If the airhose is ether-based polyurethane, it makes an excellent fuel hose, and will last a long long time. Often this type of air hose is a transparent tinted color with visible braiding reinforcement. Mine was a blue tint.
http://www.newageindustries.com/polyurethane_hose.asp
The ether-based polyurethane clear fuel hose (found in motorcycle shops, and trucking equipment shops) is also very good, without the braiding reinforcement.
Holds up well to heat, stays flexible and clear. Very resistant to petro diesel, biodiesel, and (heated) WVO.
http://www.procycle.us/main/fuel_hose.htm
I have used it to replace the clear line running from the filter to the IP. IIRC, it was 1/2" size that fit perfectly over the cut off ends of the old clear hose I cut off flush at the ends of the nipples. Impossible to get the old hose off the nipples without scratching up the nipples (which would invite air leaks). Also, this allowed (necessitated?) the use of larger hose clamps, which are easier to create a good seal.
RE: Longevity of your heater hose temp. replacement, who knows? What is the quality of the heater hose? My guess would be at least a few weeks. The hose will start to "sweat" long before it starts dripping good.
Do you have a fuel pump at the tank?