From what we've found, the Mr. Heater F270385 210,000 BTU Forced Air Kerosene Heater is pretty versatile since it can run on multiple fuels like kerosene, diesel, and even home heating oil. That flexibility is great when fuels vary in availability and price.
But, like any device that runs on more than one type of fuel, it can have some quirks, especially with ignition.
One thing to watch out for is starting troubles when using diesel. Based on our research, there are reports of smoke and difficulty igniting, probably because diesel doesn't ignite as easily as kerosene. This can often happen when you're just getting started with the heater or if you're switching up the fuel types.
Making sure to follow the setup instructions in the manual closely can help dodge these problems. You want to check that the fuel pressure is correct and that the ignitor is doing its thing.
We found that for some, the ignitor doesn’t always activate automatically and might need some tweaking or manual help. This seems more common in colder weather, which can make the heater's job a bit tougher.
The best bet for smooth operation is regular maintenance. It's helpful to check the fuel lines for cracks or any wear and tear, and ensure the ignitor is in good shape. Since this heater can use different fuels, keeping up with maintenance is even more crucial for reliable performance.
So, while there can be some initial hurdles, the Mr. Heater F270385 does a solid job of heating large areas, especially once it's running smoothly.
It's built to last with a sturdy motor people have appreciated, but a little routine care can help avoid trouble with different fuels.