Do you plan on traveling in your van during the winter season? If yes, then you might want to consider finding a diesel heater for your van. Most people think blankets and duvets are enough for their camping trip.
However, having a diesel heater will ensure that you can keep yourself cozy and warm. When your van becomes an ice box, the diesel heater will ensure that you have a pleasant experience.
So, what is a diesel heater? How does a diesel heater work? And how can you find the best one for your camping trip? We’ll discuss all this and a lot more to help you find the best diesel heater for your van in this article.
Why Do You Need a Diesel Heater for Vans?
You can find a wide range of fuel sources to heat your camper or motorhome. Nevertheless, diesel heaters are a much better option because of the various benefits that they offer. Let’s go over the benefits you can get from a diesel car heater.
Efficient Heating for Year-Round Travel
Having a diesel heater in your van ensures that you can have access to efficient heating throughout the year. The diesel heater’s efficiency is the biggest benefit as it can maintain a pleasant temperature in the car. Therefore, it becomes an optimal option to have in all seasons.
Cost-Effective and Fuel-Efficient
Diesel heaters are renowned for their fuel efficiency as well. They are a much more cost-effective heating option for van life. The heaters that run on diesel will use the minimum power providing the maximum heat. Therefore, it is a cost-effective and fuel-efficient option than propane heaters.
Compact and Space-Saving Heating Solution
One of the biggest things that you need to keep in mind for a campervan is space. It is limited that is why you couldn’t afford to install a huge heater. A diesel heater for a campervan is designed keeping this thing in mind. They are compact, allowing you to make the most out of your space while keeping you warm.
Quiet Operation for Peaceful Sleep
Installing a diesel heater will ensure that you can easily enjoy a good night’s sleep. They are relatively less noisy than other types of heaters. As a result, you will be able to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep, which is vital for van lifers.
Versatility for Different Van Setups
Last but not least, the versatility of diesel heaters is simply exceptional. Vans come in different models and diesel heaters come in a variety of models to cater to other setups.
How Diesel Heaters Work in Vans?
So, how do diesel heaters work? Well, no rocket science goes behind the process. Here is a quick breakdown of the operations of a diesel heater.
Using the Diesel Heater
The diesel heater will first draw the fuel (diesel) from the tank to start the operation. A bonus point here is that there is no need to keep a separate fuel source for your heater. It would already have a sufficient amount of fuel in its tank.
Diesel Burning in Gas Chamber
The diesel goes into the gas chamber where it will mix with the air to ignite due to the combustion chamber’s pressure. It will increase the outer combustion chamber’s temperature which will get the heat exchanger warm. The external exhaust pipe will release all the harmful gasses so you don’t have to worry about that.
Pro Tip: Have a carbon monoxide monitor along with your diesel heater installation to keep a check on the air quality.
Reliance on the Fan
An RV diesel heater will have a dependence on the internal fan to pass the warm air. The fan will draw the air from the inside to circulate it in the heat exchanger. It will then blow out the warm air in the inside surroundings of your van.
Enjoy the Cozy Warm Air
After all this process is complete, the final part is that the diesel heater will pass on the resulting air into the warm. As a result, you will be able to enjoy a warm and cozy environment in your van.
Choosing the Right Diesel Heater for Your Van
Up till now, you would have a clear idea why you need to have diesel RV heaters. Now it is time to find the right diesel heater for your van. There are different things that you need to keep in mind to have the right diesel by your side.
Consideration of Van Size and Layout
As mentioned earlier, space is premium in a van. Therefore, you need to consider the size and layout of your van. It will help you ensure that the diesel heater doesn’t take up a lot of space while providing sufficient heating.
You should start by choosing the place where you want to have your diesel water heater campervan. Once you decide the area, you then need to find the relevant diesel heater according to that size. Make sure that it is capable enough to keep the inner part of the van warm and cozy.
Weather Conditions and Intended Travel Destinations
Another important factor that you need to consider is the weather conditions of the intended travel destination. If you plan on going to places at low altitudes, then you should be fine with a Chinese diesel heater.
However, if you plan on going on travel to high altitudes (over 3000m), then you might as well consider going for high-power heaters. The heater for high altitude should come with a better warranty and longevity.
Budget and Fuel Availability
Budget considerations are essential. You don’t need to only take into consideration the cost of buying a heater, but their associated costs as well. Most diesel heater fuel consumption is around .1 and 0.6 liters of diesel per hour.
Therefore, it is an efficient heating solution that you can have installed in your van. You should also consider the cost of installation and other things when budgeting for the diesel heater.
Noise Level and Power Source
The last thing that you want is a diesel heater that is quite noisy and won’t let you have a good night’s sleep. So, you must check on the noise level before choosing the diesel heater. Also, it’s essential to consider your power source options and compatibility with your van’s configuration.
Some heaters would have a dedicated power source, such as a separate battery. On the other hand, others might draw power from your vehicle’s alternator when the engine is running.
Installation and Safety Tips for Van Diesel Heaters
The installation and safe operation of a diesel heater in your van are paramount. It is better to get an expert for the diesel heater installation. But if you plan on doing it on your own, then you should keep the following things in mind for the van diesel heater installation.
Proper Ventilation and Air Intake
Before you start with the installation, you need to take proper care of the proper ventilation and air intake. This is because inadequate ventilation can lead to reduced heating efficiency. More critically, it would also lead to the accumulation of carbon monoxide, which is a lethal gas.
Therefore, check that your heater’s air intake is free from any obstructions. Plus, it should be positioned in an area with access to fresh, outside air. As a result, it would provide a consistent flow of oxygen to the heater. Furthermore, you should also ensure to seal and position the exhaust system in a manner that avoids any contact with combustible materials.
Installation Guidelines and Best Practices
Properly installing the diesel heater can significantly impact its performance and your overall safety. So, you should choose a safe location and ensure proper diesel heater mounting to prevent movement during transit. It is vital to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for mounting.
Additionally, check that the fuel system is free from leaks and that the electrical connections are properly made and insulated. Apart from that, you should also keep all combustible materials at a safe distance from the heater, such as:
- Flammable items
- Clothing
- Bedding
Maintenance and Cleaning Requirements
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your diesel heater operating efficiently and safely. You should regularly clean the combustion chamber, heat exchanger, and exhaust components. Plus, it is also important to periodically inspect all components for signs of wear or damage. If there are any worn-out parts, then you might consider replacing them promptly.
Most importantly, you need to ensure that the fuel system, including the fuel tank and fuel lines, is free from leaks. Additionally, the ventilation system should also be checked from time to time. You need to ensure that air intake and exhaust pipes are clear and free from obstructions.
Safety Precautions to Prevent Accidents in a Confined Space
A lot of people have this question in my mind: are diesel heaters safe indoors? Well, they are but you still need to carry out some precautionary measures since your van is a confidence space. For instance, installing a carbon monoxide detector inside your van is vital.
This device can alert you to dangerous levels of this odorless gas, ensuring your safety. Moreover, you should keep a fire extinguisher in your van and have a clear, accessible emergency exit. Both these things are vital in case of a malfunction or an unforeseen event that may compromise safety.
Diesel Heater Accessories for Van Life
Having the right set of diesel heater accessories is vital for your van life. These accessories can enhance the efficiency, functionality, and overall enjoyment of your van. Here is what you can get for the diesel heater that you install for heating the campervan:
- Fuel tanks and connectors
- Insulation and heat distribution
- Remote control options
- Power sources and compatibility with van setups
- Thermostats and timers for convenience
These accessories will allow you to enjoy a streamlined journey. Not only will it increase convenience and efficiency, but also help you maximize your heater’s performance.
FAQs about Diesel Heaters for Vans
Are diesel heaters safe to use in vans?
You might wonder: are diesel heaters safe? Well, the answer is yes. If they are installed correctly, then it would push all the dangerous gasses out. All in all, diesel heaters come with all safety standards incorporated in them.
What types of diesel heaters are available for vans?
There are various types of diesel heaters available for vans, such as air heaters, water heaters, and combination heaters. You can choose the one that is suitable according to your needs and preferences.
Can I install a diesel heater in my van myself, or do I need a professional?
Yes. If you believe you can install it properly by following the manufacturer’s guidelines, then you should consider going for it. But if you don’t, then you can get an expert to help with it.
Summing up
The purpose of this article is to help you find answers to questions like how diesel heaters work, how to hook up a diesel heater, etc. It will ensure that you can make the most out of your camping trip. So, if you are looking to get a diesel heater for yourself, then you might as well start looking for one.
