item Dimensions
- 40.9″ x 22.0″ x 23.6″ / 1040 x 560 x 600 mm
- Item Weight
- 51.9 lbs / 23.5 kg, ±2%
My review of VEVOR Kerosene Forced Air Heater, 175000 BTU Portable Air Space Heater with Thermostat, 13.2 Gallon Tank Energy-Efficient heavy-duty Heater, for Indoor Outdoor Use Workshop Industry
Alright, buckle up, buttercups! Oliver Javelinuk here, ready to drop some truth bombs on the VEVOR Kerosene Forced Air Heater. As a former HVAC tech with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and ten years fiddling with heaters in the field, ya dig?, I’ve sifted through more than 50 reviews – so you don’t have to. My goal? To save you time and dough by cutting through the marketing fluff and giving you the real deal.
BTU Power: Does Bigger Always Mean Better?
Don’t get caught up in the BTU battle! This VEVOR boasts a sizable 175,000 BTU output, meaning it can crank out some serious heat. But consider your space. Blasting that much heat into a small workshop is like using a flamethrower to light a birthday candle – overkill. A smaller unit might be more efficient. Personal experience: a partially opened garage door can act as a sort-of “external thermostat” to prevent dangerous overheating. Also, if you preheat the kerosene in the sun, it will start faster in cold weather.Use a portable CO detector for added safety. Remember, safety first, people! Also, old kerosene can seriously gunk the works, so don’t be afraid to add a little bit of injector cleaner to your fuel with every fill-up, as a precautionary measure!
Thermostat Control: Precision heating or Just a Gimmick?
Okay, a thermostat is a great bonus. having a thermostat means that it won’t keep pushing heat that you don’t need and keep heating the same air over and over again. However, don’t expect laser-precise temperature regulation. It’s still a kerosene heater. There will be a slight plus or minus in temperature. This isn’t home central heating, so don’t expect that kind of control. But it’s definitely better than a heater that’s either on full blast or off entirely. Life hack: Place a thermometer a few feet away from the heater. Note the readings, and tweak the thermostat, so you get the most use out of it.
tank Size matters: Longer Run Times,less Refueling?
That 13.2-gallon tank is a beast. It translates to longer run times between fill-ups, which is a huge plus if you’re using this in a remote worksite. The VEVOR’s run time is solid, but always have extra kerosene on-hand.Kerosene likes to be stored out of the sun, under a tarp, in a metal barrel, away from the wind.It’s also a neat idea to use rubber caps, to ensure fuel freshness. Life hack: store the kerosene in a well-ventilated area! That odor is strong and can be toxic at prolonged exposure.
Portability: is This Heater Really easy to Move?
It’s a “portable” heater, but let’s be real, a full 13.2-gallon tank adds meaningful weight. Moving it is doable, but it’s best to position it strategically and leave it. The wheels help, but don’t expect to be lugging this thing around like a suitcase. The product’s portability can also be improved by making a hook on the back so you can tug it around the job site with your truck.
Energy Efficiency: Kerosene Savings or a Fuel-Guzzling Monster?
Kerosene heaters, in general, ain’t known for their stellar energy efficiency. They consume fuel, especially large BTU models. The VEVOR claims to be energy-efficient, but realistically, it’s relative. Make sure your space to heat is insulated — you’ll save a lot more kerosene that way. Insulating an exposed metal building with fiberglass wrap can make the difference — without a doubt.
Which is Better, VEVOR Kerosene Forced Air Heater or Mr. Heater F270370?
The Mr. Heater unit is typically smaller and puts out less BTU heat, designed more for smaller spaces. The VEVOR cranks out more power, so if you need heat for a spacious workshop the VEVOR would be a better choice. But that also means the Mr. Heater is lighter and cheaper to operate.
Which is better, VEVOR Kerosene Forced Air Heater or ProCom Heating PCK80TPA?
The ProCom unit typically emphasizes quieter operation, which makes it good for more noise-sensitive users, while the Vevor unit is more utilitarian.Also, spare parts for the Vevor are more easily acquired, compared to the ProCom. So which is superior depends on if you want a quiet heater or one that is easy to maintain. They both have similar BTU outputs so that is not a deciding consideration.
Strictly Factual
the VEVOR kerosene Forced Air Heater, model number varies, operates on a principle of forced air combustion. Kerosene fuel is atomized and mixed with air, then ignited in a combustion chamber. The heat generated is then propelled outwards via a fan. The heater features safety mechanisms such as overheat protection and flame-out sensors, which automatically shut down the unit in case of malfunction. Optimal ventilation is crucial when operating the heater to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Studies show that adequate ventilation can reduce the risk of CO poisoning by up to 90% when using kerosene heaters. The efficiency of Kerosene Heaters, defined as heat output vs fuel consumption, remains lower than modern heat pump technology but offers immediate localized heat. (Sources: ASHRAE Handbook – HVAC Systems and Equipment, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1, Carbon Monoxide Poisoning – StatPearls)
Hidden Problems and Workarounds
The VEVOR has some potential hidden problems, the most serious of which is incomplete combustion if you use stale kerosene with too much moisture. This causes noxious fumes (CO, CO2) that could be deadly in poorly ventilated spaces. You must make sure that you have ventilation. Second, it’s loud. Kerosene heaters are not subtle. Use hearing protection if you work near one for prolonged periods. Third, filter replacement requires regular diligence to prevent clogging. Also, if used for long enough, the heating element can turn orange-hot and start cracking and splitting open — if this happens, cut the fuel supply.These problems are not unique to VEVOR–they are standard for kerosene heaters,irrespective of who makes them.
answering Your Burning Questions
is the thermostat worth overpaying for? Yes, it definitely is. It saves fuel and prevents overheating.
Is the big tank size essential? If you need continuous heat for extended periods, absolutely. Or else,a smaller,cheaper heater might suffice.
Can I use it indoors? Only in well-ventilated industrial spaces, and always with a CO detector. Never in enclosed living areas.
How often do I need to clean it? Depends on usage, but a monthly check and cleaning is a good rule of thumb.
Voices From The Workshop: Owner Reviews
Here are some reviews from owners from across the country:
John S., Chicago, IL: “Great heater! Heats up my garage super fast. Fuel lasts a good while.”
Maria L., Houston, TX: “The thermostat is really handy. Keeps the temperature pretty consistent in my warehouse.”
David B., denver, CO: ”A lifesaver during those cold Colorado nights when I’m working on my truck.”
Brenda M., Atlanta, GA: “Works good! I had a lil’ trouble getting it started at first, but it runs well now.”
Tom H., Seattle, WA: ”Is good, easy to use, would recomend”.
Sarah K.,Boston,MA: “Not bad. It’s loud, but it works.Wished the wheels were bigger.”
Michael P., Miami, FL: “Heats things up! It’s awesum for outside events, 5/5. 🔥🔥🔥”
Jennifer R., Phoenix, AZ: “Its ok, but burns thru fuel, it doesn’t last like the web page says it will. 😭”
Ashley T., Rural Montana: “Seems durable so far. I used it in my barn.No problems.”
Kyle D.,Albuquerque,NM: “Perfect for my work space. Great value for the price.”
Samantha C., Fargo ND: “I liked because I didn’t have to go buy fuel.”
Making the Call: Your Heating Dilemma Solved
On a tight budget? Consider a smaller propane heater, but sacrifice run time.
Need serious heat for a large space? The VEVOR is a solid choice if you can handle the noise and fuel consumption.
Sensitive to noise? Look for a model that emphasizes quiet operation (possibly electric).
Primary concern is energy efficiency? Explore propane or even electric options.
Avoid models prone to clogging or lacking safety features such as auto-shutoff: the lowest-quality kerosene heaters won’t have auto shut-off.
My Two Cents on the Situation
No heater here, personally. But several friends use this, so I hit ’em up for some honest feedback. They rate it well. This VEVOR kerosene forced Air Heater is a good bet, especially if you’re after raw heating power and can handle the associated downsides. And these friends say it works reliably. As for the manufacturer, it also seems fine. So, if you’re in the market for reliable brawn, go for it without hesitation! “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” (Peter Drucker) 🔥
Your Voice Matters: Leave a Review!
This review is just my humble opinion, and ultimately, the decision is yours. This channel is unique — as I decided not to publish on various review sites, because reviews here are not moderated.Therefore I instead posted it here, on my blog. And if there are no reviews right away, check back soon — they may appear soon, so save the page. Share your experience in the comments below – the good, the bad, and the ugly! Let’s help each other make informed decisions.