How to Replace the Wick on a Dyna-Glo Kerosene Heater
A worn wick is the most common cause of poor performance in kerosene heaters — reduced heat, yellow flame, smoke, and strong odor all point to a wick that needs replacing. This guide covers the complete wick replacement process for all Dyna-Glo convection and radiant kerosene heater models.
When to Replace the Wick
- • The flame is yellow, uneven, or won't reach full height
- • You smell kerosene strongly during normal operation
- • The heater produces visible smoke or soot
- • The wick won't raise fully using the adjuster knob
- • The wick is blackened, hardened, or tar-crusted
- • Heat output has noticeably decreased
Wick Compatibility by Model
| Model | Type | BTU | Wick Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| WK24BK | Convection | 23,800 | Cotton cylindrical wick |
| WK24WH | Convection | 23,800 | Cotton cylindrical wick |
| WK95C8B | Convection | 23,800 | Cotton cylindrical wick |
| WK95C8C | Convection | 23,800 | Cotton cylindrical wick |
| WK95C6C | Convection | 23,800 | Cotton cylindrical wick |
| WK11C8 | Convection | 10,500 | Cotton cylindrical wick |
| RMC-95C6B | Convection | 23,000 | Cotton cylindrical wick |
| RMC-95-C2 | Convection | 23,000 | Cotton cylindrical wick |
| RMC-95-C4 | Convection | 23,000 | Cotton cylindrical wick |
| RMC-95-C7 | Convection | 23,000 | Cotton cylindrical wick |
| RMC-55R7 | Radiant | 10,000 | Cotton flat wick |
| RMC-55R7B | Radiant | 10,000 | Cotton flat wick |
Step-by-Step: Convection Heater Wick Replacement
Models: WK24BK, WK24WH, WK95C8B, WK95C8C, WK11C8, RMC-95C6B
- 1Let the heater cool completely. If the heater was recently running, wait at least 1 hour. Never work on a hot heater or one with fuel in the tank near an open flame.
- 2Empty the fuel tank. Use the siphon pump (included with the heater) to remove all kerosene from the tank into a safe container. A dry tank prevents spills during disassembly.
- 3Remove the chimney assembly. Lift the chimney (the large metal cylinder above the wick) straight up. It slides off without tools. Set it aside on newspaper.
- 4Remove the wick adjuster knob. Gently pull the wick adjuster knob straight out. On some models, you may need to unscrew a small set screw first.
- 5Lift out the burner unit. The burner unit (which holds the wick) lifts straight up out of the fuel tank. There are usually 2-3 tabs that need to be aligned to release it.
- 6Remove the old wick. The wick wraps around the inside of the wick holder. Unhook it from the wick pins/teeth and pull it free. Note how it sits — the new wick installs the same way.
- 7Install the new wick. Thread the new wick onto the wick holder teeth, making sure it sits evenly all the way around. The wick should move up and down smoothly when you turn the adjuster shaft.
- 8Reassemble and soak. Reinstall the burner unit, adjuster knob, and chimney. Fill the tank with fresh kerosene and wait at least 60 minutes for the new wick to fully absorb fuel before lighting.
Step-by-Step: Radiant Heater Wick Replacement
Models: RMC-55R7, RMC-55R7B
The process is similar to convection models but simpler — radiant heaters have a smaller burner assembly. Remove the guard cage, lift out the glass globe, then remove the burner unit to access the wick. The flat wick wraps around the wick holder and attaches to small metal teeth. Install the new wick the same way, reassemble, fill with kerosene, and wait 60 minutes before lighting.
Tips for a Clean-Burning Wick
- Use only 1-K grade kerosene. Lower-grade fuel leaves more residue on the wick and shortens its life. Never use gasoline, diesel, or fuel additives.
- Perform a dry burn monthly. Let the heater run empty once a month to burn off tar deposits. This extends wick life significantly.
- Trim the wick if needed. After dry burning, use scissors to trim any uneven carbon buildup from the top edge of the wick for a more even flame.
- Store with an empty tank. At the end of the season, drain all fuel and do a final dry burn before storing. Old kerosene gums up the wick during storage.
- Wait the full soak time. A new wick needs at least 60 minutes to absorb fuel. Lighting too early causes a weak, smoky flame and can damage the wick.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my Dyna-Glo kerosene heater wick?
Replace the wick when you notice reduced heat output, a yellow or uneven flame, excessive smoke, or a strong kerosene smell during operation. With regular use (daily during winter), most wicks last one heating season. If the wick is blackened, tar-crusted, or won't raise to full height, it's time for a new one.
What size wick does my Dyna-Glo kerosene heater use?
It depends on the model. Convection models (WK24BK, WK95C8B, WK95C8C, WK11C8) use a larger cylindrical wick. Radiant models (RMC-55R7, RMC-55R7B) use a smaller flat wick. Always match the wick to your specific model number — the wrong size won't fit the wick holder assembly.
Can I clean a kerosene heater wick instead of replacing it?
You can extend a wick's life by performing a "dry burn" — let the heater run until the fuel tank is completely empty, then let it continue burning until the flame goes out on its own. This burns off tar and carbon deposits. However, if the wick is hardened, frayed, or won't absorb fuel properly, replacement is the only fix.
Where can I buy replacement wicks for Dyna-Glo kerosene heaters?
Replacement wicks are available on Amazon, at Home Depot, Lowes, and Menards. Search for your model number + "replacement wick" to find the correct size. We link to compatible wicks on our parts page.