There are several kerosene lanterns in the market today and they are good when it comes to illuminating your room comfortably and affordably too.

But because there are so many brands and variants today, you need to select the best so that you get the highest value from whichever product that you are purchasing. This comprehensive review is going to guide you.

Advantages of Using Kerosene Lamps

Even though electricity has its own set of benefits, there are some times or areas where there will be no electricity, like far-flung farmhouses. There are some other instances where you need to light and warm up a room in a different way. For you to achieve this you are going to need to make use of a source of warmth and light that is not dependent on electricity.

These simple and easy-to-use lanterns utilize kerosene as a fuel in an enclosure through with the heat and light are produced.

There is glass as part of the lantern and it offers protection to the ignition while also ensuring constant combustion of oxygen. Today, there are lots of lanterns in this category but the manner of the functionality remains similar.

Kerosene is the most ideal fuel as lantern oil and this is because it has a very long shelf life. Based on the shelf life, the combustion of the oil is done. In a case where the storage of the oil is done inside a container, the oil can remain intact for up to 12 months.

The shelf life of the fuel can even increase to as much as 10 years if the storage is done with a metal container.

In the two cases, kerosene should be stored in a dry place. It is refined from crude oil and the byproducts of its combustion are less noxious than the ones from coal, wool, and petroleum. Because of the nature of the substances produced following the combustion of kerosene, it can be used in outdoor spaces without any issues.

Kerosene can also be used in indoor spaces but in such cases, there has to be proper ventilation and aeration because some of the gases that are produced from the combustion can still be very dangerous, so precaution must be adhered to.

Kerosene can burn for an extended period and is known for outstanding combustibility. It is easy to use, you just get your lighter or matchstick and you can light the lantern. All these characteristics ensure that a kerosene lantern can be a natural and reliable substitute for lights driven by electricity.

Kerosene lamps can also be used to beautify the house or spaces as long as the proper security safety steps are taken.


The 7 Most Interesting Kerosene Lamps


1. Dietz Original Oil Burning Lantern

Dietz Original 76 Oil Lamp Burning Lantern Black with Gold Trim

This is one of the most trusted brands as far as kerosene lamps are concerned. The original Dietz lantern was first introduced into the market in 1978. It is very similar to many of the other lanterns that were made in Germany. It comes with its rising cone burner which allows for easy and efficient lighting. A feature that is unique to this kerosene lamp is that it comes with a left-handed globe lift.

Specifications

  • It comes with a wick and the user just need to add oil
  • 10-1/2-inch height and 4.75-inch diameter at the base
  • There is a ½-inch flat wick
  • Average illumination ranks at seven candle power
  • Eight-ounce fount capacity, burning time of 11 hours
  • It is available by the case, a dozen lanterns to a case

Features

The flat wick lanterns produce the highest level of lighting using kerosene fuel but it also works well with clear lamp oil. Users are always advised to check the product description properly to know the exact kind of oil to use.

Pros

  • Beautiful decoration
  • Perfect for camping
  • Comes with wick strip and lamp globe burner
  • Burning time of 11 hours

Cons

  • There are some lever problems

2. NeeFoor Glass Kerosene Lamp Lantern

Oil Lamp, NeeFoor Glass Kerosene Lamp Lantern Retro Nostalgia Chamber Lamplight with Wick (Red)

NeeFoor is another brand known for reliability and excellence when it comes to lamps. Here is another brilliant product from their stable. It is an antique-type oil lamp that is ideal for those who want to achieve that classical and ancient look.

These antique oil lamps can be used in kitchens, bedrooms, or living room. It is also perfect for use during emergencies when there are power cuts or just to establish a unique atmosphere. It is a perfect blend of decoration, collection, and utilitarian values.

Specifications

  • It is about 21 cm in height, roughly eight inches
  • Package dimensions: 8.7 X 2.9 X 2.8 inches
  • Weight: 8.3 inches

Features

It is made from transparent glass alongside an elegant, well-carved, and charming design. It offers excellent light transmission and cleaning is very easy, thus making maintenance a fun experience. There is a removable wick adjuster and a wick, replacement of the fuel and wick is designed to be stress-free.

Users need to just pour about 100ml of kerosene but take care not to overfill it so that there are no oil spills – oil is not included in the set.

Pros

  • Maintenance is very easy
  • Elegant design
  • Wick adjuster is detachable

Cons

  • Some customers find the size disappointing

3. Dietz Blizzard Oil Burning Lantern

Dietz #80 Blizzard Oil Burning Lantern (Unfinished)

Dietz is one of the most trusted brands as far as oil lamps are concerned and here is another impressive product from their lines. It is designed for maximum performance and users are often impressed with the durability, ease of use, and excellent value for money spent.

Specifications

  • Height measures at 14.75 inches
  • Item weight clocks in at just 2.2 pounds
  • Product dimensions: 7.5 X 5 X 14.5 inches
  • Operating time: As much as 36 hours

Features

It comes with a very stunning design and this allows it to be used for decorations and it is perfect for emergencies. It offers a burning time of 26 hours on just 31 ounces of fuel. The output is rated at 12 calendar power. It is fitted with a 7/8-inch wick.

Pros

  • Beautiful design
  • Excellent light radiance
  • Efficient performance
  • Cost-effective fuel usage

Cons

  • Base seam problems

4. Clear Pedestal Style Oil Lamp with Plain Flare

Clear Pedestal Style Oil Lamp with Plain Flare Top Large Bulged Chimney

Here is an outstandingly elegant glass lamp that stands at around 18 inches in height. Many customers like the unique antique finish which makes it stunning. This design means that it can be used perfectly as a decorative piece too in any area and space in your building.

The burner in the kerosene lamp oil fastens in a counterclockwise direction and this allows for additional security. There is also a burner that is plated with high-quality brass in addition to the wick.

There is also a reservoir that has the capacity for as much as 32 oz of kerosene. There is an added advantage with the reservoir and this is because it is designed to be transparent so that you will be able to see the color oils whenever they are included.

It is a very well-designed piece that is designed to be as durable as possible. Customers often praise it for its long-lasting nature and there is a solid assurance for getting optimal value for money spent. It is one of the most outstanding antique kerosene lanterns.

Specifications

  • Product dimensions: 14 X 6 X 8 inches
  • Item weight: 4.3 pounds

Features

There are features like the bulged globe, lamp base, brass plated burner that comes with wick, and even an extra red stripe wick so you are always sure of having a wick to ignite.

It does not just have the classical appearance alone; it is designed to work with any preferred color oil, citronella, paraffin oil, or ultra-pure oil. It is ideal for those who want to use the oil lamp in both indoor and outdoor spaces.

It measures 18 inches in height and there is this charming design that it comes with and it adds to the charm and exotic appearance of the room or any space in your building where you intend to utilize the product. The burner is plated with bronze and the wick measures 0.75 inches and it is always ready to burn whenever you want to use it.

The flame can be adjusted based on how the user wants it in terms of the shape of the flame and the intensity of the light. It is an outstanding table oil lamp made from the highest-quality material.

The full money-back guarantee that was put in place gives the customers all the assurance that they need so you can always get the funds back if you do not like it. It comes with the wick so you can proceed to make use of it with no delay.

Pros

  • Charming antique design
  • Designed to last for generations
  • Comes with all needed accessories
  • Wick and brass-plated burner present

Cons

  • Wick issues

5. Feuerhand Hurricane Lantern – German Made Oil Lamp

Feuerhand Hurricane Lantern - German Made Oil Lamp - 10" with Care Pack (White)

The Feuerhand hurricane lantern is a very trusted product and it is widely respected for its sturdy and resistant design. For well over 100 years, the brand has been extinguishing darkness. The Feuerhand Baby Special 276 Hurricane Lantern is a time-tested treasure that is cherished and produced in Germany to date and the label clearly and proudly states its origin.

The amazing product is made using galvanized steel and it is really good when it comes to being resistant to corrosion. Even though this is a green variant, there is a wide array of colored and powder-coated models in place and you can select anyone you choose.

This product is good when it comes to creating that cozy and warm atmosphere in your terrace or yard. It is also made with the break-resistant and heat-resistant Schott Suprax glass and which ensures that the Feuerhand hurricane lantern offers protection to the flame from wind or any form of weather. It is particularly designed for outdoor use and can offer as much as 20 hours of operating time.

The paint is designed to be as scratch and heat resistant as possible. The lantern work in all kinds of weather conditions and burns twice brighter than the conventional table lamps that feature the same wick size.

The brand has been making these lanterns since 1902 in Germany so it is a very trustworthy and resilient brand. It has a first-class finish and quality. The parts are all German-made and the quality is assured.

It is known for a versatile and durable kerosene lamp and it is ideal for ambient and emergency light. A specially developed burner element ensures that there will be no flickering or unnecessary sooting from the flame.

There is also a special seal in the tank that makes sure that the risk of leakage is not there. It comes equipped with heat-resistant SUPRAX globes that will not crack upon contact with snow or rain.

Specifications

  • Product dimensions: 10 X 5.25 X 5.25 inches
  • Item weight: One pound
  • Average candle power: 7-8
  • Fuel capacity: 10 ounces
  • Burn time: 20 hours

Features

  • It is 10 inches in height and it is from a high-quality brand based in Germany
  • It comes with genuine tags that show clearly ‘Original Made in Germany’
  • There is a long-lasting ½-inch flat wick
  • The reservoir has a 10 oz capacity
  • Burning time is 20 hours
  • There is a care pack that comes with an additional wick and detailed instructions as outlined by Vermont Lanterns which ships the products securely and bubble wrapped
  • Perfect and cost-effective for outdoor and indoor emergency lighting, off-grid adventures, camping and patios
  • Comes with full warranty, service, and parts are all available from Vermont Lanterns

Pros

  • Maximum quality
  • Extended burn time
  • Optimal lighting performance

Cons

  • Lever problems – it squeeks

6. Coleman Powerhouse Dual-Fuel Lantern

Coleman Powerhouse Dual-Fuel Lantern

Illuminate your outdoor spaces with this Powerhouse Dual-Fuel lamp from Coleman. It is a long-lasting camping lantern that has a two-mantle design that can project as much as 800 lumens to a distance of 72 feet away.

It comes with the comprehensive Dual-Fuel technology that allows you to either make use of unleaded fuel or Coleman Liquid Fuel. It is very easy to light the product with a swift match strike and there is a dial feature in place that allows you to set the level of brightness using the adjustable control knob.

Specifications

  • Product dimensions: 16.3 X 7.6 X 7.35 inches
  • Product weight: 4.5 pounds

Features

  • Long-lasting for outdoor and camping use
  • Dual-Fuel technology allows you to utilized unleaded fuel or Coleman Liquid Fuel
  • There is the All-Season Strong technology that offers reliable performance in all weather conditions
  • The bail handle allows for easy hanging and carrying of the lantern
  • There is an adjustable control knob that allows for selecting the ideal brightness level

Pros

  • Perfect for camping and outdoor experiences
  • Lights easily with the matches
  • Dual-fuel feature
  • Porcelain-coated ventilator protects against rust and corrosion

Cons

  • Pump problems

7. Dietz Monarch Hot Blast Blue and Gold Kerosene Lantern 

Dietz Monarch #10 Hot Blast Blue and Gold Kerosene Lantern Vintage Style Oil Lamp

Here is a new and Gold Trim-limited variant and it is ideal for colder climates all year round. It is designed to be perfect for emergency lighting, camping, and other outdoor events. It can burn for 23 hours on just 15 ounces of fuel.

Specifications

It comes with an elegant and long-lasting design and the candle power output is rated at six. It comes with a 5/8 inch additional six-inch wick roll. It comes with about 13 inches in height and it is a Trim Hot blast lamp.

Pros

  • Long burn time
  • High-quality material and design
  • Perfect for outdoor uses

Cons

  • Wick problems

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Kerosene Lamp

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Kerosene Lamp

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Kerosene Lamp

Kerosene lamps are very easy to easy but because flames are involved, it is good to take the necessary precautions. This explains why you need to consider some factors before you go ahead to make a purchase. The following are such factors:

Ventilation

Fire needs oxygen to exist so there has to be a provision of oxygen all through the globe made of glass. Once the combustion is done, the gas also has to exit the chamber so that it does not form a fog that will affect the illumination or even extinguish the flames.

The most excellent kerosene lamps are those that still have adequate ventilation even when there is pressure. Some other lamps have round cutouts for airflow.

It is also crucial that ventilation of the room is done in a case where the product is to be used in indoor spaces. This is important because the fumes produced can have an unpleasant impact. Even though not a lot of fumes are produced, it is vital to ensure ventilation.

Handles

Even though the glass may not get broken as a result of the heat, you cannot handle it with your bare hands so you do not get your skin burnt. The only manner through which you can grip the lamp will be for you to hold using the handles. For this reason, the handles have to resistant to heat, or else it will not serve its purpose.

Some kerosene lamps have a bail handle that is fixed vertically while some others are in the free-fall design. Some others come with huge handles on the right and left. It is also possible that the upper part comes with a hook that can be utilized for hanging the light. Hence, if the buyer wants to go for one that has a handle with great aesthetic value, then it is good to go for the ones with hooks and bail handles.

Exterior Design and Build

The material that is used for the construction of the kerosene lamp is very important. If you go for one that is made from low-quality plastic then it is not going to last long. Such products are not durable and can melt or even burn if care is not taken.

A good number of kerosene lamps are made from metallic alloy or high-density plastic material for the outer shell. This is good as it allows the product to be compact and lightweight but also very strong. If you are not interested in portable lanterns, then you can go for the ones that are made from metal.

This is because these are usually bigger and can even last longer. Kerosene lamps made from metal are also known for being able to generate and withstand more heat while also not corroding on time.

Temperature Adjustment Settings

Every kerosene lamp has a knob, key, or switch that allows for the ignition or extinguishing of the fire. In a case where the fuel finishes, the lamp is going to be able to switch off on its own. Some other kerosene lamps come with knobs that can be used for the adjustment of the level of heat based on your level of comfort. Some other knobs have number settings while some others are designed to slide in a loop.

Storage Capacity

The period that the lamps are going to remain ignited is directly proportional to the quantity of fuel that they can contain. This explains why all kerosene lamps have reservoirs for fuel. Since the wick has to be dipped inside the fuel, the compartment for storage is normally placed under the base of the lamp.

A good number of kerosene lamps can remain lit for as long as 20 hours while burning anything from 25 to 30 oz of kerosene. Kerosene remains tidier in metal containers than other kinds of materials. This implies that if the storage container has an inner lining of metal, then the fuel can be stored for a much longer period.

Fuel

Kerosene lamps mainly utilize kerosene as fuel. Other forms of refined crude oil or petroleum are not going to work even though the fuels are similar. There are some special kerosene lamps that are designed to be dual-fuel type and can work with unscented kerosene. This way, you are going to select the one that fits your preference the best.

Cylinder

The best quality kerosene lamps are the ones that have cylinders composed of glass as this offers the highest level of resistance to heat. In a case where the user wants to utilize a lamp for extended periods, then you should go for the lamps that have globes that are protected thermally. The globe is also one that is available in several sizes and shapes, the final selection will be dependent on your personal preferences.


Accessories for Kerosene Lamps

For the proper usage and operation of kerosene lamps, there are some other items in place that have to be present and they are referred to as the accessories. Accessories typically come with the packages and they are as follows:

Funnel

For you to be able to do proper dispensing of fuel inside the storage container or fuel reserve of a kerosene pressure lantern, you will need fuel. A funnel made from plastic is ideal. However, you should be cleaning it from time to time with a soft fabric.

Wick

After a while, the initial wick in small oil lamps are going to be burnt out totally and you will need to get a replacement. The regular type of wick is the one that is made from cotton and it is cost-effective in addition to working very well. But there are some other kinds of wicks that are made from synthetic materials and they are known for burning for even longer periods.

Mittens

It is not unusual for the kerosene lamp to become very hot and that is where the mittens come into the picture. Mittens are made of thick materials and should not be far from you. These mittens are designed in a way that they can absorb heat and allow you to hold or carry the lamp.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it possible to use a kerosene lamp outdoors?

A: Yes, kerosene lamps can be used in outdoor spaces as long as there is proper ventilation.


Q: Is it possible to store the fuel in a humid environment?

A: You shouldn’t keep kerosene in humid areas. This is to ensure that it will not lose its potency. Kerosene must be stored in dry areas.


Q: Is the heat generated from a kerosene lamp adequate for greenhouses?

A: No, the heat that is generated from a kerosene lamp is inadequate for greenhouses.


Q: Is it possible to use kerosene lamps as design pieces?

A: Yes, there are very beautiful kerosene lamps that can be used for aesthetic purposes too in addition to functional purposes.


Conclusion

The exact kind of kerosene light and warming methods that you are going to use for your house is going to depend on your personal preferences and taste.

However, making use of a kerosene lantern is a good way of adding another dimension to it, in addition to the several benefits that come with making use of it.

There are several kinds of kerosene lamps from different brands and variants but this guide is a comprehensive one on the seven best kerosene lanterns.

About the Author

James Laress

I know everything about heating a house, heaters and kerosene. If You need to know something about heaters, let me know!

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