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Diesel Heaters

Diesel Air Heaters

Cold mornings are great for mountain views, but less fun inside a freezing caravan. Our diesel heaters help keep campers, caravans and motorhomes warm and comfortable when temperatures tumble. Explore the range and find the right size and setup for your rig, from compact campers to bigger touring setups.

Warm caravan interior with a diesel heater vent on a cold morning

Why Run a Diesel Heater in Your Rig

Diesel camper heaters are popular for one simple reason: they provide dependable heat while making use of an efficient, readily available fuel source. They're well suited to caravans, campervans, motorhomes and even boats.

Dry Heat, No Condensation

Unlike unflued gas heaters, a correctly installed diesel heater exhausts combustion gases outside. This provides warm, dry air inside your rig, helping reduce the condensation that can come with other forms of heating.

One Fuel Tank, No Gas Bottles to Swap

If your vehicle already runs on diesel, a diesel van heater can draw from the vehicle's fuel tank when correctly installed. Alternatively, heaters can run from a dedicated diesel tank. Either way, there's no need to swap gas bottles just to keep the heater running.

Picking the Right Size: 2kW or 4kW

Bigger isn't always better. The best diesel heater for a caravan, camper or motorhome should be appropriately sized for the space you need to heat.

2kW for Camper Trailers and Smaller Vans

A 2kW diesel heater is a great fit for many camper trailers, campervans and smaller caravans. Its lower heat output makes it easier to maintain a comfortable temperature in compact spaces without constantly cycling the heater.

If you're looking for a 2kW diesel heater for a caravan, consider your interior volume, insulation and the conditions you're likely to camp in.

4kW for Bigger Caravans and Motorhomes

Larger caravans and motorhomes generally have more air to heat and greater potential heat loss. A 4kW motorhome diesel heater provides the extra output needed for these bigger spaces, particularly when travelling in colder conditions.

Installation, Running Costs and Safety

A good heater is only part of the equation. Correct installation helps your 12V diesel heater operate efficiently, reliably and safely.

Where It Mounts and How It's Ducted

The heater unit is generally mounted in a protected location with warm air ducted into the living space. The combustion air intake and exhaust must be routed outside and positioned correctly.

For a campervan diesel heater, boat diesel heater or caravan installation, always follow the manufacturer's installation requirements.

Diesel heater unit mounted and ducted underneath a caravan

Fuel Use, 12V Draw and Safe Operation

Diesel heaters use both fuel and 12V power. Electrical draw is typically highest during start-up and shutdown, while fuel and power consumption during normal operation vary with the heater and heat setting.

Ensure your battery system can comfortably support the heater, particularly when camping off-grid. Keep the combustion intake and exhaust clear, and never disconnect power while the heater is completing its shutdown cycle.

FAQs

People often ask us these questions when talking about diesel heaters.

How long will a 100Ah battery run a 2kW diesel heater?

It depends on the heater, battery type and other loads. Check the heater's stated power consumption against your usable battery capacity.

Can I leave my diesel heater on all night?

Yes, if the manufacturer permits continuous operation and the heater is correctly installed and maintained.

What are the common problems with diesel heaters?

Low voltage, carbon build-up, fuel supply issues, blocked intake or exhaust, and poor installation.

What are the disadvantages of a diesel heater?

They require 12V power, fuel, regular maintenance and correct installation, and can produce some pump and fan noise.