Winter is on the way, and that means it’s time to get your SunFire heater in top shape to keep you warm and comfortable throughout the season. A little preparation now will go a long way in ensuring your heater performs at its best when temperatures drop. Follow these essential tips to make sure your heater is winter-ready and ready to deliver reliable heat all season long. 

1. Give It a Fresh Start: Clean Your Heater 

Before your heater gets to work, it deserves a little TLC. Dust and debris can build up over time, affecting its efficiency and performance. Wipe down the exterior with a soft cloth and check the air intake and vents to make sure they’re free from obstructions. Open the burner cover and thoroughly clean the inside components and to be free of dust. When dust mixes with fuel inside the flame chamber, it can cover the nozzle with soot and carbon buildup, causing clogs and poor performance that can lead to smell and smoke. A clean heater not only works better but lasts longer—so start the season with a clean slate. 

2. Fuel Matters: Use Clean, High-Quality Fuel 

Fuel is the lifeblood of your SunFire heater, so make sure you’re using the right kind. The SF80, SF120, and SF150 all run efficiently on diesel, kerosene, or #2 fuel oil. Using clean, uncontaminated fuel is essential to keeping your heater running smoothly. Contaminated fuel can lead to clogs in the nozzle, causing smell and smoke, which usually requires a nozzle replacement.  

For those braving extreme cold, consider mixing a little kerosene with your diesel to prevent gelling—it’s a simple step that can make all the difference in performance. Just be sure to adjust the fuel flow rate to match the blend, as kerosene burns at a lower temperature. Instructions and changing the fuel flow using the adjustment screw can be found in your operating manual.  

3. Check the Nozzle, Electrodes, and Fuel Lines 

Just like any hardworking machine, your heater has parts that need to be checked regularly. Take a look at the nozzle and electrodes to ensure there’s no carbon buildup and clean them if needed. Don’t forget to inspect the fuel lines for any wear or damage—better to fix it now than deal with a bigger problem later. For SF150 owners, plug the heater in and ensure the heater band around the fuel filter gets warm to help prevent gelling in colder temperatures. 

4. Give It a Test Run 

There’s no better way to ensure your heater is ready for winter than by firing it up for a quick test run. Let it run for a bit to make sure everything’s working smoothly—this way, you’ll catch any potential issues before you really need it. Think of it as a quick warm-up before the season officially kicks in so if any replacement parts are needed, you have plenty of time for any tune-ups or repairs before the cold weather arrives.. 

5. Store the Heater Properly When Not in Use 

If you’re storing your SunFire heater during warmer months, make sure it’s stored in a dry, protected location to prevent dust and moisture buildup. Covering the heater with a durable cover will keep it in top condition and dust free, ready to use when needed. 

Ready for Winter? 

With just a few simple maintenance steps, you can ensure your SunFire heater is ready to keep you warm all winter long. By cleaning it, checking key components, and using the right fuel, your heater will perform efficiently and reliably when you need it most. Get your heater winter-ready today, and enjoy the season without worrying about the cold. 

If you have any questions or run into issues, don’t hesitate to contact SunFire’s expert support team—we’re here to help you stay warm.