Choosing the right heater for a campervan requires balancing fuel efficiency, heat output, noise, safety, and installation needs. Below is a quick comparison table of five widely used campervan heater options selected for reliability and features.
| Product | Brand | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diesel Heater 8KW, 12V/24V/110V All In One | WOPLUSRO | All-In-One Diesel Air Heater | Large 1.6 Gal Tank, 110V Plug Option |
| Triclicks Diesel Air Heater 12V 5KW-8KW | Triclicks | Diesel Air Heater | LCD Switch & Remote, 10L Tank |
| Triclicks Diesel Air Heater With Bluetooth App | Triclicks | Diesel Air Heater with Bluetooth | Bluetooth App Control, Remote & LCD |
| VEVOR Diesel Air Heater, 12V 5KW | VEVOR | Diesel Air Heater | Rapid Heating, Large 10L Tank Option |
| Roomark Diesel Heater All-In-One 5KW 12V | Roomark | All-In-One Diesel Air Heater | LED Control, Timer, Pre-Heat |
Diesel Heater 8KW 12V/24V/110V All-In-One
This 8KW all-in-one diesel air heater supports 12V, 24V and includes a 110V transformer, allowing plug-in operation when shore power is available. The unit features a sizeable 1.6 gallon (7L) fuel tank and adjustable temperature range from 8°C–36°C (46.4°F–96.8°F). The sandblasted aluminum heat exchanger is highlighted for quicker heat transfer. Safety functions include thermostatic control, preheating, timing, and overheating protection at ≥270°C.
Fuel consumption is listed between 0.18–0.53 L/h with claimed continuous run capability up to ~40 hours depending on settings. This model aims to provide a balance of high output and multi-voltage flexibility, making it suitable for campervans that may alternate between battery and shore power.
Triclicks Diesel Air Heater 12V 5KW-8KW
The Triclicks 12V diesel air heater is marketed for a wide range of diesel vehicles and indoor spaces. It offers a choice of power outputs in the 5KW–8KW range, an LCD display, and remote control. The unit includes a 10L fuel tank and emphasizes low energy consumption and reduced noise via a low-vibration fuel pump.
The LCD dynamic display shows operational status and allows temperature, fuel, and power settings to be adjusted. Triclicks recommends sizing heaters to the space—smaller interiors warm more quickly, while larger spaces may require multiple units or higher output. The product targets users who prioritize visual controls and straightforward remote operation for campervan heating.
Triclicks Diesel Heater With Bluetooth App Control
This Triclicks variant adds Bluetooth app control to the diesel air heater platform, enabling remote preheating and settings adjustment from up to ~30 m (98 ft). It retains the LCD monitor, remote control, and 5KW–8KW heating capability with a 10L tank. The listing highlights low emissions and low fuel consumption.
Bluetooth control can be useful for users who want to precondition the campervan remotely without using a separate remote or wiring for timers. This model suits tech-oriented vanlifers who prefer smartphone-based scheduling and monitoring alongside traditional control methods.
VEVOR Diesel Air Heater 12V 5KW Rapid Heating
The VEVOR 5KW diesel air heater is positioned for rapid warm-up and low noise. It cites applicability for 15–20 m² (161–215 ft²) areas and uses a sandblasted aluminum heat exchanger for efficient heat transfer. The standard configuration includes a 10L fuel tank option and a long-range remote plus LCD for control.
VEVOR emphasizes fuel efficiency with consumption in the 0.16–0.52 L/h range and continuous run estimates up to ~19 hours on a full 10L tank depending on output. The product is aimed at users who need fast cabin warming with clear status feedback for medium-sized campervan interiors.
Roomark Diesel Heater All-In-One 5KW 12V
The Roomark 5KW all-in-one diesel heater includes multiple control methods: LED panel, remote control, timer, pre-heat, and constant temperature modes. The 5L fuel tank is compact but supports several hours of continuous operation. Features include overheat protection, self-check functions, and voice alerts.
Roomark focuses on control versatility and energy saving, quoting fuel consumption as low as 0.16–0.52 L/h and an average of ~0.3 L/h. The compact tank size makes this model suitable for tighter installations or users who prefer lighter, space-saving equipment in smaller campervans.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Campervan Heater
Selecting the right heater for a campervan involves matching heater type, capacity, fuel logistics, and control options to your travel style and van layout. Below are key considerations and comparison perspectives to inform a purchase.
1. Heater Type And Purpose
- Diesel Air Heaters: Deliver warm air quickly and efficiently; use vehicle diesel or separate tank. Suitable for heating living space and occasionally preheating engine compartments.
- All-In-One Units: Contain pump, burner, tank in one housing for simpler installation and portability; good for renters or temporary setups.
- Standalone Systems: Split installations (separate burner and tank) can be quieter and offer flexible placement but require more complex installs.
- Electric/Rooftop HVAC With Heater: Useful when shore power or large battery banks exist; provides integrated cooling and heating but typically draws substantial electrical power.
2. Heating Capacity And Van Size
- Match KW output to interior volume. 5KW is common for small-to-medium vans; 8KW suits very cold climates or larger layouts.
- Consider insulation quality, window area, and ceiling height. Better insulation reduces required output and runtime.
- For open-floor plans or slide-outs, plan for more output or multiple units for even distribution.
3. Fuel Tank Size Vs. Range
- Larger tanks (e.g., 10L / 2.6 gal or 7L / 1.6 gal) extend run time between refills but occupy space.
- Estimate consumption rates (typical 0.16–0.62 L/h ranges listed) and calculate how many hours you need per night to pick an appropriate tank size.
4. Power Source And Voltage
- Confirm 12V or 24V compatibility with your campervan electrical system.
- Units with a 110V transformer or electric plug offer shore-power flexibility for RV parks.
- For off-grid setups, consider energy used by control electronics, fans, and pumps in addition to fuel consumption.
5. Controls, Remote Access, And Scheduling
- Features like LCD panels, timers, and preheat add convenience for warming before entry.
- Bluetooth or app control enables remote start and temperature adjustment from a phone — useful when out of reach of a conventional remote.
- Check for intuitive interfaces and clear status displays to reduce troubleshooting in cold conditions.
6. Noise Level And Comfort
- Low-vibration fuel pumps and silencers reduce cabin noise. Noise specs may not be standardized across listings, so user tests or reviews are helpful when assessing quiet operation.
- Consider ducting and vent placement to minimize direct airflow on sleeping areas.
7. Installation And Portability
- All-in-one models simplify setup and allow relocation; they often require minimal permanent alteration.
- Split systems or rooftop installations may need professional fitting and more labor but can improve noise isolation and space usage.
- Evaluate available installation space, venting options, and required clearances before choosing a model.
8. Safety Features And Certifications
- Look for overheat protection, flame monitoring, thermostatic control, and fail-safe shutdowns.
- Ensure proper exhaust routing outside the van and verify seals to prevent exhaust ingress.
- Check for basic compliance statements, wiring protection, and recommended installation practices in manuals.
9. Fuel Type And Availability
- Diesel heaters are convenient where diesel is readily available and often integrate with the vehicle fuel system. Consider storage and refilling logistics for remote travel.
- Propane-based or electric systems may suit different campervan configurations; match to your fuel availability and safety preferences.
10. Maintenance, Parts, And Support
- Assess the availability of replacement parts (filters, pumps, glow plugs) and whether the vendor provides clear service guidance.
- Regular maintenance intervals and easy access to serviceable components reduce long-term downtime.
Comparison Perspectives
- Small Campervans / Minimalists: Lower-output (5KW) all-in-one heaters or compact 5L tank units balance space and runtime.
- Cold-Climate Travelers: Higher-output (8KW) units or multiple heaters for larger vans to maintain comfortable temperatures quickly.
- Tech-Oriented Users: Models with Bluetooth/app control or programmable timers provide automation and convenience.
- Renters / Temporary Installations: Installation-free all-in-one units offer portability and minimal vehicle modification.