Consumer Agency Warns "Vehicle Heating Non-Engine Heater, Beware of Harmful Gases and High-Temperature Burns"

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeon Jinyoung] It has been revealed that some non-idling heaters used for vehicle heating pose a risk of safety accidents due to carbon monoxide emissions.

The Korea Consumer Agency announced on the 25th that this was the result of an investigation into emissions and device safety of 10 non-idling heater products sold online.

A non-idling heater is a device that heats air or water by burning diesel or kerosene without starting the vehicle engine, providing heating for the vehicle. While mainly used by truck drivers, its use among campers has recently increased.

The Consumer Agency measured the carbon monoxide concentration of the 10 products and reported that under normal operating conditions, all products emitted levels below 0.01%. However, some products emitted carbon monoxide concentrations up to 9.65% under abnormal combustion conditions, such as when the heater did not operate properly, leading to recommendations for corrective action. The company involved (Quantum Cat) agreed to exchange products if defects occur.

When measuring the exhaust outlet temperature of emissions, all 10 products showed high temperatures above 180℃, with two portable models reaching 349℃ and 413℃ respectively. Since the high-temperature exhaust outlets are exposed externally, there is concern about burn accidents involving children.

Despite these risks, safety standards related to non-idling heaters have not yet been established. The Consumer Agency stated, “It is necessary to establish standards for the installation and operation of products to prevent safety accidents such as suffocation and burns.”

Accordingly, the Consumer Agency advised ▲using professional services when installing non-idling heaters ▲installing carbon monoxide alarms inside vehicles ▲ventilating regularly during prolonged use ▲being cautious of burns from exhaust outlets. Consumers who have already installed and are using these products are recommended to check for normal operation and seek corrective measures if abnormalities occur. Additionally, the agency plans to request relevant government departments to consider establishing safety standards for emissions and other aspects of non-idling heaters.