Kerosene Does Not Last Forever
Kerosene goes bad over time. When stored properly, it has up to five years of shelf life. This petroleum-based fuel loses its flammable quality when condensation addswater to the storage containerover time or mold and bacteria populationstransform itinto a sludge-like consistency.
How Do You Know When Kerosene Is Bad?
You can tell when kerosene has gone bad when it turns yellow or murky, develops a visible mold or sludge, or begins to smell like gasoline or diesel fuel. Do not try to use kerosene that has gone bad.